our home > system > structural systems > transport issues

The house is constructed in two modules that will join when the house is erected on site. Once joined, the modules will help brace each other.

During transport, however, each module must be self supporting. To support the roofs, a marriage wall was designed. The marriage wall consists of a central beam that runs longitudinally along the interior edge of each module. This central beam is then supported by columns at each end wall and columns near the center of the house. The columns and beams are composed of parallel strand lumber (PSL).

The major transport concerns include wind loads, vibration, and racking that will occur during the trip from Auburn to Washington, DC. Special efforts were made to insure that all components were securely fastened to resist uplift wind loads while traveling at highway speeds. Also, temporary interior bracing will be installed to help resist racking and vibration loads placed on the houses during shipping.