Mass timber is often attached to the stigma of being more expensive than other building materials. Because of this, some people assume it only makes sense for one-off projects where innovation is celebrated but repeatability is not. Is this true, or do its other benefits result in overall cost efficiency? If it is true, how can we expect to build the number of new housing units needed across our country in a sustainable and affordable manner? Typical multi-family housing developments are in the range of 4-6 stories, often utilizing podium or pedestal construction with 1-2 stories of steel and concrete topped with 3-5 stories of light wood framing. Beyond these heights, building codes have historically required steel or concrete framing and, to justify the added costs of these materials, projects often go much taller. This has created a critical gap in housing developments in the range of 6-12 stories. Can mass timber multi-family projects make financial sense in the 4-6 story range, used in conjunction with light wood-frame systems? What new opportunities will the 2021 International Building Code create for mass timber housing in the 6-18 story range?
Mass timber has been successfully used in housing projects from single family homes to the currently-under construction 25 story Ascent tower in Milwaukee. This video discusses the code and design implications of using mass timber in multi-family housing.
Are you considering a mass timber project and would like free design support? WoodWorks provides free project assistance - let us know how our Regional Directors can help you:
Ricky McLain is a structural engineer and mass timber specialist at WoodWorks. This video and this channel are based purely on Ricky's own observations, experiences and opinions and do not necessarily reflect the opinion nor beliefs of WoodWorks.
Thumbnail credit: Marcus Kauffman, Oregon Dept. of Forestry
