Book excerpt: A concise guide to the structural design of low-rise buildings in cold-formed steel, reinforced masonry, and structural timber This practical reference discusses the types of low-rise building structural systems, outlines the design process, and explains how to determine structural loadings and load paths pertinent to low-rise buildings. Characteristics and properties of materials used in the construction of cold-formed steel, reinforced masonry, and structural timber buildings are described along with design requirements. The book also provides an overview of noncomposite and composite open-web joist floor systems. Design code requirements referenced by the 2009 International Building Code are used throughout. This is an ideal resource for structural engineering students, professionals, and those preparing for licensing examinations. Structural Design of Low-Rise Buildings in Cold-Formed Steel, Reinforced Masonry, and Structural Timber covers: Low-rise building systems Loads and load paths in low-rise buildings Design of cold-formed steel structures Structural design of reinforced masonry Design of structural timber Structural design with open-web joists