Mass timber is a materials and design approach that offers opportunities to transform the future of the commercial building industry and the environment. The term pertains to the utilization of advanced techniques to combine wood products in diverse layered configurations to produce durable and versatile structures. This may be accomplished through various methods such as gluing, nailing, or doweling.
Mass timber can serve as a low-carbon alternative to steel and concrete, with cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glulam being popular examples of contemporary mass timber products. According to one study, mass timber achieved a 19% reduction in carbon emissions compared to a functionally equivalent steel structure.
As a proponent of innovative design practices, Stantec is implementing mass timber for 100 Rock Row, an eight-story office building in Westbrook, Maine, and Sixth & Blanco, a five-story mixed-use development in Austin’s Clarksville neighborhood. 100 Rock Row is Maine’s first mass timber structure, striving to improve the wellness and productivity of its tenants by delivering 30% fewer carbon dioxide emissions. At Sixth & Blanco, Stantec serves as executive architect alongside Swiss firm Herzog & de Meuron. Mass timber is intended to reduce the development’s carbon footprint and contribute to its long-term strength and sustainability goals.
" }Paying tribute to Maine's timber heritage, 100 Rock Row is the state's first CLT (cross-laminated timber) office building. It combines renewable materials, daylight, and biophilic design as part of a lower-carbon building approach.
Mass timber is gaining recognition as a low-carbon and versatile construction material. Interest in mass timber has grown due in part to its fire-resistant properties, seismic performance characteristics, and attributes related to construction efficiency and occupant experience. This overview highlights the key advantages of mass timber, emphasizing its growing role in architecture and low-carbon building strategies.
Fire and seismic safety
Contrary to popular belief, wood exhibits distinctive fire-resistant properties when properly engineered and detailed. This resilience is further supported by the development of a protective char layer, which depends on the timber’s exposure (whether one-sided or three-sided). This char insulates the interior of the wood from fire and thereby diminishes the rate of combustion.
Because of its fire-resistant properties, mass timber is permitted for use in taller structures under applicable code requirements. The International Building Code permits certain mass timber structural types up to 18 stories. These systems undergo fire testing to evaluate the structural capacity over time.
Fire safety is not the sole benefit of mass timber construction. Studies have demonstrated that they can endure earthquake simulation tests without significant damage, residual displacement, or structural failure. Because timber is relatively lightweight, mass timber structures may perform differently during seismic events than heavier structural systems.
Enhanced construction capability
The prefabricated nature of mass timber components contributes to the ease and efficiency of construction, which may result in quieter, faster, and cleaner jobsites. The controlled manufacturing environment and use of Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) technology support precise fabrication, with pre-cut openings and predetermined assembly and fastening methods. This could reduce on-site labor requirements and shorten construction timelines.
" }Sixth & Blanco, located in Austin's historic Clarksville neighborhood, redefines urban hospitality with its use of mass timber, blending heritage, connection, and modern functionality in an indoor-outdoor space.
Shallower excavation
In comparison to concrete, the reduced weight of timber assemblies typically diminishes foundation requirements, facilitating opportunities for vertical expansion on existing structures.
Biophilia and occupant wellbeing
Studies have shown that the innate human affinity for nature positively influences behavior. Access to green spaces may reduce stress and impact mental restoration.
Natural materials, especially wood in interior spaces have been associated with lower heart and respiratory rates and activation of the parasympathetic nervous system.
Agri-business and diverse-species forests
Mass timber construction advocates consider it part of a regenerative building industry. Advocates suggest this may support forest diversity, which is crucial as monocultures of tree species do not foster long-term ecosystem health.
By embracing mass timber construction, additional considerations extend beyond its capacity for carbon storage, inherent beauty, and renewability. To support these objectives, designers should prioritize responsible materials management and future disassembly and reuse. Responsible mass timber construction may contribute to healthier forests, soil, water, and air, while also enhancing the beauty of buildings and satisfying a desire for connection with one another and with nature.
A version of this blog was originally published by Page, now Stantec.
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