LAUSR

Abstract Wood I-joists are increasing being used as floor and roof joists in the construction of commercial and residential buildings, due to their light weight, high strength, easy handing, and good durability. Web holes and flanges notch are often made in the joists to allow passage of ventilation systems, electrical wiring, and service pipes, but it is strictly restricted by joist manufactures. If not handled improperly, it is very easy to produce the crack growth and eventually result in catastrophic damage. This paper presents a comprehensive review on experimental studies investigating the mechanical performance of wood I-joists web holes and flange notches. The effect of flange-notches and web-holes on the structural performance (e.g., ultimate load carrying capacity, shear strength and stiffness) of unreinforced I-joists are discussed and typical failure modes are described. Reinforcement techniques may be required to improve the mechanical behavior of deficient joists, and the existing design approaches are presented. Based on the findings from this review, recommendations are proposed for future works, which can provide a reference for further research on wood I-joists.