The International Code Council is looking into potential code changes to accommodate taller cross-laminated timber (CLT) structures.
Most building codes limit a CLT structure's height. CLT is being promoted by the timber industry and gaining interest among architects and engineers. The material could provide an economic boost to some struggling communities that have been impacted by a decline in the domestic timber industry.
CLT has also been touted by some as helping to reduce the carbon footprint of urban construction through the use of a renewable building material. Trees as small as 5 inches in diameter at the top, and those damaged by pests and wildfire, can be used in the inner layers of CLT products.
Researchers are still investigating how CLT buildings withstand fire and earthquakes in high-seismic regions. Building codes in some areas including Oregon allow designs using new technology like CLT in some cases, but only after rigorous testing and an intensive approval process.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Sep 6, 2018
Coalition of mayors around the globe pledge net-zero buildings by 2030
New construction to produce as much energy as it consumes.
Codes and Standards | Sep 5, 2018
New White Paper on Metal Panel Fire Safety Released
Has detailed information for insulation, fire safety requirements in U.S., other countries.
Codes and Standards | Aug 31, 2018
Trade war could make adaptive reuse more attractive
Higher cost of building materials could make rehab a better financial bet.
Codes and Standards | Aug 30, 2018
Metrics should guide strategy for schools seeking LEED certification
Assessing current status helps direct where improvements can have greatest impact.
Codes and Standards | Aug 29, 2018
The 2018 IAPMO solar and swimming pool codes now available
For installation and inspection of public and private swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs.
Codes and Standards | Aug 28, 2018
New York’s green roof program needs reform
Despite incentives, few owners add vegetative roofs.
Codes and Standards | Aug 24, 2018
Resilience, sustainability emphasized in plans for new 23,000-acre city in the Philippines
“A backup for when Manila fails.”
Codes and Standards | Aug 23, 2018
Cities promote deconstruction of old homes with mixed results
Market factors complicate efforts to recycle material from old structures.
Codes and Standards | Aug 22, 2018
Oregon is first state to change building code to allow tall mass timber buildings
Statewide alternate method allows early technical consideration and approval.
Codes and Standards | Aug 21, 2018
First mass timber panel made from structural composite lumber gets APA certification
Said to be much more cost effective than CLT options.
