This website is best viewed on a newer browser than the one you are using. Learn about upgrading your browser (opens in a new window/tab)
Welcome to BRANZ Build. Skip to main content.
Practical how-to articles for builders and designers showing good industry practice and interpretation of the NZ Building Code and standards.
Showing results 1-10 of 33
Order by:
By Angela Liu, Roger Shelton – 1 April 2021, Build 183
While the bracing requirements in NZS 3604:2011 Timber-framed buildings suit most buildings, the distribution rules of clause 5.4.7 are too lenient for some complex designs. During earthquakes, some Building Code-compliant buildings may move or flex, causing extensive damage. BRANZ research found which buildings are affected and suggests changes.
By David Carradine – 1 August 2021, Build 185
Let-in plywood bracing has a long history of use. Some designers and manufacturers specify it, but some councils don’t permit it. BRANZ has found it doesn’t seem to affect structural integrity and suggests ways to resolve the uncertainty.
By Tom Edhouse – 1 August 2013, Build 137
Bracing calculations are a little different for walls that run at angles to the bracing lines, but it’s still important to know what they contribute to the bracing of the building.
By Tom Edhouse – 1 August 2015, Build 149
Working out the spacing and capacity of bracing lines is an integral part of the design of timber-framed buildings. Here’s what NZS 3604:2011 has to say.
By Alide Elkink – 1 December 2014, Build 145
Judging by the number of calls to the BRANZ Helpline, there’s some confusion around bracing requirements for monopitch roofs. Here, we sort out the issue.
By Graeme Beattie – 1 October 2014, Build 144
Following feedback on the previous article on bracing ratings (Build 141, pages 39–40), we have rounded the ratings for use on existing and renovated walls for a more user-friendly table.
By Alide Elkink – 1 December 2018, Build 169
The beauty of dragon ties is that they provide extra lateral support to an external wall, allowing a bigger room size before a ceiling diaphragm is needed. There are some rules around their use though.
By Alide Elkink – 1 December 2013, Build 139
NZS 3604:2011 Timber-framed buildings has two types of anchor options for fixing bottom plates to concrete floors. We review the options and requirements.
By Trevor Pringle – 1 December 2018, Build 169
More complex building designs may include wings with shared walls that have extra considerations for bracing demand.
By Trevor Pringle – 1 August 2018, Build 167
Most new chimneys are just a chimney shape that encloses the flue, unlike traditional solid chimneys. We look at some of the construction, fixing and bracing requirements for both options.
