This year’s International Mass Timber Conference took place at the Oregon Convention Center in Portland March 26–28. It was a welcome opportunity to meet with many architects, builders, engineers, suppliers, and industry professionals, and we came away with several important points that we will reference moving forward. Preparing for the Unknowns There’s…
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With the tight schedules of all parties involved in a build, any timing setbacks can snowball into big problems. That’s why mixing framing materials like steel and heavy timber can slow down the process, as each fabricator needs to align their delivery and installation logistics perfectly for the project to continue on schedule. Missed deadlines,…
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As trees grow, they diligently work to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere — and that work doesn’t stop once they’re harvested, processed, and used for construction. Timber continues to store the greenhouse gas in its fibers when it’s used as part of a structure. Remarkably, one cubic meter of timber can store up to one metric ton…
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Wooden beams and posts have been used as a framework for structures since ancient times, even before the widespread use of nails and other fasteners. After more than a thousand years, timber structures are standing today that used intricate joinery in their construction instead. In the New World, timber use continued for houses, farm buildings,…
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With the majestic Rocky Mountains as a backdrop, timber frame structures have always been perfectly at home in the West. The timber recalls mountain settlers building sturdy homes and ranches, tales of strength and survival, and rough-and-ready cowboys intent on taming the rugged lands. Timber structures are part of the lore and cultural identity…
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No sport honors its tradition and heritage quite like golf, particularly when it comes to celebrating its old courses and clubhouses. As golf’s popularity began to rise in the late 1800s and early 1900s, clubs were established across the United States, and their associated clubhouses were typically built to embody the timeless charm of old-world…
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Any and all efficiencies are welcomed on a project, and timber frame builds are naturally no exception. But where can those advantages be found? Shortcuts in material quality is a non-starter; expert manpower isn’t cheap; time savings are rare; and mother nature plays a huge role in meeting any deadline. There is one aspect, however, that can…
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Embracing timber as a primary construction material brings forth a multitude of benefits that extend far beyond aesthetic appeal. The innate qualities of timber, marked by its versatility, sustainability, and weight-to-strength ratio, have positioned it as a favorable choice in contemporary construction. However, heavy timber stands out not only…
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As with any new build or renovation, building codes and regulations affect the design and construction of a project, from the concept stage to its final details. With growing interest in, and popularity of, timber construction, the International Code Council (ICC) is regularly reviewing, revising, and expanding codes and clearances for all types…
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Heavy and mass timber construction is on the rise. How does fire safety factor into the public’s desire for sustainable, natural construction elements, and what should architects be aware of when designing with beautiful, durable, and efficient timber material? Up to Code Due to the expanding market for mass timber structures, in 2021 the…
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