In order to evaluate the wind resistant performance of the roofs of conventional wooden houses appropriately, the present paper focuses on the lifting strength of the rafter to pole-plate joint, which is regarded as the weakest point of roof structures. Pulling-up tests are conducted using full-scale test specimens of the joints with different connecting methods, roof slopes, and wood species. Based on the results, the effect of each parameter on the strength is made clear. Furthermore, in order to evaluate the strength of the joint where different connecting methods are used together, element tests are also conducted for these connecting methods. The results indicate that the strength of the joint with each connecting method can be reasonably evaluated by the formulas specified in the current design standard. It is also found that even when different connecting methods are used together, the connection strength can be evaluated by these formulas. Considering that the strength is significantly affected by wood deterioration, an accelerated deterioration test is carried out on the wood specimens. The results of the present study may provide useful information for developing a model for predicting the wind-induced damage to the roof structures of existing wooden houses.
