Software tools ease lumber selection, specification

s coNSTRUCrloN ACTIVITY slowly recovers, more lumber customers will be seeking right western help in lumber identifying the product for a construction project. Two software design tools can make that job easier and aid wholesalers and retailers in helping customers make the right selections.

The Western Lumber Design Suite and the Lumber DesignEasy software utilities deliver information on western lumber grades, spans and other technical information with just a few clicks. The design utilities, which work in concert with Microsoft Excel, are available free of charge from Western Wood Products Association.

The Western Lumber Design Suite is a full-featured design tool that provides calculations for horizontal framing (beams and joists), vertical framing (posts and studs), and wood-towood shear connections.

Calculations are available for the major sizes and grades of western lumber products available in the market today. All calculations follow the 2005 National Design Specification for Wood Construction (NDS).