Investigating the structural response of log walls to lateral loading: A parametric study of geometric and material parameters

Abstract

This paper investigates the structural response of log walls commonly employed in log construction. Finite element models are validated with experimental work for predicting the lateral performance of log walls. Parametric studies are carried out assessing the effect of friction coefficient, opening ratio, and reinforcement methods, on the initial lateral stiffness and the lateral resistance of the log wall. The study also examines the response of reinforced log walls with window and door openings and indicates that including such openings in the wall reduces initial in-plane stiffness by 8% to 18%.