Vibrational serviceability design method for timber floors according to Eurocode 5

Abstract

Human-induced vibrations of timber floors are considered to be a serviceability issue that primarily relates to discomfort of occupants. These vibrations are particularly problematic because they happen frequently and cannot be isolated. Vibration serviceability of timber floors is becoming more relevant due to increased demand for building new floor systems with larger spans. There are a number of different design methods with regard to vibration problems and there are a number of studies developed to improve these methods. This paper presents the design method for vibrational serviceability of timber floors proposed in Eurocode 5 Part 1-1. The vibrational parameters which need to be checked include fundamental frequency, unit point load deflection and unit impulse velocity response. The criteria defined in Eurocode 5 are regulated in the National annexes of each member country. Presentation and comparison of different design practices with regard to vibration performance of timber floors according to Eurocode 5 among European countries are made. Even though Eurocode 5 has given general criteria for vibrational serviceability design of timber floors, the design equations and design limits vary largely from country to country due to different tolerances for vibration disturbance as well as different construction practices. Design rules for human-induced floor vibrations in the current Eurocode 5 are predicated based on a correct philosophy but it remains to be demonstrated that these rules with some modifications can be applied beyond the context of traditional solid timber joist floors with decking.