RC113 JulyAugust 2024 - Magazine - Page 16
MASS TIMBER
In addition, the aesthetics of mass timber buildings o昀昀er a unique
appeal and can be identi昀椀ed as a main factor behind the popularity
of these types of structures. Diverging from the traditional look of
concrete or steel structures, mass timber builds are characterized
by exposed wood elements creating a distinctive atmosphere, often
complemented by glass and steel accents contributing to a visually
striking architectural style.
However, mass timber’s acoustic performance presents challenges
compared to concrete. Its lighter weight inherently leads to poorer
acoustic properties, requiring additional measures to achieve desired
sound insulation levels. Strategies such as adding concrete toppings
or acoustic membranes are employed to enhance acoustic performance while maintaining the exposed wood aesthetic. Addressing
acoustic concerns involves strategic design decisions, including the
addition of concrete layers or acoustic membranes to the mass timber
structure. While solutions like drop ceilings or insulation can improve
acoustics, they often conceal the visually appealing wood elements,
presenting a design dilemma. As a result, the focus is primarily on
enhancing acoustic performance from above while preserving the
aesthetic appeal of exposed mass timber below.
Building within and outside of code
The surge in mass timber discussions, not only at EllisDon but
throughout the industry, can be attributed to signi昀椀cant shifts in the
building code over the last decade. In 2015, the National Building
Code expanded to allow for six-story buildings up to 18 metres,
followed by another pivotal change in 2020 introducing a new construction type, Encapsulated Mass Timber, allowing for structures up
to 12 storeys. Alongside this, new requirements emerged, particularly regarding timber exposure, necessitating a minimum amount of
covering to comply with 昀椀re safety regulations. This poses a challenge because with a mass timber structure, the aim is to celebrate the
timber, not cover it up, prompting builders to explore noncompliant
pathways or alternative solutions, which becomes more complicated.
Keeping up with demand
Despite the rapid evolution of the building code to accommodate
larger mass timber structures with increased exposure, it often
struggles to keep pace with market demands. Consequently, many
projects end up navigating alternative solution pathways due to their
complexity and deviation from standard code compliance. These
alternative pathways for mass timber are di昀昀erent from that of a
structure built with concrete or steel. Early engagement with a code
consultant and subsequently, local building o昀케cials, is imperative to
navigate mass timber’s intricate code landscape to identify compliant
pathways for di昀昀erent building types.
While the code landscape with mass timber is more complex
compared to conventional materials, it is improving. The next code
change, currently being introduced, will allow for even taller mass
timber buildings with even more exposure, signaling progress in the
right direction.
Comparing the costs between mass timber, concrete, and steel
Building smarter solutions
that realize your vision
You need a partner who is proactive, one who can work with you to develop better
ideas. We bring our best thinking and teams to solve your toughest challenges.
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photo credit: CDPQ Infra
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