Low-cost high-quality roof construction with round timber
Date
2020-05-03
Authors
Lusambo, Edward
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Zambia
Abstract
Pole timbers provide an inexpensive source of structural timber in many developing countries and are widely
used for traditional buildings. The use of round timber has considerable potential in comparison to the use of
sawn timber because of its higher structural strength and its low material cost. There are, however, problems
associated with working with non-uniform sections and also with jointing. The traditional methods ofjointing
using sisal rope or strips of bark in rural areas do not permit the full strength of the poles to be utilised.
Improved low cost methods of connecting poles could lead to stronger structures and more economical use of
materials. This paper reviews aspects relating to the use of round timber and describes the design and fabrication
of some low-cost, yet high-quality structural systems suitable for roof structures of modern buildings.
Keywords: Round timber, Roof structures, Connections, Jointing methods
Description
Keywords
Timber