AS 1684.4-2010 (2012) PDF

Full title and description

AS 1684.4-2010 — Residential timber‑framed construction, Part 4: Simplified — Non‑Cyclonic Areas. A prescriptive (simplified) timber‑framing code that gives building practice, member sizing, bracing and fixing requirements for conventional one‑ and two‑storey timber framed Class 1 and Class 10 buildings in non‑cyclonic wind classifications (N1 and N2).

Abstract

This part of AS 1684 provides a simplified, user‑friendly set of procedures and span/bracing tables for designers, builders and tradespeople to select timber member sizes, determine bracing requirements and specify fixings for low wind (non‑cyclonic) areas. It is intended for conventional light timber framing and limits (e.g. building width, storey height and roof pitch) apply to maintain the simplified approach.

General information

• Status: Superseded (revised by AS 1684.4:2024).
• Publication date: 21 June 2010 (AS 1684.4-2010).
• Publisher: Standards Australia.
• ICS / categories: 91.080.20 — Timber structures (Construction / building structures).
• Edition / version: 4th edition (2010); amended by AS 1684.4-2010/Amdt 1-2012.
• Number of pages: 194 pages.

Scope

Specifies prescriptive building practice and requirements for the selection, placement and fixing of structural elements used in timber‑framed Class 1 and Class 10 buildings (as defined in the BCA/NCC) where wind classification is N1 or N2. The Standard also applies to alterations and additions within its stated limitations (maximum building widths, wall heights and roof pitches as defined in clause limitations).

Key topics and requirements

• Prescriptive span tables and member selection for conventional light‑frame timber construction.
• Bracing types, bracing unit calculations and minimum bracing layout for N1 and N2 wind zones.
• Fixing schedules and connection detailing (nails, screws, straps and plates) for typical wall, floor and roof elements.
• Limitations on application: building width and wall height limits, maximum roof pitch for Part 4 (simplified rules) and number of storeys (one or two storeys conventional framing).
• Amendment corrections to figures and detail illustrations (AS 1684.4-2010/Amdt 1-2012).

Typical use and users

Used by residential builders, carpenters, frame contractors, building designers, certifiers and technicians who need a prescriptive, on‑site friendly code for timber framing in non‑cyclonic areas. Engineers commonly use AS 1684 Part 1 and Part 2 for more complex or higher wind‑classification designs, while Part 4 is chosen where simplified, table‑based solutions are appropriate.

Related standards

AS 1684 is a multi‑part series — Part 1 (design criteria) and Parts 2 and 3 (other prescriptive regions, including cyclonic areas). AS 1684.4-2010 and its 2012 amendment have been revised by AS 1684.4:2024; users should check the current edition for the latest requirements and any changes to scope, tables or limitations.

Keywords

timber framing, residential, bracing, span tables, member sizing, fixings, non‑cyclonic, N1, N2, Standards Australia, AS 1684, simplified code.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: A prescriptive Australian Standard (AS 1684.4-2010) providing simplified guidance for residential timber‑framed construction in non‑cyclonic (low wind) areas.

Q: What does it cover?

A: Member sizing (span tables), bracing requirements, fixing schedules, and typical framing details for Class 1 and Class 10 buildings in wind classifications N1 and N2, within the stated dimensional and geometric limits of the document.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Builders, carpenters, framing contractors, building designers and certifiers who need straightforward, prescriptive rules for conventional one‑ and two‑storey timber framed dwellings and associated class 10 structures.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: AS 1684.4-2010 (including Amendment 1, 2012) has been superseded — it was revised and replaced by AS 1684.4:2024; users should refer to the 2024 edition for the most current requirements.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: Yes — AS 1684 is a series on Residential Timber‑Framed Construction. Part 1 covers design criteria; Parts 2, 3 and 4 provide prescriptive practice for different regions/complexities (Part 4 is the simplified non‑cyclonic part).

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Timber framing, bracing, span tables, non‑cyclonic, N1/N2, fixing, residential construction, Standards Australia, AS 1684.4.