Application of Adhesive in Light-Frame Roof Structures and Evaluation of Their Wind-Resistance Performance

Date of Award

8-2025

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

Department

Engineering and Applied Sciences

First Advisor

Xiaoyun Shao, Ph.D.

Second Advisor

Upul Attanayake, Ph.D.

Third Advisor

Jinseok Kim, Ph.D.

Fourth Advisor

Baljinder Kaur Saini, Ph.D.

Keywords

Construction adhesive, finite element analysis, light-frame-roof, structural enginnering, structural optimization, wind loadings

Abstract

The critical role of roofs in protecting light-frame wood residential buildings from strong wind events continuously reminds us the importance of understanding their wind resistance performance. Roof-to-wall connections (RTWCs) and sheathing-to-truss connections (STTCs) are often identified as the weakest components in the vertical load path. While prior research has shown that applying adhesives to RTWCs can improve performance, the role of adhesive-enhanced STTCs and their system-level implications remain insufficiently addressed.

This dissertation explores the effectiveness of adhesive-enhanced STTCs using a combined experimental and numerical approach. A series of monotonic uplift tests were conducted on STTC specimens with various adhesive configurations. Load–displacement behavior was characterized, and analytical models were developed to capture the nonlinear connection response. Statistical distributions were employed to represent variability in strength and stiffness parameters. A finite element model of structural roof panels was developed to evaluate the impact of each connection type on uplift performance. The simulation results revealed clear distinctions in behavior and failure modes among the different configurations, highlighting the structural advantages of adhesive application.

Building on these results, a full-scale three-dimensional roof system was modeled using Abaqus, incorporating realistic geometry and connection details. The model was validated and used to assess the structural response under monotonic and time-history wind loading derived from current tornado design standards. The findings emphasized the importance of connection stiffness in governing failure modes and demonstrated the potential for shifting critical failures away from connections through targeted adhesive use. This research provides a comprehensive framework for optimizing and assessing adhesive-based roof connection design, contributing to the development of more resilient light-frame wood roof systems under wind loading.

Access Setting

Dissertation-Abstract Only

Restricted to Campus until

8-1-2027

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