STATIC STRENGTH OF SIMULATED CEILING AND FLOOR CONNECTIONS IN MODULAROR MANUFACTURED HOUSING

The resistance of joints in timber structures subjected to lateral, wi thdrawal, or compressive forces depends on the properties of the faste ners and connected materials as well as the filler material between co nnected members. A total of 500 joints analogous to those found in the exterior walls of modular or manufactured housing was tested. Our obj ectives were to determine baseline joint property data and compare the strength of joints with gypsum, carpet, or floor tile filler material s to the baseline data. Comparisons were made between lateral, withdra wal, and compressive joint strength values. Filler material influenced the compressive and lateral strength of joints more than it influence d withdrawal strength. Withdrawal strength is shown to relate directly to the depth of penetration of the fastener into a holding member.