ABSTRACT
This chapter presents the results of an experimental study of third-point flexural loading tests on full-scale wood beams with artificially induced kerfs to investigate the flexural resistance of such beams. It focuses on the flexural resistance of wood beams with lengthwise checks. Checked beams with and without self-tapping screws driven perpendicular to the crack surfaces were tested and compared. Beams retrofitted with self-tapping screws driven perpendicular to the kerfs were also tested for identification of the most efficient screwing pattern and spacing. Self-tapping screws turn out to be a desirable alternative for their high retrofitting efficiency, invisibility and fast construction. Research has been reported on retrofitting timber connections and members using self-tapping screws with good results. The specimens were categorized into three types, including the intact beams, checked beams, and checked beams retrofitted by self-tapping screws. The influences of the checks and self-tapping screws used for retrofitting purposes on the resistance of the checked beams were studied.
