AWC’s 2018 National Design Specification® (NDS®) for Wood Construction is referenced in US building codes and used to design wood structures worldwide. This article will highlight the changes in the 2018 NDS and 2018 NDS Supplement relative to previous editions and provide an overview of the standard.

Learning Objectives:

• Describe the significant changes between the 2012 and 2018 NDS and NDS Supplement.
• Recognize the updated language relating to cross laminated timber and new CLT adjustment factors.
• Specify the relevant new provisions for fastener design.
• Identify the changes for designing wood members exposed to fire and utilize it to predict the fire resistance.