Empirical lateral systems design

Lateral systems for building structures include shear wall systems, braced frames, and moment-resisting, or rigid, frames. Shear wall systems have been described briefly in Chapter 3.

The recommendations given in this chapter apply to zones of moderate seismicity (Seismic Design Category A or B according to ASCE 7-10; ASCE, 2010) and moderate winds (3 s gust ≤115 mph). Although the recommendations in this chapter may include some guidelines for increased strength against greater wind and earthquake forces, zones susceptible to large-scale earthquakes, and zones subject to hurricane force winds are excluded from the principal recommendations of this chapter. In any event, the rules given in this book are meant only as a guide to the initial layout of a building and its lateral-force-resisting system, and cannot be considered a substitute for competent engineering.