NBC 203 2015 Guidelines For Earthquake Resistant Building Construction Low Strength Masonry

NEPAL NATIONAL BUILDING CODE
NBC 203: 2015
GUIDELINES FOR EARTHQUAKE

RESISTANT BUILDING CONSTRUCTION:
LOW STRENGTH MASONRY
This publication represents a standard of good practice and therefore
takes the form of recommendations. Compliance with it does not confer
immunity from relevant legal requirements, including bylaws
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Government of Nepal
Ministry of Urban Development
Department of Urban Development and Building Construction
Babar Mahal, Kathmandu, Nepal
2072
i
Preface
The first version of this Nepal Standard (NNBC 203: 2015 GUIDELINES ON: LOAD BEARING
MASONRY) was prepared during 1993 as part of a project to prepare a National Building Code for
Nepal.
In 1988 the Ministry of Housing and Physical Planning (MHPP) (now Ministry of Urban Development),
conscious of the growing needs of Nepal's urban and shelter sectors, requested technical assistance from
the United Nations Development Programme and their executing agency, United Nations Centre for
Human Settlements(UNCHS).
A programme of Policy and Technical Support was set up within the Ministry (UNDP Project
NEP/88/054) and a number of activities was undertaken within this framework.
The 1988 earthquake in Nepal, and the resulting deaths and damage to both housing and schools again
drew attention to the need for changes and improvement in the then building construction and design
methods.
At that time, Nepal had not had any regulations or documents of its own setting out either requirements
or good practice for achieving satisfactory strength in buildings.
In late 1991 the MHPP and UNCHS requested proposals for the development of such regulations and
documents from international organizations in response to terms of reference prepared by a panel of
experts.
The first version was then prepared by the subcontractor's team working within the Department of
Building, the team including members of the Department and the MHPP. As part of the proposed
management and implementation strategy, it was prepared so as to conform with the general
presentation requirements of the Nepal Bureau of Standards and Metrology.
However for several years after the 1st version of NNBC 203 was published, the enormous positive
development in materials, technological development along with significant development in research
and scientific methods and the enormous changes in design of structures and construction practices
have been felt to be incorporated along with the positive feedback from the professionals from the field
of design and construction.
Likewise under the Earthquake Risk Reduction Recovery Preparedness (ERRRP) Program for Nepal,
Ministry of Physical Planning and Works, Government of Nepal through (UNDP/ERRRP-Project:
NEP/07/010), a set of recommendations for updating this code was received on April 10, 2009,
submitted by MULTI Disciplinary Consultants (P) Ltd., K.D. Associates (P) Ltd., Khwopa
Engineering College.
Thus, recognizing the need, the Building Construction Management and Improvement Committee
(BCMIC) on January 7, 2011 decided to carry out a building code update programme for fiscal year
2011/12 and accordingly consultants DIGICON/ RND JV were assigned through a contract for the
update of this code. A panel of inhouse and external expert committee was also formed for review
and suggestions during the update process.
In this way, the revised form of “NNBC 203: 1994 Guidelines for Earthquake Resistant Building
Construction: Low Strength Masonry” resulted into “NNBC 203: 2015 Guidelines for Earthquake
Resistant Building Construction: Low Strength Masonry” and as per the 12th meeting of BCMIC,
decision no. 4, it was forwarded to Ministry of Urban Development (MOUD) for approval. Then on
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December 21, 2015 it received approval from the Prime Minister (also Minister of MOUD) and was
published in Nepal Gazette on November 14, 2016.
Significant changes in this first revision include:
1. The provisions for construction of “two storied load-bearing brick masonry buildings
constructed in mud mortar” has been shifted from NNBC 202 to NNBC 203: 2015 Guidelines
for Earthquake Resistant Building Construction: Low Strength Masonry.
2. Limitations to this code is elaborated in detail to the previous one.
3. High strength bars- 550 is removed and high strength deformed bars-Fe 415 has been
incorporated instead.
4. Dressed stones has been emphasized as more preferable construction material for stone
masonry load bearing structure.
5. Figures have been updated for more clarity.
6. Strip footing width in table 6.1 are updated based on design calculations and minimum
requirements.
Efforts have been made to make the code much simpler and free of confusions such that there is no
conflict with other codes. It is further expected that this revision addresses all the issues related with
the previous edition.
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TABLE OF CONTENS
Preface .................................................................................................................................................... i
0. Foreword ........................................................................................................................................ 1
0.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................................... 1
0.2 Objective ................................................................................................................................... 1
0.3 Background.................................................................................................................................1
0.4 Applicability.............................................................................................................................. 1
0.5 Interpretation...............................................................................................................................1
0.6 Terminology .............................................................................................................................. 2
1 Scope .............................................................................................................................................. 3
1.1 Type of Buildings Covered ....................................................................................................... 3
1.2 Limitation .................................................................................................................................. 3
2 General Requirements for Earthquake Resistance Construction .................................................. 4

2.1 Proper Site Selection......................................................................................................................4
2.2 Appropriate Planning. ............................................................................................................... 4
2.3 Good Foundation Resting on a Firm Base.................................................................................4
2.4 Creating a Box Effect................................................................................................................ 4
2.5 Better Bonding between Masonry Units....................................................................................4
2.6 Controlled Size and Location of Openings................................................................................5
2.7 Light Construction......................................................................................................................5
3 Materials......................................................................................................................................... 6
3.1 Boulder Stones .......................................................................................................................... 6
3.2 Quarry Stones ............................................................................................................................ 6
3.3 Dressed Stones .......................................................................................................................... 6
3.4 Stabilized Soil Block................................................................................................................. 6
3.5 Brick .......................................................................................................................................... 6
3.6 Mud Mortar ............................................................................................................................... 6
3.7 Bamboo ..................................................................................................................................... 6
3.8 Timber ....................................................................................................................................... 7
3.9 Reinforced concrete .................................................................................................................. 7
4 Site Consideration .......................................................................................................................... 8

4.1 General ...................................................................................................................................... 8
4.2 Site Selection............................................................................................................................. 8
4.2.1 Geological Fault or Ruptured Areas. ...................................................................................... 8
4.2.2 Areas Susceptible to Landslide. .............................................................................................. 8
4.2.3 Boulder Hazard. ...................................................................................................................... 8
4.2.4 River Bank................................................................................................................................8
4.2.5 Swamp/Marshy Area .............................................................................................................. 8
4.2.6 Steep Slope................................................................................................................................9
4.2.7 Water-Logged Area. ............................................................................................................... 8
4.2.8 Filled Area............................................................................................................................... 9
4.3 Site Investigation....................................................................................................................... 9
4.4 Classification of Soil Type........................................................................................................ 9
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5 Planning ....................................................................................................................................... 11
5.1 Shape ....................................................................................................................................... 12
5.2 Proportion................................................................................................................................ 12
5.3 Storey Height .......................................................................................................................... 12
5.4 Number of Storey......................................................................................................................12
5.5 Plinth Level ............................................................................................................................. 12
6 Foundation ................................................................................................................................... 13
6.1 General .................................................................................................................................... 13
6.2 Strip Footing............................................................................................................................ 13
6.3 Masonry for Foundation ......................................................................................................... 15
6.4 Foundations on Sloping Site ................................................................................................... 15
7 Wall .............................................................................................................................................. 17
7.1 General .................................................................................................................................... 17
7.2 Wall Thickness........................................................................................................................ 18
7.3 Unsupported Wall Length........................................................................................................19
7.4 Height of Walls ....................................................................................................................... 19
8 Openings in Walls ........................................................................................................................ 20

8.1 Maximum Combined Width of Openings .............................................................................. 21
8.2 Position of Openings ............................................................................................................... 21
9 Floors and Roofs .......................................................................................................................... 22

9.1 Structure .................................................................................................................................. 22
9.1.1 Posts and Capitals ................................................................................................................. 22
9.1.2 Beams and Bearings.............................................................................................................. 26
9.1.3 Wall Plates ............................................................................................................................ 28
9.1.4 Joists and Rafters .................................................................................................................. 30
9.2 Floor Finishing and Roof Covering ........................................................................................ 31
9.2.1 Bridging Materials ................................................................................................................ 31
9.2.2 Floor Finishing ...................................................................................................................... 33
9.2.3 Roof Covering ....................................................................................................................... 33
9.2.3.1 Mud ............................................................................................................................... 33
9.2.3.2 Thatch............................................................................................................................ 33
9.2.3.3 Stone Slabs .................................................................................................................... 35
9.2.3.4 MCR Tiles ..................................................................................................................... 35
9.2.3.5 Clay Tiles ...................................................................................................................... 36
9.2.3.6 CGI Sheets .................................................................................................................... 37
9.3 Bamboo for Flooring and Roofing ......................................................................................... 37
9.3.1 Bamboo Flooring .................................................................................................................. 37
9.3.2 Bamboo Roofing ................................................................................................................... 39
10 Seismic Resistant Components.................................................................................................... 42

10.1 Vertical Reinforcement ........................................................................................................... 43
10.1.1 Bamboo ................................................................................................................................. 43
10.1.2 Timber ................................................................................................................................... 45
10.1.3 Steel....................................................................................................................................... 47
10.2 Horizontal Bands..................................................................................................................... 51
10.2.1 Bamboo Band ....................................................................................................................... 52
10.2.2 Timber Band ......................................................................................................................... 54
10.2.3 Reinforced Concrete Band.................................................................................................... 56
10.3 Dowels at corners and junctions ............................................................................................. 59
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10.4 Gable Band .............................................................................................................................. 61

10.5 Diagonal Bracing......................................................................................................................62
10.6 Lateral Restrainers .................................................................................................................. 63
11 Miscellaneous .............................................................................................................................. 64
11.1 Damp Proof Course..................................................................................................................64
11.2 Drainage .................................................................................................................................. 65
11.3 Plastering ................................................................................................................................. 66
APPENDIX -1 HARVESTING AND PRESERVING BAMBOO FOR

CONSTRUCTION.......67
1 Harvesting and Preservative Treatment....................................................................................... 67

1.1 Harvesting ............................................................................................................................... 67
1.1.1 Harvesting Guidelines........................................................................................................... 67
1.1.2 Clump Cure ........................................................................................................................... 67
1.2 Preservative Treatment ........................................................................................................... 67
1.2.1 Water Leaching ..................................................................................................................... 68
1.2.2 White Wash and Other Coatings .......................................................................................... 68
1.2.3 Brushing, Swabbing, Spraying and Dipping ........................................................................ 68
1.3 Fire Retardant Treatment ........................................................................................................ 69
1.4 Storage..................................................................................................................................... 69
APPENDIX - 2 FIRE-RETARDANT TREATMENT FOR THATCH ROOF............................ 71
1 General ......................................................................................................................................... 71
1.1 Materials Required .................................................................................................................. 71
1.2 Method of Preparation ............................................................................................................ 71
1.2.1 Preparation of Stabilised Mud Mortar .................................................................................. 71
1.2.2 Preparation of Bitumen cut back1( for NEM)....................................................................... 71
1.2.3 Preparation of NEM mortar .................................................................................................. 72
1.2.4 Preparation of Bitumen cut back2 for Stabilised Mud Slurry............................................... 72
1.2.5 Preparation of Stabilised Mud Slurry1 for NEM .................................................................. 72
1.2.6 Preparation of Stabilised Mud Slurry2 for Fire Retardant Plaster ........................................ 72
1.3 Method of Application ............................................................................................................ 73
1.3.1 Dressing of Roof Surface...................................................................................................... 73
1.3.2 Application of Stabilised Mud Plaster .................................................................................. 73
1.3.3 Application of Stabilised Mud Slurry1 ................................................................................. 73
1.3.4 Application of NEM Plaster ................................................................................................. 73
1.3.5 Application of Stabilised Mud Slurry2 ................................................................................. 73
APPENDIX - 3 REFERENCE MATERIALS ............................................................................... 75

APPENDIX - 4 GLOSSARY
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LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 5.1 : Recommended forms of buildings 11

Figure 6.1 : Details of Strip Footing Masonry Foundation 13
Figure 6.2 : Details of Strip Footing Masonry Foundation 14
Figure 6.3 : Foundation on Sloping Land 16
Figure 7.1(A) : Details of Wall Construction (Stone Masonry) 17
Figure 7.1(B) : Details of Wall Construction(Brick Masonry) 18
Figure 7.2 : Buttress on walls 19
Figure 8.1 : Location of Openings 20
Figure 9.1 : Details of Fixing Posts on Base Pad 23
Figure 9.2 : Details of Fixing of a Series of Posts on Base Strip 24
Figure 9.3 : Details of Fixing Capitals on the Posts 25
Figure 9.4 : Alternative Details of Fixing Struts on Posts and Beams 25
Figure 9.5(A) : Details of Fixing Keys on Beams 26
Figure 9.5(B) : Details of Wire Binding of Beams to Bands 27
Figure 9.6(A) : Details of Fixing Wall Plates 28
Figure 9.6(B) : Details of Fixing Wall Plates 29
Figure 9.7(A) : Details of Fixing Joists and Rafters 30
Figure 9.7(B) : Details of Fixing Joists and Rafters 31
Figure 9.8 : Details of Fixing Bridging Materials to Joists and Rafters 32
Figure 9.9 : Details of Improved Mud Roofing 33
Figure 9.10 : Details of Improved Thatch Roofing 34
Figure 9.11 : Details of Anchoring Stone Slabs 35
Figure 9.12 : Details of Fixing MCR Tiles 36
Figure 9.13 : Details of Fixing Clay Tiles 37
Figure 9.14 : Details of Fixing CGI Sheets 37
Figure 9.15 : Details of Bamboo Flooring 38
Figure 9.16 : Details of Simple Bamboo Roofing 39
Figure 9.17 : Details of Trussed Bamboo Roofing 41
Figure 9.18 : Details of Wooden Roof Trusses 42
Figure 10.1 : An Overall View of a building with Seismic-Resistant Components 42
Figure 10.2 : Bamboo as Vertical Reinforcement 45
Figure 10.3 : Timber as Vertical Reinforcement 45
Figure 10.4(A) : Steel for Vertical Reinforcement 48
Figure 10.4(B) : Vertical Reinforcement in Rubble Stone masonry 49
Figure 10.4(C) : 'Through' Stone or Bond Elements in Stone Walls in Mud Mortar 50
Figure 10.5(A) : Bamboo for Horizontal Band 52
Figure 10.5(B) : Bamboo for Horizontal Band 53
Figure 10.6(A) : Timber for Horizontal Band 54
Figure 10.6(B) : Details of Timber Reinforcing at Corners and T-Junctions 55
Figure 10.7 (A): Details of reinforcement in R.C. band 58
Figure 10.7 (B): Details of reinforcement in R.C. band 59
Figure 10.8 : Corner and Junction Strengthening by Placing Dowel Reinforcement 60
Figure 10.9 : Details for Gable Band 61
Figure 10.10: Details for Diagonal Bracing 62
Figure 10.11: Lateral Restrainers 63
Figure 11.1(A) : Damp-Proof Course 64
Figure 11.1(B) : Damp-Proof Course 65
Figure 11.2 : Surface Water Drainage around the building 65
1
0. Foreword
0.1 Introduction
A number of documents for better seismic-resistant constructions have been prepared

under the National Building Code Development Project (NEP/88/054/21.03) in 1993.
Guidelines for Earthquake Resistant Building Construction: Low Strength Masonry
(LSM) is one of them. Originally prepared document has been revised by DUDBC in July
2014. This document provides basic guidelines for the earthquake resistance of low-
strength masonry construction.
0.2 Objective
This guideline is prepared in order to raise the seismic safety of low-strength masonry
buildings. This is intended to be implemented by the owner/builder with some assistance
from the technicians. This could also act as a basic guideline for architectural design and
construction detailing of Low Strength Masonry (LSM) buildings.
0.3 Background
The devastating earthquakes in the past have proved the vulnerability of most of the
vernacular buildings of Nepal. Enormous life and property were lost due to the collapse
of buildings which LSM as the main load-bearing element. Earthquakes can neither be
prevented nor predicted precisely. But the large-scale destruction can be minimized by
employing seismic-resistant measures in buildings. This can be achieved by the use of
existing building materials in appropriate ways. This Guideline for Earthquake-
Resistant Building Construction: Low Strength Masonry provides the improved
techniques that can raise the level of seismic safety of low strength masonry buildings.
0.4 Applicability
The recommendations set forth in this standard shall be mandatory for all types of LSM
residential buildings to be built throughout Nepal.
Other occupancy types of LSM buildings shall be designed by competent professional

engineers.
0.5 Interpretation
0.5.1 In this standard the word "shall" indicates a requirement that must be
adopted in order to comply with the Standard, while the "should" indicates
recommended practice.
0.5.2 Words used in either singular or plural shall be treated as plural or singular
as deemed necessary and vice-versa, wherever the context so requires it.
0.6 Terminology
2
In this standard, unless inconsistent with the context:
LSM means Low strength masonry load bearing masonry wall constructed with:
• Non-erodible walling units such as stones, burnt clay bricks, stabilized soil
blocks etc.
• Mud Mortar as a binder.

3
1 Scope
1.1 Type of Buildings Covered
This standard shall be valid for the construction of LSM buildings as defined in clause 0.6.
Naturally, there is nothing preventing designers/builders exceeding the standards set out
in this standard.
1.2 Limitation
LSM buildings required to conform to this standard shall not exceed two stories in height
with an additional attic floor.
4
2 General Requirements for Earthquake Resistance Construction
The principal seismic resistant factors have to be properly incorporated during the
construction of a building. Some basic factors leading to enhanced seismic safety are:
2.1 Proper Site Selection
The construction site has to be stable and safe enough to withstand the total building load,
including that of its occupants and their belongings. A proper site for the building shall
be selected in accordance with section 4 of this guideline.
2.2 Appropriate Planning
The shape, size and proportion of a building is important for its seismic safety. Buildings
with asymmetric plan and elevation are more vulnerable to earthquake than those having
symmetrical ones. The recommended form and proportion of buildings shall be as stated
in section 5.
2.3 Good Foundation Resting on a Firm Base
The quality of foundation and the base on which the foundation rests are equally important
for the safety of a building. General site investigation shall be carried out as outlined in
section 4. The dimensions and quality of masonry for the foundation shall be as stated in
section 6.
2.4 Creating a Box Effect
The building has to act as a single unit for it to have good earthquake resistance. This can
be achieved by incorporating certain elements in the construction. The following elements
shall be introduced as recommended in section 10.
• Vertical reinforcement
• Horizontal bands well-connected to the vertical reinforcements and embedded

in masonry
• Diagonal bracing (horizontal and vertical)
• Lateral restraints
2.5 Better Bonding between Masonry Units
The type and quality of the bond within the walling units is the main contributor to the
integrity and strength of the walls. All the masonry units have to be properly laid to provide
the integrity.
5
2.6 Controlled Size and Location of Openings
Large un-stiffened openings create soft-storey effect which leads to a greater deformation
of building during an earthquake. To prevent such effects, the opening size and location
have to be controlled. The recommended proportions and locations of openings are given
in section 8.
2.7 Light Construction
As the damaging forces during earthquake shaking of the building are directly proportional
to the mass of the building, lighter structures will attract less earthquake force, and hence
less damage. Lighter materials like timber and bamboo are preferred provided they are
available and suitable, considering all other constraints. The wall thickness shall be as low
as possible, but in no case less than 230mm for brick masonry and 350mm for stone
masonry in mud mortar.
6
3 Materials
3.1 Boulder Stones
Boulder stones shall never be used in its natural shape. These boulders shall be broken
before they are laid. The broken boulders shall have flat bedding-surface on top and
bottom. Such broken boulders shall not be less than 50 mm in thickness and 150 mm in
width and length, except in case of fillers required for proper bonding.
3.2 Quarry Stones
Easily-breakable soft stones shall not be used. Only solid quarry stones with no obvious
fractures shall be used. These stones shall not be smaller than 50 mm in thickness and 150
mm in length or breadth. However, the fillers required for proper bonding may be smaller.
3.3 Dressed Stones
In this form of masonry stones shall be chisel dressed on all faces to have perfectly square
or rectangular faces so that accurate bedding and jointing is possible. This type of stone
masonry is preferable for construction.
3.4 Stabilized Soil Block
Stabilized soil blocks to be used for the masonry shall be free from major deformation and
visible cracks. The stabilized soil blocks can be prepared from soil mixed with stabilizers
such as lime, cement, bitumen, and the alike. The size of stabilized soil blocks are
generally 300mmx150mmx100mm. The crushing strength of stabilized soil blocks shall
not be less than 3.5N/mm2.
3.5 Brick
The bricks shall be of a standard rectangular shape, burnt red, hand-formed or machine-
made and shall conform to the Nepal Standard NS: 1/2035. Bricks used as masonry units
shall be of class A1 or class B1 as per NS: 1/2035 with compressive strength not less than
3.5 N/mm2. Over-burnt, Under-burnt and deformed bricks shall not be used.
3.6 Mud Mortar
Mud for mortar shall be free from organic materials. It shall also be free from pebbles and
other hard materials which could upset the mortar thickness. The sand content in the mud
shall not be more than 30 % in order to achieve a proper cohesiveness. Dry mud shall be
thoroughly kneaded with water in order to prepare the dense paste.
3.7 Bamboo
7
Only matured bamboo that is a minimum of three years old and free from damage shall
be used. It is preferable that treated bamboo be used. The treatment may be carried out
in a traditional manner. One of the simplest ways is to soak the bamboo in running water
continuously for two to three weeks. (Details are presented in Appendix 1.)
3.8 Timber
Well-seasoned locally available timber can be used. Seasoning should be done in a traditional
manner. Preferably Sal wood, or any other locally available hardwood timber, shall be used instead
of softwood timber for the main structural elements such as beams, columns, bands, etc.
(According to indigenous experience, deciduous trees are much less susceptible to bacterial and
insect rot if felled during August to December). List of the hardwood and softwood timber
available are as follows:
Table 3.1: List of hardwood and softwood
HARD WOOD SOFT WOOD

Babul Chir
Black Siris Deodar
Dhaman Jack
Indian Rose Wood(Shisam) Mango
Jaman Salla
Mesua Simal
Oak Uttis (Red)
Sain Uttis (White)
Sal
Sandan
Sisso
Teak
Khair
3.9 Reinforced Concrete

In areas where cement, sand, aggregate and reinforcing steel are available, reinforced
concrete may serve as an additional building material. The steel used shall be free from
heavy rust and scale. Cement shall be so stored that that is not affected by moisture. The
mix ratio of shall not be leaner than 1:2:4 (cement: sand: aggregate) .The maximum free
water cement ratio shall not exceed 0.6. The quantity of water added during the mixing
shall be kept to a minimum. The addition of more water although increases the
workability, but reduces its final strength. It should be mixed thoroughly to prepare a
homogenous mix of sufficient workability. Proprietary admixtures can be added to
increase workability, and waterproofing compounds can be added to achieve better water-
proofing.
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4 Site Consideration
4.1 General
The building site shall be the safest available with respect to natural hazards. Any existing
buildings shall be studied for any evidence of inherent natural hazards in the locality.
These hazards include susceptibility to landslides, erosion and land subsidence. The local
practice used to manage such hazards, if any, shall be judged against the required level of
acceptable risk. Areas with high potential of liquefaction during earthquake should also
be avoided.
4.2 Site Selection
Site selection shall be done so as to minimize the risk against natural hazards. No
buildings shall be constructed in the hazardous areas, including the areas stated here under.
4.2.1 Geological Fault or Ruptured Areas.
Geological fault lines or rupture lines that are usually visible to the naked
eye and are permanent, deep and active should be avoided. Buildings
should be constructed at least 500 m away from these lines. (Light and
flexible structures may be built closer)
4.2.2 Areas Susceptible to Landslide.
Areas likely experience frequent landslides shall be avoided for

construction of buildings. The simplest indication of sustained stability of
a slope is the upright standing of the trees on it. They would be inclined
downwards in the case of unstable slopes.
4.2.3 Boulder Hazard.
Nepal, being a mountainous country, has many places where boulders roll
down the bare hill slopes. These boulders can hit and damage the building.
Therefore, buildings shall be constructed in such areas only after the
provision of proper prevention by retaining walls and green barriers of
bamboo groves is assured.
4.2.4 River Bank
It is preferable that river banks and areas susceptible to frequent flooding

should be avoided. Constructions on such areas can be undertaken only
after carrying out protection works as suggested by specialists.
4.2.5 Swamp/Marshy Area
Constructions on swamps or marshy areas should only be undertaken on

specialist advice.
4.2.6 Steep Slope

9
Generally, soil slopes up to 20 are stable and good for construction.
However, constructions on steeper slopes is not restricted if there are
proper retaining walls for the development
4.2.7 Water-Logged Area
Sites with permanent water-logged areas should be avoided. However,

construction is allowable if the site is appropriately treated.
4.2.8 Filled Area
No building foundations shall rest on uncompact filled ground. If a

building is to be constructed in a filled-ground, the foundation shall be
deep enough so as to rest on the firm ground surface beneath the fill.Such
depth should be minimum 600mm below from the firm ground.
4.3 Site Investigation
A site investigation to determine soil type should be carried out. A minimum of two test
pits for each building should be made. The minimum depth of such test pits should be
2.00 m. unless a sound bedding surface like hard rock, conglomerate, etc., is found at a
lesser depth.
4.4 Classification of Soil Type

10
The soil taken from the test pit should be classified as per Table 4.1.
SOIL DESCRIPTION OF SOIL TYPE REMARKS

CLASSIFICATION
a. Rocks in different state of
weathering.
b. Boulder bed and gravel.
c. Sandy gravel.
Hard
d. Dense or loose, coarse to
medium, sand offering high
resistance to penetration by
tools.
e. Stiff to medium clay which are

readily indented by a thumb
nail.
a. Fine sand and silt (dry lumps
easily pulverized by the finger).
Medium
b. Moist clay and sandy clay that
can be that can be indented with
thumb pressure
a. Fine sand loose and dry.
Soft
b. Soft clay indented with
moderate thumb pressure.
a. Soft clay which can be Buildings shall
penetrated several centimeters not be
Weak with thumb. constructed in
weak soil.
b. Wet clays
Table 4.1: Classification of Soil Type

11
5 Planning
5.1 Shape
Buildings which are symmetrical in plan and regular in elevation are safer than the
asymmetrical ones. Thus, it is preferable that buildings be symmetrical and regular. The
different forms of recommended geometrical configurations are illustrated in Figure 5.1.
NO YES
PLAN ELEVATION PLAN ELEVATION
a a
b b
a = 3b
a = 3b
a
a' b
b'
a=b
a' = b'
min 2 W
MAXIMUM STOREYS
MORE THAN 3 STOREYS
2 + ATTIC
Figure 5.1 : Recommended Forms of Buildings
Figure 5.1 : Recommended Forms of Buildings

12
5.2 Proportion.
The length to breadth ratio of a building shall not exceed 3:1. The length to breadth ratio
for any room or area enclosed by load -bearing walls inside the building shall also not
exceed 3:1. The building height shall not be more than three times the width of the
building.
5.3 Storey Height
The floor to floor height of LSM building shall not be less than 2 m and not greater than
3 m. In case of the attic floor, maximum height from floor level to ridge level shall be
1.8m and maximum height from floor level to eave level shall be 1m.
5.4 Number of Storey
The buildings may have up to two stories and an additional attic floor. The maximum
height (floor to floor) of a building shall not exceed 12 times the wall thickness at the
superstructure.
5.5 Plinth Level
The height of plinth level shall be at least 300mm from existing ground level. The height
of plinth level can be changed as per site condition such as surrounding road level, rainfall
intensity of area, drainage condition etc.
13
6 Foundation
6.1 General
The foundation trench shall be of uniform width. The foundation bed shall be on the same
level throughout the foundation in flat area.
6.2 Strip Footing
The minimum size of the footing for each classification of soil type shall be as stated in
Table 6.1. The construction details and dimensions of the strip footings shall not be less
than those illustrated in Figure 6.1. The depth of such footing shall be at least 750mm.
T
+ 3 0 0 ( m in )
FG L + 00
12m m Ø R O D
B R IC K M A S O N R Y
V O ID F IL L E D B Y M 1 5
G RADE CO NCRETE
b b
750
a b b a
b
b
a
W
F L G = F IN IS H E D G R O U N D L E V E L .
1
a = 2 O F L E N G T H O F M A S O N R Y U N IT
T b = 1 4 O F L E N G T H O F M A S O N R Y U N IT
W = 7 5 0 F O R S IN G L E S T O R E Y
+ 3 0 0 ( m in ) = 900 FO R D O U BLE STO R EY
x = ( W - T ) / 6
x x x x x x
FG L + 00
300
STO NE M ASONRY
12m m Ø R O D
V O ID F IL L E D B Y M 1 5
300
G RADE CO NCRETE
150
Figure 6.1: Details of Strip Footing Masonry Foundation

(Where cement and concrete available)
14
B A M B O O P O S T 8 0 M M D IA .,
1 0 M M T H IC K .
BAMBOO NODE
W O O D E N W E D G E H A M M E R E D IN H O L E
W O O D E N B A S E P L A T E 5 0 m m T H IC K
P O LYTH EN E SH EET
W O O D E N P L A N K S 2 5 m m T H IC K
+ 3 0 0 (m in )
x x x
F G L + 00
300
STO NE MASO NRY
B A M B O O P O S T 8 0 M M D IA .,
1 0 M M T H IC K .
300
150
W O O D E N B A S E P L A T E 5 0 m m T H IC K
P O LYTH EN E SH EET
T IM B E R P L A N K S 2 5 M M T H IC K N E S S
B A M B O O B O T T O M L E V E L B IT U M E N C O A T E D
Figure 6.2: Details of Strip Footing Masonry Foundation

(Where cement and concrete not available)
15
NO OF STOREY
SOIL
TYPE OF CONS-
TYPE One Two
TRUCTION
Hard 550 650
BRICK Medium 650 750
Soft 750 900
Hard 750 750
STONE Medium 750 800
Soft 800 *
Table 6.1: Size of Strip Footing for Different Soil Types
Note:
1. Soil type assumed to be same throughout the site.
2. Foundations not required for hard rock bed.
3. LSM building shall not be constructed in weak soil.

4. (*) Two storey LSM building with stone as building block shall not be constructed
in soft soil.
6.3 Masonry for Foundation
Masonry units shall be large flat-bedded stones or regular-sized well-burnt brick. Mortar
joints shall not exceed 20 mm in any case. All the vertical joints shall be kept staggered
in alternate layers. Mud packing in the core of foundation shall not be permitted. The gaps
in the core shall be well-packed with the masonry units.
6.4 Foundations on Sloping Site
No building shall be built on land steeper than 20 (1:3, Vertical: Horizontal). Stepped
strip footing shall be made for foundations on sloping land. The minimum depth of a
foundation shall be measured from the existing ground level on the filled part and from
the finished ground level on the cut part, and this shall not be less than 750 mm. Each step
shall not be narrower than two times the wall thickness at the base of the superstructure,
as shown in Figure 6.3.
16
4.00 m
1.20 m (min)
T
FLOOR FINISH + 300 (min)

ORIGINAL
GROUND LEVEL FINISHED GROUND LEVEL + 00
1.20 m (min)
V
1.20 m (min)
750(min)
W X X H
H X W
X = MINIMUM 2T OR 1.0 m WHICHEVER IS MORE.

H = NOT MORE THAN 300 mm.
Ø = MAXIMUM SLOPE 20°
V = NOT MORE THAN 1.0 m WITHOUT PROVISION OF RETAINING WALL.
Figure 6.2 : Foundation on Sloping Land
Figure 6.3: Foundation on Sloping Land

17
7 Wall
7.1 General
Walls in the foundation and superstructure shall be true to plumb line (i.e. vertical). Mortar
packing in the core shall not be permitted. The core shall be well-laid with the walling
units. Mortar joints shall not be more than 20 mm and less than 10 mm in thickness.
Vertical joints in alternate layers shall be staggered. The width of the wall shall be uniform.
The wall shall have plenty of through-stones extending the whole width of the walls. The
maximum spacing of such through-stones shall be 1200 mm in the horizontal direction
and 600 mm vertically .Alternatively, seasoned wooden dowel or precast concrete or in
situ concrete may be used instead of through-stones as shown in fig 7.1(a). Only large,
flat stones shall be used to make corners and junctions. Instead of leaving toothed end up
a vertical line, stepped construction that allows interlocking between walls at staggered
vertical sections should be provided. When irregular walling units such as undressed
stones are used, layered construction that is continuous about the perimeter of the walls
shall be carried out. The detailing and size of through-stones could be as illustrated in
Figure 7.1
3/4 THROUGH STONES USED IN PARIS
THROUGH STONE/
WOODEN DOWEL/
PRECAST CONCRETE/
STEEL ROD
THROUGH STONE
600
600
00
12
00
12 NOTE : USE EITHER THROUGH STONE
OR WOODEN DOWEL.
Figure 7.1(a) : Details of Wall Construction (Stone Masonry)

Figure 7.1 (a) : Details of Wall Construction ( Stone Masonry)
18
[The dowel bars shall be provided with at least 3-nos of 10mm dia mild steel bars or equivalent HYSD bars]
Figure 7.1(b) : Details of Wall Construction(Brick Masonry)
7.2 Wall Thickness
The minimum thickness of walls for different storey heights shall not be less than those
stated in Table 7.1.
MASONRY TYPE NO OF STOREY

One Two Two Plus Attic
Stone 350-450 450 450
Brick 230 350 350
Stone /Cement Solid Block 300 300 300
Stabilized Soil Block 300 300 300
Table 7.1(b) : Minimum Wall Thickness (mm) for Different Storey Heights
19
7.3 Unsupported Wall Length
The maximum length of unsupported wall shall not exceed 12 times its thickness. If it is
necessary for a wall to be longer than 12 times its thickness, it shall be provided with a
buttress at intervals not exceeding 12 times the wall thickness. Thickness of such buttress
wall shall be equal to the thickness of wall and width of the buttress shall be equal to
thickness of wall from the external face of wall at the top and shall extend upto h/6 at the
bottom from the external face of the wall, h being the height of buttress. The details as
illustrated in Figure 7.2 could be used for such buttresses.
12w 12w
w w
Figure 7.2 : Buttress on Walls
7.4 Height of Walls
The thickness to height ratio of a wall shall not be more than that stated in Table
7.2.However storey height shall also be as per clause 5.3.
MASONRY TYPE RATIO

Stone 1:8
Brick 1:12
Stone/Cement Solid Block 1:12
Stabilized Soil Block 1:12
Table 7.2 Maximum Thickness to Height Ratio of Walls

20
8 Openings in Walls
Openings in a wall generally describe those for doors and windows. However, the partial
puncture of a wall such as that for a wardrobe, for a built-in closet, or for a Dalan covered
verandah with walls on three sides, shall also be considered as openings in this guideline.
Unbalanced openings contribute to the increased vulnerability of buildings during an

earthquake. For buildings to be safer, the size and location of the openings shall be
controlled as illustrated in Figure 8.1.
Cross wall
L1 L2
b3
h
b1 b2 b6 b7
h2
h2
b5 b5
h1
b8 b4
b8
b4
b4 b4
RECOMMENDATION REGARDING OPENINGS IN LOAD BEARING WALLS
NOTE:
for one
b1 + b2 < 0.3 L1 for one storey, 0.25 L1 for two plus
storey
attic storeyed
for one
b6 + b7 < 0.3 L2 for one storey, 0.25 L2 for two plus
storey
attic storeyed, three storeyed.
b4 > 0.5 h2 but not less than 600 mm.
b5 > 0.25 h1 but not less than 600

450 mm.
b8  0.25 h2 but not less than 600 mm

h  (greater of 0.5b2, 0.5b3) but not less than 600 mm
Figure 8.1: Location of Openings

21
8.1 Maximum Combined Width of Openings
The maximum combined width of the openings on a wall between two consecutive cross-
walls shall be restricted as following.
For one-storey buildings, the openings shall not exceed 30 % of the total wall length.
For two-storey buildings, the openings shall not exceed 25 % of the total wall length.
8.2 Position of Openings
Openings are to be located away from inside corners by a clear distance equal to at least
1/4th of the height of the opening, but not less than 600mm.
The horizontal distance (pier width) between two openings is to be not less than one half
of the height of the shorter opening but not less than 600mm.
The vertical distance between two openings shall not be less than 600 mm or half the width
of the smaller opening, whichever is the greater.
No Dalan shall have a wall-to-wall opening. The corners shall be extended a distance at
least equal to the wall thickness along the Dalan for such openings.
22
9 Floors and Roofs
Buildings should be as light as possible in order to make them more seismic- resistant.
The practice of laying thick layer of mud to achieve a firm floor/flat roof is common. This
increases the overall building weight. The thickness of the mud layer used for
flooring/roofing shall be kept as small as possible. The roof covering shall project
minimum of 450mm around all the exterior walls.
9.1 Structure
The following points shall be duly considered when selecting the materials for flooring
structures :
 Locally available hardwood species shall be preferred to softwood species

for the structural elements of flooring.
 Using a whole tree trunk as a structural element not only increase the
weight, but also makes the wood more susceptible to termites attack. This
results in a shorter life for such elements. Hence, only sawn timbers should
be used.
 Seasoned and treated timber or bamboo shall be used. Simple methods of

treating and seasoning timber and bamboos are given in appendix 1. These
should be carried out prior to the placement of these structural elements.
9.1.1 Posts and Capitals
Circular posts shall be preferred for posts, the whole tree trunk being used only
after removal the bark and the sapwood.
Whenever sawn timber is used for posts, it should be square in section. The
minimum size for various column spacing shall be as tabulated in Table 9.1.
Size of Column for Post spacing of

SPECIES
2m 2.5 m 3m 3.5 m
Hardwoods 110x110 110x110 120x120 130x130
Softwoods 120x120 120x120 130x130 140x140
Table 9.1: Size of Posts (mm)

(Note: For circular section, radius(r) is taken such that total area is unaltered.)
Each post shall rest on a firm base pad of stone or timber base. The base pad should
have a groove in to which the post shall be housed. The details could be as shown
in Figure 9.1.
23
Figure 9.1: Details of Fixing Posts on Base Pad
Whenever a series of posts are erected on the same horizontal line, they should be
founded on a horizontal timber member as shown in Figure 9.2. The minimum
24
depth of such a horizontal timber shall be 75 mm for hardwood and 100 mm for
softwood species. The breadth of these horizontal elements shall not be less than
the size of the posts they support.
Figure 9.2: Details of Fixing of a Series of Posts on Base Strip
Each posts shall have a properly connected Meth (capital) on its top end. The
minimum dimensions of such capitals shall be as given in Figure 9.3.
Alternatively, the capitals may be replaced by struts well-connected to the posts
and beams, as shown in Figure 9.4.
25
Figure 9.3: Details of Fixing Capitals on the Posts
Figure 9.4: Alternative Details of Fixing Struts on Posts and Beams

26
9.1.2 Beams and Bearings
Beams shall never rest directly on a wall. A base pad for the beam shall be
provided. This pad should be either of timber or a large flat stone covering
the whole width of the wall. The minimum thickness of such a pad shall
be 75 mm.
The beam shall be long enough to extend beyond both the supporting
walls. Timber keys shall be provided on both the external and internal
walls as shown in Figure 9.5.
Figure 9.5(a): Details of Fixing Keys on Beams

(In areas where steel and concrete are not available)
27
BEAM
R ,C .C .B L O C K
2 n o s . 12
10 m m Ø BARS
8 m m Ø S T IR R U P S @ 1 5 0 m m C /C
G .I. B IN D IN G W IR E
W A L L T H IC K N E S S
7 5 m in .
2 n o s . 12
10 m m Ø BARS
Figure 9.5(b): Details of Wire Binding of Beams to Bands

(In areas where steel and cement are available)
The beams shall be rectangular in section and shall never be laid wider surface
horizontal. The minimum dimensions of the beams for different spans shall be as
tabulated in Table 9.2.
Size (DxB) of Beam for SPAN of
SPECIES
2m 2 to 2.5 m 2.5 to 3 m 3 to 3.5 m 3.5 to 4m
Hardwood 190x100 220x100 240x120 270x140 300x150
Softwood 230x120 270x140 310x150 340x160 370x170
Table 9.2: Size of Beams (mm) for Various Spans

28
9.1.3 Wall Plates
Wall plates or horizontal bands shall extent all around the walls. They
shall be placed on the wall so that the joists rest on them. The fixing details
and minimum dimensions of such wall plates and or bands shall be as
given in Figure 9.6.
Figure 9.6(a): Details of Fixing Wall Plates

(In areas where steel and concrete are not available)
29
R .C .C .C O N C R E T E B L O C K
7 5 m in .
2 nos. 12 m m Ø B A R S
Figure 9.6(b): Details of Fixing Wall Plates

(In areas where steel and concrete are available)
30
9.1.4 Joists and Rafters
The joists/rafters shall be long enough to extend beyond supporting members such
as walls and/or beams. The extended joists/rafters should have timber keys on
both external and internal sides of both the supporting elements as shown in
Figure 9.7.
Figure 9.7(a):Details of Fixing Joists and Rafters

(In areas where steel and cement are not available)
31
BEAM
R .C .C .B L O C K R ,C .C .B L O C K
3 n o s .1 2 m m Ø B A R S
2 n o s . 12
10 m m Ø BARS
8
6 m m Ø S T IR R U P S 1
@ 1 5 0 m m C /C
2
7 5 m in .
Figure 9.7(b): Details of Fixing Joists and Rafters

(In areas where steel and cement are available)
The joists/rafters should be rectangular in section and should never be laid with their wider
surface horizontal. The minimum sizes of rafters for various spans shall be as tabulated
in Table 9.3.
Dimension (DxB) FOR SPAN UPTO

SPECIES
1m 1.5 m 2m 2.5 m 3m 3.5m
Hardwood 100*65 100*65 100*65 120*65 130*75 140*80

Softwood 140*75 140*75 140*75 170*90 180*90 200*100
Spacing (c/c) ≤0.5m ≤0.5m ≤0.5m ≤0.5m ≤0.5m ≤0.5m
Table 9.3: Minimum Depth (mm) of Joists and Rafters
9.2 Floor Finishing and Roof Covering

9.2.1 Bridging Materials
Using better bridging materials allows joists to be spaced wider apart which will
not only reduce the construction cost, but also makes the building lighter. If
chopped (split) wood or planks are used as bridging materials, they shall be nailed
to each joist supporting them. If bamboo, reed, or any other material is used, it
also shall be tied to the joists. Some of the simple connecting details of such
materials are illustrated in Figure 9.8.
Half-cut bamboo placed as an inverted "U" over the joists makes the best low-cost
bridging material.
32
MUD
X A LAYER OF POLYTHENE SHEET
d/2 50
50 min.
d
75 min
HALF-CUT BAMBOO PLACED ADJACENT

Wall Plate
Mud Wall BAMBOO JOIST
ELEVATION
MUD
A LAYER OF POLYTHENE SHEET
BAMBOO JOIST HALF-CUT BAMBOO PLACED ADJACENT
LASHING ( String, G.I.Wire, Bamboo )
SECTION AT X-X
MUD
Figure 9.8 : Details for Fixing Bridging
X Materials
A LAYER to Joist and
OF POLYTHENE SHEET Rafters
d/2 50
50 min.
d
75 min
HALF-CUT BAMBOO PLACED ADJACENT

Wall Plate
Mud Wall WOODEN JOIST
ELEVATION
MUD
A LAYER OF POLYTHENE SHEET
WOODEN JOIST HALF-CUT BAMBOO PLACED ADJACENT
LASHING ( String, G.I.Wire, Bamboo )
SECTION AT X-X
Figure 9.8 : Details for Fixing Bridging Materials to Joist and Rafters
Figure 9.8: Details of Fixing Bridging Materials to Joists and Rafters
33
9.2.2 Floor Finishing
It is preferable to use better bridging materials between the joists to achieve

a stiffer flooring. Timber planks and half-cut bamboos are examples of
these. The fixing could be carried out as illustrated in Figure 9.8.
The mud layers used for the floor base and finish shall not be more than
75 mm thick in total.
9.2.3 Roof Covering
Stone slabs, slates and mud roofing make the building heavy. These
elements should be avoided as far as practicable. Tiles or jhingati laid over
a mud layer are another load-increasing factor and should be avoided.
However, it may not be possible to avoid completely these elements owing
to various constraints. Lighter options such as thin stone slabs and a
thinner layer of mud are preferable.
9.2.3.1 Mud
Mud is widely used in the northwestern parts of Nepal. The

general techniques practiced for making mud roofs consume high
quantities of mud, resulting in heavy building. Mud roofs could
be constructed as illustrated in Figure 9.9.
Figure 9.9: Details of Improved Mud Roofing
9.2.3.2 Thatch
34
Thatch is the lightest of all materials used for roof covering. A

shorter life-span, leaking and vulnerable to fire are the main
deficiencies of thatch which lead builders to opt for a better
material. There are techniques available for making thatch durable
and fire-retarding. Hence, improved thatch roofing shall be
preferred to heavier materials such as stone slabs or slates. Thatch
roofs could be constructed as illustrated in Figure 9.10. Thatch
roofs shall be made fire-retarding and water-repelling by method
given in Appendix 2.
Figure 9.10 : Details of Improved Thatch Roofing

35
9.2.3.3 Stone Slabs
Only thinner slabs shall be used for roofing. A minimum overlap

of 75 mm shall be provided on all sides. They should be properly
tied to the purlins and rafters as illustrated in Figure 9.11
Figure 9.11: Details for Anchoring Stone Slabs
9.2.3.4 MCR Tiles
Micro roofing (MCR) tiles are becoming popular in many parts of

the country. These tiles have projected binding wires embedded
into the tiles for anchoring. All the tiles should be properly tied
with these protruding wires to the battens and purlins, as shown in
Figure 9.12.
36
Figure 9.12: Details of Fixing MCR Tiles
9.2.3.5 Clay Tiles
Only well-burnt clay roofing tiles of good quality shall be used for
roofing. All the tiles shall be well-anchored on the battens. The
details given in Figure 9.13 could be adopted for fixing clay tiles.
37
Figure 9.13: Details of Fixing Clay Tiles
9.2.3.6 CGI Sheets
Corrugated galvanized iron (CGI) sheets are very popular in all

parts of the country, except in the high mountains. These sheets
shall be properly anchored to each purlins/battens that support
them. The details could be as illustrated in Figure 9.14.
See Table 9.3
See Table 9.3
Figure 9.14: Details for Fixing CGI Sheets
9.3 Bamboo for Flooring and Roofing
Only treated bamboo shall be used for structural elements. The bamboos shall be straight
and uniform without any defects.
9.3.1 Bamboo Flooring
Bamboo flooring could be made as illustrated in Figure 9.15.

38
A
B
C E
G
D H
F
A, FITTING AND BINDING CULMS AT JOINTS IN ROOF AND FRAME

B, FITTING AND SECURING BAMBOO BO ARDS OF FLOOR
C, D, SADDLE JOINT
E, F, USE OF INSET BLOCK TO SUPPORT HORIZONTAL LOAD SH ARING ELEMENTS
G, H, USE OF STUMP OF BRANCH AT NODE OF POST TO SUPPORT HORIZONTAL
LOAD BEARING ELEMENTS
Figure 9.15: Details of Bamboo Flooring

39
9.3.2 Bamboo Roofing
Bamboo roofing can be made in two ways. The first method is for a simple
roof, the details of which could be made as illustrated in Figure 9.16.
RIDGE PURLIN BAMBOO

POLETHENE SHEET
MUD
POLETHENE SHEET
HALF-CUT BAMBOO
BAMBOO
PLACED ADJACENT
TIE
BAMBOO RAFTER
LASHING
(String, G.I.Wire, Bamboo)
4000
( max span)
Figure 9.16 : Detail of Simple Bamboo Roofing

Figure 9.16: Details of Simple Bamboo Roofing
40
The second method involves making a simple truss out of bamboo. The
construction of bamboo trusses shall be done as illustrated in Figure 9.17.
BAMBOO STRIP 12 x 25
BAMBOO STRIP 6 x 12
POLETHENE SHEET
MUD
LAYER OF POLE SHEET
LAYER OF
HALF-CUT POLYTHENE SHEET
BAMBOO
PLACED ADJACENT
LASHING
HALR-CUT
BAMBOO
GUTTER
HORIZONTAL
WOODEN
TIE
MEMBER
RIDGE PURLIN BAMBOO

BAMBOO TIE
BAMBOO RAFTER
VERTICAL
BAMBOO
POST
WOODEN
MEMBER
BAMBOO TIE BEAM
LASHING (String, G.I.Wire, Bamboo)
FigureFigure 9.17 :ofDetail

9.17: Details ofBamboo
Trussed Bamboo Roof Trusses
Roofing
41
3 w a y s tr a p o f 6 m m
th ic k n e s s
1 0 m m Ø b o lt @ 5 0 m m c /c
P u r lin s
K in g p o s t
P r in c ip a l r a fte r
S tr u t ( 1 0 x 1 0 )c m
(1 0 x 1 0 ) c m
W o o d e n p la n k , 2 5 m m th ic k
Figure 9.18: Details of Wooden Roof Trusses

42
10 Seismic-Resistant Components
There are number of components which contribute to the enhanced safety against
earthquake forces. These elements shall be incorporated in all buildings. The details are
given hereunder.
An overall view of seismic-resistant components in a building is shown in Figure 10.1.
2
2
1
1
4
4
5
5
1 - L in t e l B a n d
2 - R o o f B a n d ( o n ly f o r p it c h e d r o o f s a n d u n d e r ro o fs a n d flo o r )
3 - V e r t ic a l s te e l.
4 - S ill B a n d .
5 - P lin t h B a n d .
6 - G a b le B a n d .
Figure 10.1 An Overall View of a Building with Seismic-Resistant Components

43
10.1 Vertical Reinforcement
No masonry wall shall be constructed without vertical reinforcement. The materials used
for vertical reinforcement shall depend upon the availability of suitable materials in the
locality. Steel bar, which is the best, is not available in most of the rural Nepal. Bamboo
is another potential material for vertical reinforcement. The size of vertical bamboo
reinforcement shall be more than 80mm in diameter having thickness of at least
10mm.Timber can also be used. In order to enhance the bonding between vertical bamboo
post and wall, lime, as a better bonder than mud, shall be applied at every corner and
junction of wall. Long dressed stones (say 450mm) shall be laid at every corner and
junction of wall where stone masonry is provided. The details for using each of these
materials as vertical reinforcement should be as presented hereunder.
Vertical reinforcements shall be located at all corners and junctions of a wall. It shall start
from the foundation and continued to the roof band.
10.1.1 Bamboo
The details for using bamboo as vertical reinforcing could be as illustrated in Figure 10.2.
CORNER POST
B A M B O O P L IN T H B A N D
KEYS
DPC
(P O L E T H E N E )
S E C T IO N
44
CORNER POST
KEYS
D PC O F P O LETHENE SHEET
PLAN
Figure 10.2 Bamboo as Vertical Reinforcement

F ig u re 1 0 .2 : B a m b o o fo r V e r tic a l R e in fo r c e m e n t
45
10.1.2 Timber
It is difficult to find a single timber long enough to span between the

foundation and the roof. Dovetail joints shall be used to connect the
different timbers to form a single unit. The details of providing such
vertical reinforcement could be as illustrated in Figure 10.3.
Figure 10.3: Timber as Vertical Reinforcement

46
47
10.1.3 Steel
In areas where steel and concrete are available, steel can be used to
provided vertical reinforcement and it is usually the most effective. The
steel bars shall be placed at all corners and junctions and if the vertical
opening of the wall is more than 50 % of the wall height, vertical
reinforcements shall also be provided in the jambs of the openings. The
use of steel as vertical reinforcement shall be as shown in the Figure
10.4.The numbers of bars to be provided shall be as given in Table 10.1.
48
Figure 10.4 (a): Steel for Vertical Reinforcement

49
The installation of a vertical bar in stone masonry can easily be effected by using about 750mm
long and 75 mm diameter pipe casing around which the masonry is built to a height of 600 mm.
The pipe is kept loose by rotating it during masonry construction. Then the casing is raised up
and the cavity filled around the bar with concrete (1:2:4) as shown in Figures 10.4 (a) and10.4
(b). The concrete will not only provide a bond between the steel and the masonry, but it will also
protect the bar from corrosion.
The jamb steel shall be taken from the footing up to the lintel band and anchored into it.
Figure10.4 (b): Vertical Reinforcement in Rubble Stone Masonry

50
1. S to n e w a ll
t= 4 5 0 t= 4 5 0
2 . V e rtic a l s te e l b a r
3 . C a s in g p ip e
4 4 4 . 'th ro u g h ' s to n e
5 . C o n c re te b lo c k ,T h ro u g h S to n e ,
W ooden dow el 50x50x450
1 1
6 . L o n g c o n c re te b lo c k
5 0 x 5 0 x 6 0 0 -6 5 0 lo n g
<1200
<1200
5
6 6 5
3 3
2 2
t= 4 5 0
t= 4 5 0
CL
<1200 <1200 <1200
a T -ju n c tio n D e ta il b C o rn e r D e ta il
t= 4 5 0 fo r m u d m o rta r
t= 3 8 0
Figure10.4(c):‘Through’ Stone or Bond Elements in Stone Walls in Mud Mortar
1. S to n e w a ll
t= 3 8 0
2 . V e rtic a l s te e l b a r
3 . C a s in g p ip e
4 4
4 . 'th ro u g h ' s to n e
5 . C o n c re te b lo c k ,T h ro u g h S to n e ,
1 1 W ooden dow el 50x50x450
6 . L o n g c o n c re te b lo c k
5 0 x 5 0 x 6 0 0 -6 5 0 lo n g
<1200
<1200
5
6 6 5
3 3
2 2
t= 3 8 0 0
t= 4 5 0
GL CL
<1200 <1200 <1200
a T -ju n c tio n D e ta il b C o rn e r D e ta il
t= 4 5 0 fo r m u d m o rta r
51
Dia. of single Fe-415 bars at each:

No of
Floor Corners and Jambs of
Storey
Junctions opening#
One Ground 12 12
One plus Attic 12
12
Attic Ground 12
First 12 12
Two*
Ground 16 12
Attic 12 12
Two*
First 12 12
(plus Attic)
Ground 16 12
Notes :
*Two-storey buildings with load-bearing stone masonry of random rubble or
half-dressed stone are not recommended in soft soil.
* The vertical steel in the jamb shall be provided where the opening of the wall
is more than 50 % of the wall height.
Table 10.1: Recommended Vertical Steel at Critical Sections
10.2 Horizontal Bands
Horizontal bands are pre provided to create box effects and to impart horizontal bending
strength in them. Reinforced concrete band is the best material for horizontal bands.
However, this is not practical in many rural parts of Nepal owing to many supply
constraints. Therefore, bamboo and timber should be used as alternatives. Such bands
52
shall be located at least at the plinth, sill, and lintel levels of the building. They shall be
made continuous throughout wall with proper connections, and they shall be tied properly
with the vertical reinforcement at different levels. Details of the use of various materials
for these horizontal bands are given below
10.2.1 Bamboo Band
An assemblage of two parallel bamboo length connected by struts shall be

made wide enough to cover the entire thickness of the wall to create a
horizontal band. The details of constructing such a bands shall be as
illustrated in Figure 10.5(a) and 10.5(b).
Figure 10.5(a): Bamboo for Horizontal Band

53
DPC OF
PO LETH EN E SH EET
V E R T IC A L R E IN F O R C E D B A M B O O
SSTONE MASONRY
TO NE M ASONTY
IN MMUD
IN UD
B A M B O O R E IN F O R C E D W A L L
Figure 10.5(b): Bamboo for Horizontal Band

54
10.2.2 Timber Band
A timber band can be constructed in a similar manner to the bamboo band.

The details could be as illustrated in Figure 10.6(a) and10.6 (b).
WOODEN COLLAR BEAM

NAILS, MINIMUM 4
NAILS, MINIMUM 4
HORIZONTAL BRACE
ANCHOR BOLT
MINIMUM Ø 12 mm
TWO SAWN LUMBERS,

HORIZONTAL REINFORCEMENT
HORIZONTAL REINFORCEMENT
LINTEL NAILS, MINIMUM 4
Figure 10.6 (a): Timber for Horizontal Band

55
b2 50 X 30 75 X 38
75 X 38
500
500 75 X 38
i) PERSPECTIVE
500 500 500 500 500
500
b1
Lintel-Level Wooden Band on
all Load-Bearing Walls
b2 600 600 b2 600
b1
b1
b1
50 x 30
600
600
b2 b2
i) WOOD DOWEL AT ii) WOOD DOWEL AT T-JUNCTION OF WALL

CORNER OF WALL AT ABOUT 900 ABOVE FLOOR LEVEL
Figure 22.2 : Details of Wood Reinforcing

Figure 10.6 (b): Details of Timber Reinforcing at Corners and T-Junctions
at Corners and T-Junctions
56
10.2.3 Reinforced Concrete Band
Horizontal bands of steel and concrete shall be provided. Such bands shall
be provided at plinth, sill, lintel, floor and roof levels. The details of the
reinforcement in these bands are as shown in Figure 10.7.
Band RC band minimum Min. Min.

thickness No. Of Diameter of
bars Bars (mm)
Plinth 150mm*1 4 12
Sill 75mm 2 10
75mm*2 2 12
Lintel 2 10(top)
150mm*2
2 12(bottom)
Roof 75mm 2 12
Dowel
(Stitch) 75mm 2 8
Note:
 *1: Plinth band thickness can be reduced to 75mm in case of hard soil,
reinforced with 2-12mm dia bars.
 *2: Where opening width do not exceed 1m and masonry height above
opening do not exceed 0.9m, 75mm lintel is sufficient. In such case,
longitudinal reinforcement shall be placed at bottom face maintaining
25mm cover from bottom. For opening width upto 1.5m and masonry
height above opening upto 1.2m, 150mm lintel band is necessary.
 The specified bar is for High Strength Deformed Bars-Fe415. Mild
steel bar of equivalent area can also be used as steel-reinforcement.
 Additional longitudinal bars shall be provided at the middle of each
layer if the width of the wall exceeds 250mm such that spacing of
these bars do not exceed 250mm.
 Width of the RC band is assumed to be the same as the thickness of
wall. A cover of 25 mm from face of wall shall be maintained.
 The vertical thickness of RC band may be kept minimum 75 mm where
two longitudinal bars are specified and 150 mm where four
longitudinal bars are specified.
57
 Concrete mix to be 1:2:4 by volume of having M15 grade cube

crushing strength at 28 days.
 The longitudinal bars shall be held in position by steel stirrup of 8 mm
diameter spaced at 150 mm apart.
Table 10.2: Recommended Steel in Reinforced Concrete Band

58
Figure 10.7 (a): Details of Reinforcement in a Reinforced Concrete Band

59
VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT
d
Band Reinforcement
NOTE:
d - OVERLAPPING LENGTH min 700 mm.
Figure 10.7 (b): Details of Reinforcement in a Reinforced Concrete Band
2 K 4.75
Diameter of bars
Type of steel
10.3 Dowels at Corners and Junctions No. of steel
Figure 10.7(b) : Details of Reinforcement in a Reinforcement Band

In areas where steel and cement are available, steel dowel bars can be used at corners and
T-junctions to assist the box action of walls. Dowels (Figure 10.6) shall be embedded in
the walls to a sufficient length to develop their full bond strength. Details of this are shown
in Figure 10.8.
60
8 8
Figure 10.8: Corner and Junction Strengthening by Placing Dowel Reinforcement

61
10.4 Gable Band
Gable band must be used in all sloped-roof construction. They are constructed in a similar
manner to horizontal bands. The difference is their position in the buildings. Gable bands
are inclined members placed parallel to the inclination of the gable wall forming the roof
slope. The details could be as illustrated in Figure 10.9.
Figure 10.9: Details for Gable Bands

62
10.5 Diagonal Bracing
All flexible structural elements such as joists and rafters shall be diagonally braced. Each
crossings of joists/rafters and a braces shall be properly fixed. The bracing material could
be timber strips, whole bamboo, or bamboo strips. The details could be as illustrated in
Figure 10.10
4
7
4
5 4
3
2
DETAILS OF NEW ROOF BRACING
6
1. FLOOR
2. GABLE WALL ( TYMPANUM)
3. WOODEN NAIL NAILED TO NEW TIES 5 AND 2
4. NEW PLANKS, DIAGONAL BRACING
7
5. PURLINS
6. ROOF COVERING
7. ROOF RAFTERS
8. GABLE WALL TO BE FILLED WITH LIGHTER
MATERIALS.
5
3 2
Figure 10.10: Details for Diagonal Bracing

63
10.6 Lateral Restrainers
When joists and beams are placed as detailed in section 9.1.2 and 9.1.4, the timber keys,
along with the beams and rafters, work as lateral restrainers. Since they are effective in
only one direction, only the walls normal to them are laterally restrained. For restraining
the walls parallel to the joists, the wall plates or horizontal bands shall be extended beyond
the exterior of walls to facilitate anchoring them by timber keys. This will partially restrain
the walls parallel to the joists. Additional timber members should be provided above joists
and normal to them. These elements shall be long enough to extend beyond the wall on
the external side and at least cross two joists on the internal side. These elements shall be
nailed to the joists and timber keys shall be provided on both the internal and internal faces
of the wall. These timber elements shall have a maximum spacing of 450 mm. The details
could be as given in Figure 10.11.
5 4
1
1. WALL
2. WOODEN PLANKS
3. FLOOR JOISTS
4. WOODEN NAIL
5. CONNECTING WOODEN JACK
A A
3
CONNECTION OF FLOOR TO WALL t 150

4
5 2
40
15
200
3
d + 100
WOODEN
KEY
SECTION AT A - A
20
Figure 10.11 : Lateral Restrainers
Figure 10.11: Lateral Restrainers

64
11 Miscellaneous
11.1 Damp Proof Course
Damp rising from the ground up into the superstructure not only damages the
masonry units, but also accelerates the decaying of timber and bamboo elements.
Damp rising through the floor makes it unhygienic. The rise of damp to the upper
portion of the wall can be checked by inserting a damp-proof layer on the wall at
the plinth level. In floors, a small quantity of clay is often used to reduce the
rocking effect of stone slabs and to increase stability. The same layer, if continued
beneath the entire flooring on the ground floor under the floor finish, makes the
floor drier and thus more comfortable to live on. A damp-proof layer shall be
placed at the plinth level as shown in Figure 11.1.
In areas where steel and concrete are available, reinforced concrete plinth beams
with water-proofing compounds can be provided to achieve better damp-proofing.
FLOOR FINISH
STONE SLAB FOR DPC

450
G.L.
FLOOR FINISH
POLYTHENE SHEET
COMPACTED FINE CLAY
HARDCORE
450
G.L.
Figure 11.1(a): Damp-Proof

Figure 11.1(a) CourseCourses
: Damp-Proof (in areas where steel and concrete are not available)
(in areas where steel and concrete are not available)
65
F L O O R F IN IS H
PO LYTHENE SHEET
C O M P A C T E D F IN E C L A Y
HARDCORE
8 m m Ø S T IR R U P S
7 5 m in
@ 1 5 0 m m C /C
450
G .L .
2 Nos O F 12 m m Ø BAR
D P C O F R .C .C .
Figure 11.1(b): Damp-Proof Course (in areas where steel and concrete are available)
11.2 Drainage
Site drainage must be provided at the building site. If surface water is not properly drained
away, it penetrates the foundation and upsets its stability. A proper drainage system shall
be laid all around the building to prevent the penetration of surface water into the
foundation. This shall be carried out as illustrated in Figure 11.2.
300
50
Figure 11.2: Surface Water Drainage around a Building

Figure 11.2: Surface Water Drainage around a Building
66
11.3 Plastering
Cement plaster can be applied to the walls after proper cleaning of the walls surface. The
ratio of cement to sand shall not exceed 1:6.
67
APPENDIX - 1 HARVESTING AND PRESERVING BAMBOO FOR CONSTRUCTION
1 Harvesting and Preservative Treatment
1.1 Harvesting
Bamboo should be three-years old before harvesting. Cutting selectively at a rate determined by
ecological conditions, and removing only mature culms three-years old, is the most natural
procedure for maintaining a grove in a condition of sustained yield.
Harvesting guidelines prepared by Dehradun Forestry Institute (India) are applicable for Nepal as
the climate, the location of Dehradun and other conditions are similar to those in Nepal.
Correct harvesting is very essential because proper and systematic harvesting gives a maximum
life of cut bamboo for building component use. For some minor house component such as battens,
the need for additional preservative treatment may be prevented if systematic harvesting was
carried out.
1.1.1 Harvesting Guidelines
 Do not cut any clump younger than three years, or in the rainy season or
from a flowering grove.
 No cuts shall be made lower than the second node or higher than 30 cm
above ground.
 Remove branches, clump tips, and all harvest trash. Debris obstructs
growth, encourages disease, and makes later harvesting more difficult.
 Leave leaves for mulch. Their 6 % silica helps harden later culms.
 A minimum of six mature culms should be left uncut in each clump of

tropical species to sustain grove vitality and to insure a steady yield.
1.1.2 Clump Cure
Harvest bamboo at the beginning of the dry season; leave culms standing four to
eight weeks in the groves, propped on stakes or rocks, with branches and leaves
uncut so as to increase evaporation surface and diminish insect entry points offered
by freshly cut skin. This clump cure not only reduces starch content, which the
bamboo beetles seek, but it also greatly decreases the tendency to crack and
produces a pleasing uniform colour on the culms. These points can be remembered
by the saying "Battle beetles better with clump-cured culms".
1.2 Preservative Treatment
Deterioration by insects, rot, fungi and fire is the most serious drawback to bamboo as a building
material. Traditional methods which are widely used to increase the durability of bamboo cost
very little and can be carried out without any special equipment or technical knowledge.
Harvesting and storing of bamboo in a proper way can increase the preservation of it considerably.
68
The following methods are most appropriate for use in Nepal. Natural preservation as when
bamboo is used in smoky room is also suitable and cheap for some building components.
1.2.1 Water Leaching
The most common treatment for protecting bamboo from Bostrichidae and Letidae
beetle attack is to leach out the starch, sugars and other water- soluble materials
from the freshly-cut stem by submerging them in water. Removal of starch and
sugar renders the bamboo unattractive to the beetles.
The bamboo must be completely under water, weighted down, if necessary, for
periods ranging from three days to three months for freshly-cut bamboo and two
weeks longer for partly-dry bamboo. Running water gives better results. Stagnant
water sometimes leads to staining of the bamboo.
The susceptibility of bamboo to borer attacks depends on the species, its starch
content, age of the column, felling season, and the physical properties of bamboo
(Plank, 1950). But further studies indicate that starch content in bamboo is an
important factor influencing the susceptibility to borer (Plank, 1950; 1951). The
damage caused by borers has been found to be proportional to the starch content
of the bamboo.
1.2.2 White Wash and Other Coatings
A variety of coatings appropriate for Nepal, such as tar, lime wash, tar and lime
wash, and tar sprinkled with sand, may be used. However, these are effective only
to the extent that they give a continuous coating at cut surfaces, exposed
internodes, abrasion and slits.
1.2.3 Brushing, Swabbing, Spraying and Dipping
These surface treatments are adopted for bamboo in storage or before it is given
impregnation treatments. Various chemicals are recommended for the protection
of bamboo.
Dieldrin 0.05 percent, or aldrin 0.15 percent, in aqueous emulsion give almost
complete protection against Dinoderus beetles for over a year. DDT, 7 to 10 % in
kerosene oil and BHC, 0.2 percent, were even more effective. Spray application
is recommended for stacks of bamboo.
69
Dipping green or partly dry bamboo for 10 minutes in a 5 % solution of DDT in

fuel oil produced a highly-significant degree of control of the Dinoderus beetle for
about 12 months. Soaking in the same solution for a longer period may result in
protection for 24 to 30 months. For exposed bamboo where rainfall is likely, oil-
borne insecticides should be prepared.
Except for treating large stocks, no expensive spraying equipment should be

required for the prophylactic treatment of bamboo. Hand-operated sprayers
should normally be suitable for protection against fungi and borers. A five-minute
dip is recommended in a solution containing 2 % borax and 1 % pentachlorophenol
in which 1 % is dispersed.
Other method available, but these are more complex or costly and need careful
processes. They include:
 Steeping, Boucherie process, stepping
 Capping Hot and cold bath process,
 Pressure treatment.
It should be noted that the water-leaching method seems to be the most relevant
bamboo preservation technique for the Nepali situation. White wash and other
coatings also suitable as Nepali people usually paint their houses annually during
Dashain festival.
1.3 Fire Retardant Treatment
Although not much work has been done on the protection of bamboo against fire, it is possible to
treat it with fire-retardant chemicals in the same way as wood. It is worthwhile to treat bamboo
with the following fire-resistant cum antiseptic composition:
Ammonium Phosphate - 3 parts

Boric Acid - 3 parts
Copper Sulphate - 1 parts
Zinc Chloride - 5 parts
Sodium Dichromate - 3 parts
Water - 100 parts
A few drops of concentrated hydrochloric acid should be added to the solution to dissolve the
precipitated salts.
1.4 Storage
Bamboo should be stacked horizontally on high, raised platforms, at least a foot above ground for
the prevention of termite attack. Bamboo should be stored so that all sides can be readily and
regularly inspected. Remove or treat attacked culms. At the storage yard, bamboo is air-seasoned
under cover six to twelve weeks to increase strength and avoid cracking. Kiln seasoning can do
the same job in two to three weeks, though at risk of splitting the outer membrane of several
70
species if the seasoning is too rapid.
To reduce fungal attack, guard bamboo against wetting by rain or contact with soil. Good
ventilation and frequent inspection are important. The storage ground should be thoroughly
inspected and cleaned before laying out the bamboo. All refuse and useless timber and bamboo
should be removed.
Any termite-infested area of ground should be sprayed with 4 % emulsion of DDT or a 0.2 %
emulsion of BHC or other suitable insecticide. Destroy termite colonies by breaking mounds open
and pouring in insecticide. The ground should have good drainage facilities.
71
APPENDIX - 2 FIRE-RETARDANT TREATMENTS FOR THATCH ROOF
1 General
Obviously, an exposed thatch surface is vulnerable to fire hazards. If this surface is

completely sealed with a thin incombustible layer, it becomes fire-retardant. Since the
roof has to be exposed to atmosphere and subjected to rain, this thin layer has to be water-
proof. Thus a layer of NEM plaster seems to be the simplest possible method.
1.1 Materials Required
 Mud
 Bhusa (chopped wheat or paddy straw)
 80/100 grade bitumen
 Kerosene oil
 Cow-dung
 Firewood.
 Empty barrels for the melting and mixing of the bitumen.
1.2 Method of Preparation
The quantities of different materials given below will be sufficient for fire-
retardant treatment for 100 m² of roof area.
1.2.1 Preparation of Stabilized Mud Mortar

 Collect three cubic meter of mud which contains 40 to 50 % sand
and Clay 60 to 50 % of clay.
 Mix 180 kg chopped wheat or paddy straw with the mud. The
wheat straw has to be chopped in 20 mm lengths, whereas rice
straw may be up to 50 mm in length. Old straw is preferred to the
fresh straw. Pour water over it and knead until the straw and mud
becomes an uniform paste.
 Knead three to four times a day until the straw decomposes. The
mix should not be allowed to dry during this process. It takes
generally seven days in summer and 14 days in winter to
decompose the straw.
 The stabilized mud mortar is then ready.
1.2.2 Preparation of Cut back1 (for NEM)
 Collect 85 kg of bitumen and 17 liter of kerosene
 Heat bitumen till it melts.
 Pour the melted bitumen into Kerosene and keep stirring till it is
thoroughly mixed. (Never pour Kerosene into bitumen.)
72
 The bitumen cut back1 for NEM is ready.
1.2.3 Preparation of NEM mortar
 Mix 90 kg bitumen cut back1 bitumen for NEM with the stabilized
mud prepared as stated earlier. Kneed thoroughly to a uniform
homogeneous mortar.
 The NEM is ready for application
1.2.4 Preparation of Bitumen cut back2 for Stabilized Mud Slurry
 Collect 20 kg of bitumen and 2 liter kerosene

 Heat bitumen till it melts.
 Pour the melted bitumen into kerosene and keep stirring until it is
thoroughly mixed. (Never pour kerosene into bitumen)
 The cut-back2 bitumen stabilized is ready.
1.2.5 Preparation of Stabilized Mud Slurry1 for NEM
 Mix 0.1 cubic meters cow-dung and 0.1 cubic meters of mud. Kneed
thoroughly by adding water until the mixture becomes a thin paste.
 Add 12 kg of cut-back bitumen to this mixture and mix thoroughly.

 Make a uniform, homogeneous paste by constant stirring.
 Stabilized Mud Slurry1 for NEM is now ready to use.
1.2.6 Preparation of Stabilized Mud Slurry2 for Fire Retardant Plaster
 Mix 0.1 cubic meters cow-dung and 0.1 cubic meters of mud. Kneed
thoroughly by adding water until the mixture becomes a thin paste.
 Add 12 kg of bitumen cut back to this mixture and mix thoroughly.
 Make a uniform, homogeneous paste by constant stirring.
 Stabilized Mud Slurry2 for Fire Retardant Plaster is now ready to use.
73
1.3 Method of Application
1.3.1 Dressing of Roof Surface
 Update all the connections by tying properly and add or replace

thatch if necessary.
 When the roof surface has been made uniform, it is ready to receive
fire- retarding plaster.
1.3.2 Application of Stabilized Mud plaster
 Start plastering with stabilized mud prepared as stated above. The

plastering has to start from top and proceed towards the bottom.
 The thickness of this plaster should be enough to make the surface

even and uniform such that it conceals all the bamboo strips and
runners on top of the thatch covering.
 Allow this plaster to dry and crack for a day.
 Fill the cracks next day. When the plaster is dry, some more cracks
may appear. Repeat the process until the whole wall surface
becomes completely free of cracks.
1.3.3 Application of Stabilized Mud Slurry1

 Make sure that the roof surface is free of cracks. Fill the cracks
with NEM if existing and let it dry.
 Apply two coats of stabilized mud Slurry1 over the stabilized mud
layer. The application can be either done by hand or with a brush.
1.3.4 Application of NEM plaster
 Start plastering with NEM, prepared as stated above, over the mud
slurry1. The plastering has to be started from top and continued
towards the bottom.
 The average thickness of this plaster should be 12 mm. However,
in the higher rain-fall areas, an additional 6 mm thickness NEM
plaster has to be applied.
 Allow this plaster to dry and crack for a day.
 Fill the cracks next day. When the plaster is dry, some more cracks
may appear. Repeat the process until the whole wall surface
becomes completely free of cracks.
1.3.5 Application of Stabilized Mud Slurry2

74
 Make sure that the roof surface is free of cracks. Fill the cracks
with NEM if it already exist, and let it dry.
 Apply two coats of stabilized mud slurry2 to the roof surface, over
the NEM plaster. The application can be either be done by hand or
with a brush.
 The roof is now fire-retardant. The application of stabilized mud

slurry2 has to be repeated every two to three years for regular
maintenance of the NEM plaster.
It is essential to render all the edges and corners of the roof with the
treatment, for better resistance to fire. The ceiling has to be plastered with
a layer of stabilized mud prepared as stated above.
75
APPENDIX - 3 Reference Materials
1. "A Manual of Earthquake-Resistant Non-engineered Construction", Indian Society of

Earthquake Technology, University of Roorkee, India.
2. "Protection of Educational Buildings Against Earthquakes," Prof. A. S. Arya.
3. "School Construction Manual", HMG/UNCHS (Habitat), Kathmandu, Nepal
4. "Live Better with Mud and Thatch", CBRI, Roorkee, India.
5. "Earthquake-Resistant Measures for Small Buildings", EAARRP, MHPP, HMG Nepal.
6. "Detailer's Manual for Small Buildings in Seismic Areas", Teddy Boen, Indonesia.
7. Bamboos: Field manual for community and private forestry in Nepal, Part 2, Edited and
Compiled by I.J. McCraken HMG/FAO/UNDP community Forestry Development
Project F.D. Ni. 20-1992
76
APPENDIX - 4 GLOSSARY
The following terms used in this document are explained below:
ABRASION means surface-wearing of a material due to friction with another material/materials

in contact.
ADOBE means sun-dried clay brick work with mud mortar.
ADVISORY means suggestion (of better construction techniques, materials, etc.) as opposed
mandatory rules whose enforcement is assured by law. Non-observance of "Advisory" rules will
be harmful to the owner.
ANCHORED means fixed with devices like nails, bolts, hooks etc. for ensuring better load
transfer.
ASYMMETRIC means of a plan or section or a view which does not have a similar half.
BAMBOO GROVES means group/groups of bamboo trees at the particular place where they are
growing naturally.
BASE PAD means a member of a relatively stronger material provided at the base end of a beam
/ post so as to transfer the load into a wider area so that damage of the wall/support due to local
point load effect is avoided.
BEARING means a supporting base material provided at the end of beams / joists to reduce the
concentrated load effect.
SEISMIC RESISTANT CONSTRUCTIONS means constructions in which the earthquake

resistant structural and non-structural elements are incorporated.
BOSTRICHIDAE means a kind of beetle (insect) that attacks the bamboo.
BOX EFFECT means the condition of a building in which it behaves like a single unit. Various
elements like horizontal and vertical reinforcements, diagonal bracing and lateral restrainers etc.
can bring about this effect.
BRIDGING MATERIALS means materials used for tying two or more joists to enhance
integrity of individual joists.
CGI SHEETS means corrugated galvanized iron sheets mostly used as roofing material.
MUD WALL means wall constructed with kneaded lump of mud and compacted.
CULMS means a single unit of bamboo tree
DALAN means a one side open enclosure on the ground floor of a rural building usually in front
face of the building.
77
DAMP PROOF COURSE means a relatively dense course with water proofing material
provided below the plinth level on the wall or side of the building to prevent migration of the
damp.
DECIDUOUS TREES means trees that lose their leaves annually usually in autumn.
DIAGONAL BRACING means the bracing of wall or other members fixed diagonally at
appropriate positions.
DINODERUS BEETLES means a kind of beetles that attacks bamboo.
EMBEDDED means placed firmly such that the bond is ensured.
FIRE RETARDANT means material or process that decelerates the fire affinity.
FLEXIBLE STRUCTURES means structures that do not have sufficient rigidity to resist
deflection.
FUNGAL ATTACK means a kind of infection ( by the fungi ).
GABLE BAND means a continuous band provided on the gable wall end to alleviate falling of
gable wall during earthquake.
GEOLOGICAL FAULT LINES means geological discontinuity lines on the ground surface
that may cause earthquakes.
HAZARDOUS means area or situation that deserves likely damage or destruction.
HORIZONTAL BAND means a continuous member that may be of wooden or bamboo or

reinforced cement concrete provided at plinth, lintel and roof level as required.
INSECTICIDE means chemicals that kill insects.
JHINGATI means traditional local burnt clay tiles for roofing usually of small size
LAND SUBSIDENCE means relative upheaval or lowering of land with respect to the adjacent
land.
LATERAL RESTRAINERS means elements provided to restrain the walls laterally in

horizontal direction (usually wooden keys ) to keep walls at position during horizontal load.
LATERALLY ESTRAINTS means condition of lateral resistance to falling.
LIQUEFACTION means a ground condition at which the soil completely loses the load bearing
capacity and flows like liquid and the foundation sinks in to the ground. It mostly occurs in
saturated sand layer.
LYETIDAE means a kind of beetles that attack bamboo.
MANDATORY means rule and regulations that are governed by a mandate and shall not be
offended.
78
MARSHY means low lying wet land.
METH (CAPITAL) means a member of relatively larger surface area provided at supporting
surface to distribute the load uniformly to the supporting posts
MICRO CONCRETE ROOFING (MCR) means roofing tiles having projected binding wires
embedded in to the tiles for anchoring.
MUD SLURRY means mud mixed with water so as to make as liquid to semi-liquid.
NATURAL HAZARDS means hazards caused by the nature itself. For example landslide, flood,
earthquake etc.
PLINTH means raised level of floor from the ground in a building to improve hygienic conditions
in building.
PLUMB LINE means the vertical line shown by a plum bob ( an object with weighty material at
the end and hung with a string )
PRESERVATIVE TREATMENT means treatment made to timber or bamboo to preserve from

insects or decaying.
PROPHYLACTIC means tending to prevent a disease or attack from harmful insects.
RUPTURE LINES means the lines of failure of an object.
SAP WOOD means a soft layer of wood between the bark and the inside hardcore.
SEISMIC SAFETY means safety level against the earthquake damage.
SILL means bottom level of an opening on the wall.
SOFT STOREY EFFECT means a poor structural behavior of a storey in a building in which a
particular lower storey has lesser rigidity than the stories above it.
STRUTS means cross ties provided between two main elements to maintain their integrity and
rigidity.
SUPERSTRUCTURE means the structure above the plinth level such as walls, roofs etc.
SWABBING means process of cleaning the bamboo or timber with cotton cloths.
SWAMP means soft wet land in which foundation should be erected only after proper treatment.
TERMITES means small insect, found chiefly in tropical areas, that is very destructive to timber
(popularly called white ant)
TERMITE INFESTED AREA means area where the termite are living, growing and cause
damage to timber or bamboo where they are living.
UN-STIFFENED means members that are not strengthened or has the less stiffness.
79
UNBALANCED OPENINGS means the opening not being in proper places and stories that may
cause unbalanced stiffness or soft storey effect.
UNSUPPORTED WALL LENGTH means the wall length without the buttresses or cross walls
provided to reduce damage.
VERNACULAR BUILDINGS means traditional buildings constructed in a locality.
VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT means the vertical ductile element provided to increase the
ductility of structure.
VULNERABILITY means vulnerability is the ratio of expected loss to the maximum possible
loss.
VULNERABLE means a structure is said to be vulnerable if the damage is expected at a given

hazard.
WATER REPELLANT means materials that repel or show no affinity to water.
WATER LOGGED means area saturated with water possessing lack of drainage.
WATER LEACHING means process of treating timber or bamboo in water to raise its resistance
to termites and beetles by leaching out starches, sugar etc.
NEM non-erodible mortar (mortar that is not easily erodible by rain water)
80
Personnel involved in the preparation of the 1st version of this code (NNBC 203: 1994 Guidelines for
Earthquake Resistant Building Construction: Low Strength Masonry)
The Advisory Panel consisted of :
Mr. UB Malla, Joint Secretary, MHPP Chairman
Director General, Department of Building
(Mr. LR Upadhyay) Member
Mr. AR Pant, Under Secretary, MHPP Member
Director General, Department of Mines & Geology
(Mr. PL Shrestha) Member
Director General, Nepal Bureau of Standards & Metrology
(Mr. PB Manandhar) Member
Dean, Institute of Engineering, Tribhuvan University
(Dr. SB Mathe) Member
Project Chief, Earthquake Areas Rehabilitation &
Reconstruction Project Member
President, Nepal Engineers Association Member
Law Officer, MHPP (Mr. RB Dange) Member
Representative, Society of Consulting Architectural &
Engineering Firms (SCAEF) Member
Representative, Society of Nepalese Architects (SONA) Member
Deputy Director General, Department of Building,
(Mr. JP Pradhan) Member-Secretary
The Subcontractor was BECA WORLEY INTERNATIONAL CONSULTANTS LTD. of NewZealand
in conjunction with subconsultants who included :
Golder Associates Ltd., Canada

SILT Consultants P. Ltd., Nepal
TAEC Consult (P.) Ltd., Nepal
Urban Regional Research, USA
Principal inputs to the standard came from :
Mr. YK Parajuli, TAEC

Mr. JK Bothara, TAEC
Mr. SL Sharma, TAEC
Mr. BK Upadhyay, TAEC
Dr. AS Arya, Professor Emeritus, University of Roorkee
Ms J Preuss, URR
Mr. J Preuss, URR
Revisions and Updated to the code came from:
Mr. Purna P. Kadariya, DG, DUDBC

Mr. Kishore Thapa, DDG, DUDBC
Mr. Mani Ratna Tuladhar, Sr. Div. Engineer, DUDBC
Mr. Jyoti Prasad Pradhan, Ex. DG, DOB
Mr. Bhubaneswor Lal Shrestha, Ex. DDG, DOB
Mr. Uttam Shrestha, Architect, Architects’ Module Pvt. Ltd.
Mr. Manohar Lal Rajbhandari, Sr. Structural Engineer, MR Associates
Mr. Amrit Man Tuladhar, Civil Engineer, DUDBC
81
Personnel involved in the first revision of this code: (NNBC 203: Guidelines for Earthquake Resistant Building
Construction: Low Strength Masonry)
Dr. Ramesh Prasad Singh, Secretary, WECS, GoN

Mr. Shiva Hari Sharma, Director General, DUDBC, MOUD
Mr. Sambhu K.C, Joint Secretary, MOUD
Mr. Maniram Gelal, Deputy Director General, DUDBC, MOUD
Mr. Dwarika Shrestha, Joint Secretary, MOUD
Mr. Sagar Krishna Joshi, former SDE, DUDBC, MOUD
Mr. Ganesh Prasad Pathak, Nepal Bureau of Standards and Metrology
Dr. Prem Nath Maskey, I.O.E, TU
Dr. Purushottam Dangol, ERTech
Dr. Jishnu Subedi, CORD
Dr. Haridarshan Shrestha, CORD
Dr. Santosh Shrestha, NHSSP
Mr. Nabin Malakar, Civil Icon Consultancy Pvt. Ltd.
Mr. Prakirna Tuladhar, SDE, DUDBC, MOUD
Mr. Machakaji Maharjan, SDE, DUDBC, MOUD
Mr. Suman Salike, SDE, MOUD
Mrs. Mina Shrestha, SDE, DUDBC, MOUD
Mr. Himal KC, SDE, DUDBC, MOUD
Mr. Parikshit Kadaria, SDE, DUDBC, MOUD
Mr. Manoj Nakarmi, SDE, DUDBC, MOUD
Mr. Pravin Shah, SDE, DUDBC, MOUD
Mr. Ganesh Karmacharya, SDE, DUDBC, MOUD
Mr. Lila Khatiwada, SDE, DUDBC, MOUD
Mr. Binay Charan Shrestha, former SDE, DUDBC, MOUD
Mr. Ramchandra Thapa, Engineer, DUDBC, MOUD
Mr. Surendra Vaidya, Engineer, DUDBC, MOUD
Mr. Bivek Sigdel, Engineer, MOUD
Mr. Chandra Kaji Gurung, Engineer, DUDBC, MOUD
Mr. Debendra Dev Khanal, Engineer, DUDBC, MOUD

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NEPAL NATIONAL BUILDING CODE

NBC 203: 2015

GUIDELINES FOR EARTHQUAKE

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2 General Requirements for Earthquake Resistance Construction .................................................. 4

4 Site Consideration .......................................................................................................................... 8

8 Openings in Walls ........................................................................................................................ 20

9 Floors and Roofs .......................................................................................................................... 22

10 Seismic Resistant Components.................................................................................................... 42

10.4 Gable Band .............................................................................................................................. 61

APPENDIX -1 HARVESTING AND PRESERVING BAMBOO FOR

1 Harvesting and Preservative Treatment....................................................................................... 67

APPENDIX - 2 FIRE-RETARDANT TREATMENT FOR THATCH ROOF............................ 71

APPENDIX - 3 REFERENCE MATERIALS ............................................................................... 75

Figure 5.1 : Recommended forms of buildings 11

A number of documents for better seismic-resistant constructions have been prepared

Other occupancy types of LSM buildings shall be designed by competent professional

In this standard, unless inconsistent with the context:

• Mud Mortar as a binder.

1.1 Type of Buildings Covered

2 General Requirements for Earthquake Resistance Construction

2.1 Proper Site Selection

2.2 Appropriate Planning

2.3 Good Foundation Resting on a Firm Base

2.4 Creating a Box Effect

• Horizontal bands well-connected to the vertical reinforcements and embedded

• Diagonal bracing (horizontal and vertical)

2.5 Better Bonding between Masonry Units

2.6 Controlled Size and Location of Openings

2.7 Light Construction

3.1 Boulder Stones

3.2 Quarry Stones

3.3 Dressed Stones

3.4 Stabilized Soil Block

3.6 Mud Mortar

Table 3.1: List of hardwood and softwood

HARD WOOD SOFT WOOD

3.9 Reinforced Concrete

4.2 Site Selection

4.2.1 Geological Fault or Ruptured Areas.

4.2.2 Areas Susceptible to Landslide.

Areas likely experience frequent landslides shall be avoided for

4.2.3 Boulder Hazard.

4.2.4 River Bank

It is preferable that river banks and areas susceptible to frequent flooding

4.2.5 Swamp/Marshy Area

Constructions on swamps or marshy areas should only be undertaken on

4.2.6 Steep Slope

4.2.7 Water-Logged Area

Sites with permanent water-logged areas should be avoided. However,

4.2.8 Filled Area

No building foundations shall rest on uncompact filled ground. If a

4.3 Site Investigation

4.4 Classification of Soil Type

SOIL DESCRIPTION OF SOIL TYPE REMARKS

b. Boulder bed and gravel.

e. Stiff to medium clay which are

Table 4.1: Classification of Soil Type

Hardwood 10065 10065 10065 12065 13075 14080