For existing timber structures that require renovation or modification, the fast identification of critical zones that need special attention, further inspection, or reinforcement is of major importance. This article proposes a simple and efficient methodology that allows, crossed with other assessment tools, to identify these critical zones. The methodology is based on a dimensionless reformulation of the eurocode 5 design ULS and SLS critera, allowing to draw “Zd curves” that avoid long calculations, quickly highlight the structural capacity of the beam, and point out which criterion prevails (bending, shear, short term and long term deflection). This approach is thus likely to provide an efficient and simple tool in order to facilitate the discussion between the stakeholders of a renovation project, whatever their global assessment methodology.
Descamps, T., Monhonval, M., & Latteur, P. (2018). An assessment methodology for timber beams in a restoration context, based on a dimensionless formulation of EC5 design criteria. International Journal of Architectural Heritage, Volume 12(12), 726-733. https://doi.org/10.1080/15583058.2018.1442527 (Original work published 2018)