Now, more than ever, customers are becoming more sustainability-conscious and placing greater pressure on developers and building owners to lower the carbon footprint of new construction.
The heightened awareness of climate change is driving leaders in the construction industry to be more intentional when it comes to projects, construction processes, and design.
Quality Buildings’ prefab model for wood framing and sustainability go hand in hand. Among the top benefits of choosing prefabrication over traditional stick-build include:
- Reduced Material Waste
- Reduced Transportation Emissions
- Reduced Noise and Air Pollution
- Advanced Assembly Method Reduces Energy Per SF
- Potential to Reduce 21 Million Tons of CO2
According to a survey by Deloitte, prefabrication construction will likely continue to be
a preferred way of working and delivering projects. 46% of respondents said they will likely invest in prefabrication and modular construction capabilities in the coming years as they look to capitalize on building in controlled environments to drive operational efficiencies. When compared to stick-built construction, the prefab method supports greater standardization across the building process and allows construction firms to actively address productivity problems affecting the quality of the project and pace of delivery.
The Mass Timber Revolution
In addition to the growing acceptance of the prefab construction model for commercial wood framing, there is increased interest, among developers, architects, and general contractors, in using mass timber when designing multifamily and other mixed-use projects. The following 3 reasons highlight the benefits and sustainability of these beautiful wood designs.
Strength & Health Promoting Aesthetics
Mass timber construction provides exceptional strength and inspires design aesthetics not possible with traditional construction. These products consist of pre-engineered wood panels, columns, and beams that are glued or fastened together. Options include Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT), Dowel-Laminated Timber (DLT), Nail-Laminated Timber (NLT), and Glue-Laminated Timber (GLT). Mass timber products are used for load-bearing walls, floor, and roof construction. In addition to the aesthetic attributes, the health benefits of wood are an emerging topic of interest among researchers. A study commissioned by Forest and Wood Products Australia found a correlation between the presence of wood and employees’ overall satisfaction at work, lower absenteeism, higher levels of concentration, and improved productivity.
Efficiency & Quality
These prefabricated mass timber panels can be assembled by fewer workers and go up 30% faster than a building using steel or concrete. Not only can you reduce costs by reducing the construction time, but you can also increase your revenue by occupying your building faster. Mass timber wall panels also provide thermal benefits and can help make building envelopes more airtight and thus, more energy efficient.
Safety & Security
Another notable benefit of building with mass timber is its fire-resistant properties. Like heavy timber, mass timber has inherent fire resistance that allows the wood to be exposed, while still achieving the two-hour fire-resistance rating. Fire resistance is measured from the start of the fire up until the point that the material is no longer functional. Resistance is measured in minutes: FR 30, 45, 60, or 120. To achieve the designed fire resistance period, each mass timber panel within the building must be designed for the fire-resistance period and the specific loading applied to that panel. Fire resistance testing of mass timber panels is to ISO 834, which is the same standard used for doors. Additionally, the char rate of wood has been well documented and the 2018 International Building Code (IBC) identifies mass timber as an approved, fire-resistant building material.
As more developers, architects, and building owners embrace mass timber, Quality Buildings can help you determine if using it is right for your next project. Have questions? Contact Scott Charney.