Vertical Tie Beam Stiffnesses

The earthquake code states that vertical tie beams are suitable for use at building corners, wall intersections, and beside doors and windows, but does not specify how they should be considered in calculations. Therefore, there is no obligation to consider the stiffness of vertical tie beams according to the earthquake code or the risky building regulation.

The program assumes the user may not want to consider vertical tie beam stiffness, so when a vertical tie beam is drawn, the program does not automatically split the walls into separate parts. If vertical tie beam stiffnesses are to be considered, it may be appropriate to draw the walls in two pieces so they do not pass through the vertical tie beam.

If the "Consider vertical tie beam stiffnesses in calculation" option is checked, the stiffnesses of vertical tie beams are taken into account. The program considers vertical tie beams as frame finite elements and includes them in the structural analysis model. The stiffness contribution of vertical tie beams can increase the overall lateral stiffness of the structure.

When vertical tie beam stiffnesses are considered, the wall shear force distribution may change, and some walls may receive less force while others receive more. Users should evaluate whether considering vertical tie beam stiffnesses is appropriate for their specific project based on the actual construction details and code requirements.