Allowable Stress Design vs. Strength Design – A Masonry Cage Fight

The TMS 402, Building Code Requirements for Masonry Structures, has two design methods: allowable stress design (ASD) and strength design (SD). This presentation will compare the differences, advantages, and disadvantages of each design method, with the comparison being made through examples. Examples will include beams, pilasters, bearing walls, and shear walls. Both ease of design and amount of required reinforcement will be considered. Design tips and shortcuts will be provided for both methods.