Civil Engineering Association

This Wood Frame Construction Manual Workbook (WFCM Workbook) provides a design example, typical checklist, and background information related to design of a wood-frame structure in accordance with AF&PA’s Wood Frame Construction Manual (WFCM) for One- and Two-Family Dwellings, 2001 Edition. The design example uses plans from a 2-story residence designed to resist wind, seismic and snow loads. Typically, these load conditions do not all apply to the same structure (e.g., usually only 2 of these conditions are evaluated depending on the geographic location and local building code requirements). However, all three load conditions are evaluated in this example to show the broader range of applicability of the WFCM. The authority having jurisdiction should be consulted for applicable load conditions. The design example is based primarily on prescriptive provisions found in Chapter 3 of the WFCM. References to page numbers, tables and section numbers are for those found in the 2001 WFCM, unless noted otherwise. Additional engineering provisions or alternate solutions are provided where necessary. See the American Wood Council website for an in-depth overview of the WFCM. While building codes (and the WFCM) are organized based on the construction sequence (foundation to roof), this design example is organized based on the typical design sequence (roof to foundation). The Association invites and welcomes comments, inquiries and suggestions relative to the provisions of this document.