The recent increase in demand for mass timber construction and the 2021 IBC inclusion of Type IVA, IVB and IV construction which will allow mass timber buildings to be built to 18 stories, has stimulated the design and code official community to ramp up its knowledge of this innovative construction. Universities have taken notice and are creating mass timber institutes to meet this demand of knowledge. Dr. Patricia Layton discusses mass timber, including the types of mass timber currently available and the buildings that they are being used in. She discusses the research and innovation process that are being done with this type of construction which helped bring mass timber into the 2021 building codes. Also, discussed will be the advantages mass timber brings to construction and buildings, and where the wood comes from as well as it’s sustainability. Highlighted in this presentation will be the recently completed first mass timber building project on the campus of Clemson University, and plans for a second building.

Learning Objectives:

1. Describe the state of the wood products market and how you fit within its framework
2. Summarize the various types of mass timber products available and the research conducted to make them viable solutions
3. Determine why you should ask for wood in your next building construction project and the benefits of doing so
4. Discuss the role that forests have in sustainable buildings

Funding provided in part by the Softwood Lumber Board.