13 August 2017 — The Masonry Society’s Design Practices Committee has incorporated numerous revisions to the Direct Design Handbook for Masonry Structures (TMS 403) from its previous version published in 2013. As part of the review and approval process, TMS 403 is provided for public review and comment.

View the Direct Design Handbook Draft (Revised June, 21 2017)

Major updates to this edition of TMS 403 include:

  • Updating the masonry design and detailing requirements in accordance with the 2013 Edition of TMS 402/ACI 530.1/ASCE 5.
  • Updating the loading requirements in accordance with ASCE 7-10.
  • Reorganizing the standard into a side-by-side standard/commentary format.
  • Removing many of the limitations contained in previous editions of TMS 403 to allow for greater use and application of this standard. Where permitted by TMS 402, Building Code Requirements for Masonry Structures, the draft provisions of TMS 403 can be used to design:
    • Concrete and clay masonry structures.
    • Multi-story masonry buildings.
    • Alternative values for f’m (specified masonry compressive strength).
    • Single wythe and multi-wythe assemblies varying in thickness from 6 inches to 14 inches.
    • Reinforcing bar sizes varying from No. 3 to No. 8 bars.
    • Type N, S, and M mortars where permitted by code.
    • Rigid and flexible diaphragm systems.

Click here to submit comments or for more information.

The public comment period is now open and will close on September 10, 2017, at midnight Mountain Time.