APA Performance-Rated Rim Board - Canadian Limit States Design

Rim board is a critical structural component in modern wood-frame construction, yet selecting and installing the right product requires precise technical knowledge. As engineered wood I-joists have become the standard in floor framing, traditional lumber rim board is no longer compatible, creating a need for performance-rated engineered wood alternatives that meet Canadian building requirements.

This publication is designed for: engineers, designers, builders, contractors

This publication provides technical guidance for the selection, design, and installation of APA Performance Rated Rim Board under Canadian Limit States Design (LSD) standards. It discusses product types and sizes, connection and fastener requirements, factored resistance values, and application-specific design considerations — all referenced to Canadian codes and standards including CSA O86 and the National Building Code of Canada.

Key sections include:

• What is a rim board? Product overview and materials

• Standard sizes for APA Performance Rated Rim Board

• Connection requirements

• Factored resistances for use in Canada (metric and imperial units)

• Specified edgewise strengths and modulus of elasticity

• Maximum limit states factored loads for spanning openings

• Application notes: headers, fire blocking, high lateral load transfer, and combined vertical loads

Published by APA — The Engineered Wood Association.