A hold down is a steel connection used in timber construction to anchor timber elements, preventing upward movement or lifting from horizontal forces such as wind and earthquakes. Essential for Mass Timber and light frame structures, they are typically used in timber-to-timber or timber-to-concrete connections to secure components to the foundation or adjacent elements.
Hold downs are crucial for:
- Structural Stability: By anchoring timber elements, hold downs provide stability in high-stress conditions, preventing uplift and enhancing resilience.
- Wind and Earthquake Resistance: In high-wind or seismic zones, hold downs are vital for resisting horizontal forces, maintaining structural integrity, and preventing detachment.
At Ergodomus Timber Engineering, we specialize in earthquake-resistant design and have extensive experience engineering hold downs for stability and safety in seismic regions.
