Structural Performance of Wood in Timber Housing

Mechanical Performance of Timber in House Construction

Timber construction has been gaining prominence in Europe, driven by environmental concerns, energy efficiency, and fast construction methods. rusticasa^® has invested in laboratory technical testing, numerical modelling, and European certification (ETA) to ensure the structural reliability of its building systems.


1. Applicable Regulatory Framework

rusticasa^® systems comply with the following standards and regulations:

• EN 1995-1-1 (Eurocode 5): structural design of timber;
• EN 408:2010+A1:2012: test methods for mechanical properties;
• EN 14080 and EN 15497: applicable to glued laminated timber;
• Regulation (EU) No. 305/2011: construction products regulation;
• ETAG 007: kits for prefabricated timber buildings.

2. Experimental Testing Performed

rusticasa^® systems have been tested by independent institutions such as Itecons, INIA, and the University of Minho.

Highlights include:

a) Shear Strength and Joint Stiffness

According to report PRD072/22 (Itecons), bolted connections demonstrated:

• Maximum shear load: 12.2 to 16.9 kN
• Stiffness: 1800 to 3100 N/mm

b) Delamination Resistance

Delamination tests (EN 14080) show industrial gluing with less than 10% delaminated area, complying with the standard's criteria.

c) Characterisation of Cryptomeria Wood

Tests on Cryptomeria japonica revealed:

• Bending strength: 18–24 N/mm²
• Modulus of elasticity: ~9500 N/mm²

d) Numerical Modelling and Seismic Performance

The ISOLAM-CRIPTOLAM study demonstrated high stiffness in structural planes, suitable for seismic zones.


3. European Technical Assessments (ETA)

The ETAs confirm the conformity of rusticasa^® systems:

• ETA 18/0984: multilayer panels with cork
• ETA 24/0070: glued laminated cryptomeria timber
• ETA 22/0889: timber frame system with insulation

The ETAs certify:

• Mechanical resistance (compression, bending, shear)
• Reaction to fire of materials and products
• Durability and dimensional stability
• Compliance with Eurocode 5 and the CPR

4. Application in Structural Design

Based on the test results and ETAs, engineers can:

• Apply the characteristic values in structural calculations;
• Design connections based on real test data for load and stiffness;
• Use finite element software to simulate seismic and thermal performance.

5. Conclusion

Properly engineered and tested timber offers a safe, sustainable, and modern construction solution. Backed by robust technical evidence, rusticasa^® ensures that its systems:

• Are mechanically reliable;
• Comply with the most demanding European standards;
• Respond effectively to requirements for safety, comfort, and long-term performance.

Technical References

• EN 1995-1-1: Eurocode 5 – Design of timber structures
• EN 408:2010+A1:2012 – Determination of mechanical properties
• ETA 18/0984, ETA 24/0070, ETA 22/0889 – European Technical Assessments (Rusticasa)
• Technical reports from ITECONS, INIA and University of Minho (2021–2024)
• rusticasa.com/documentacao