AWC’s 2015 National Design Specification (NDS) for Wood Construction is referenced in US building codes and used to design wood structures worldwide. This article will highlight changes in the 2015 NDS and 2015 NDS Supplement relative to previous editions and provide an overview of the standard. The primary change to the 2015 NDS is incorporation of design provisions for cross-laminated timber (CLT).

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify significant changes between the 2012 and 2015 NDS and 2015 NDS Supplement.
2. Locate updated language relating to Structural Composite Lumber.
3. Discuss relevant new provisions for Cross-Laminated Timber.
4. Locate revised language related to withdrawal of fasteners with a tapered tip.

Funding provided in part by the Softwood Lumber Board.