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 | Feb 28, 2020
Bay Area communities struggle with what to do about rising sea level
Policies include sea walls, levies, and relocation.
Codes and Standards | Feb 27, 2020
Cell phones present a safety hazard at job sites
Use of ear buds, headphones banned by some contractors.
Codes and Standards | Feb 26, 2020
American Concrete Institute releases 2020 codes, specifications, and practices
ACI Collection features guidance on structural concrete construction and rehabilitation.
Codes and Standards | Feb 25, 2020
New ISO standard for optimizing building use and reusing and recycling components released
Aim is to realize full potential value of a building throughout its life cycle.
Codes and Standards | Feb 21, 2020
Architects push back on proposed uniform design mandate for federal architecture
AIA speaks out against measure.
Codes and Standards | Feb 20, 2020
City-owned buildings to go carbon-free in Los Angeles
Mayor commits to goal for new and extensively renovated structures.
Codes and Standards | Feb 19, 2020
Public is willing to volunteer to maintain green infrastructure
Perceived benefits make residents willing to help public works departments.
Codes and Standards | Feb 18, 2020
Recent Dept. of Energy grants emphasize grid-interactive building technology
National labs, universities, businesses selected for total of $74 million in funding.
Codes and Standards | Feb 14, 2020
At least 13 states create incentives for utilities to use demand response programs
Practice optimizes power grid, incorporates more renewable power.
Codes and Standards | Feb 13, 2020
Living Future Institute’s JUST program helps measure progress on sustainability, social justice
Functions as a transparency platform for organizations to disclose their operations.
