The American Wood Council (AWC) and International Code Council have released a joint publication, Mass Timber Buildings and the IBC.
The document provides an overview of requirements for mass timber construction as found in the 2015, 2018, and 2021 International Building Code (IBC). It highlights historic changes beginning with the 2015 International Building Code, that allow for construction of mass timber buildings with taller heights and areas than was permitted for buildings of wood construction types (Types III, IV, and V) prior to the 2015 IBC.
The publication reviews the 2015 IBC recognition of cross-laminated timber (CLT) and the reorganization of heavy timber provisions in the 2018 IBC. It also reviews the significant changes in the 2021 IBC and International Fire Code (IFC) for tall mass timber construction.
“Given the anticipated demand across the country for taller mass timber buildings, this publication provides the building safety community with comprehensive explanations of the new regulations,” said AWC vice president of codes & regulations, Kenneth Bland.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Dec 7, 2017
Many coastal states performing poorly to protect beaches, coastlines
The most vulnerable regions fare the worst in new study.
Codes and Standards | Dec 6, 2017
2017 wildfires highlight gaps in California’s approach to fire safety in urbanized areas
Better hazard mapping and retrofit programs could help.
Codes and Standards | Dec 5, 2017
Guide for understanding medical monitoring requirement of OSHA silica standard released
Center for Construction Research and Training gives advice on new regulation.
Codes and Standards | Dec 4, 2017
Trump tax proposal would kill historic tax credits
Developers would lose up to 20% discounts on some redevelopment projects.
Codes and Standards | Nov 30, 2017
Asheville, N.C. rezoning favors pedestrians, could change city’s character
Focus is on layout and look of new buildings rather than use.
Codes and Standards | Nov 29, 2017
Many New York City landlords have not addressed new flood codes
City revised building codes after Superstorm Sandy, but many owners not required to upgrade.
Codes and Standards | Nov 28, 2017
Nail-Laminated timber Canadian design and construction guide released
Includes practical strategies and guidance with lessons from real-life projects.
Codes and Standards | Nov 27, 2017
New standard to monitor building sealing performance
Increased understanding of how materials act when stretched and compressed is the goal.
Codes and Standards | Nov 27, 2017
Denver voters approve green roof mandate
Buildings of 25,000 sf or larger required to install vegetative roof or PVs.
Codes and Standards | Nov 21, 2017
USGBC adopts ‘RELi’ resilient building and design standard
The standard prescribes methods for designing more resilient buildings and communities.