Equivalent-frame model for elastic behaviour of cross-laminated timber walls with openings

An equivalent-frame model (EFM) applicable to cross-laminated timber (CLT) shear walls with window or door openings was developed. Two layouts were considered: hold-downs (HDs) placed at both ends of each wall segment or only at the ends of the wall. The model is the first of its kind to be proposed for CLT shear walls subject to lateral loading. Numerical modelling was performed to compare the global elastic stiffness and internal actions obtained from the EFM and a two-dimensional model using area elements. Comparisons between the two models and with published experimental results were undertaken. A reasonable fit was found between the models for the global elastic stiffness and tensile load in the HD. However, larger discrepancies were obtained for the shear load and bending moment in the top lintel. A study of the effect of openings on the base shear showed a higher reduction in base shear for higher slenderness ratios for both the wall segment and lintel. Little to no significant difference was found between using the single and double HDs. Reasonable agreement was found between the results of the proposed model and experimental tests conducted by other researchers.