It has been substantially revised to take account of changes since the last edition, nearly 20 years ago, and to include the latest revision of British Standard BS 5268-2 : 2002, which has brought design concepts closer to European practice and Eurocode 5.

New features of the Third Edition include:

• revised information on bolt values including a consideration of improved performance using 8.8 grade bolts
• new chapters on composite sections and Eurocode 5 on structural timber
• new developments in materials and products
• horizontal roof and floor diaphragms
• vertical shear walls

The manual continues to provide extensive tables and coefficients that will save the practising engineer many design hours. It will also be of interest as a reference for civil engineering undergraduates and to timber manufacturers. Whilst the design examples in the book are based on BS 5268, a large part of the content will have international appeal, whatever code or standard is being used.

From reviews of the last edition

"the complete design manual ... a 'must'"
–Timber Trades Journal

"the manual continues its established position as an authoritative reference and in providing numerous time saving design aids."
–Institute of Wood Science Journal