Braced framing is a construction technique using posts and cross bracing. This technique provides greater rigidity and strength, which aid in resisting wind and earthquake forces. Such framing is typically found in multiple-story homes and steel construction. The main benefit of this type of construction is that during situations of high stress, the frame can stretch and move without breaking. Most braced frames are concentric in nature. This means that where members intersect, one member passes through the center of the other. Concentric braced frames can be further classified as “special” or “ordinary.” Ordinary concentric braced frames do not have extensive rules defining their construction and are typically used in areas where earthquakes and high winds are not an issue. Special concentric based frames have considerable design requirements and are used in areas with greater seismic risk.
