The team behind UK CLT is on a mission to enhance the construction industry by harnessing the potential of reclaimed or secondary timber. By transforming discarded wood into cross-laminated secondary timber (CLST), they aim to not only reduce waste but also contribute to a more sustainable future in building practices.

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The UK has a significant amount of waste timber that is often discarded or downcycled, leading to missed opportunities for reuse. Colin Rose , Julia Stegemann , and Jonas Breidenbach from UK CLT discussed their innovative approach to reclaiming timber and the broader implications for sustainable construction during a recent conversation. They emphasized the importance of utilizing secondary timber to displace concrete and steel, thereby enhancing the sustainability of building materials.

The Journey to Reclaimed Timber

Colin, a professor of environmental engineering at UCL, shared how the idea of reclaiming timber began as part of a PhD project focused on reusing building components. “I was trying to look at the systems for how a city can enable more reuse of the stuff that’s currently being discarded,” he explained. This led to practical experiments, including reclaiming floorboards from a building slated for demolition and transforming them into usable timber products.

The team believes that reclaimed timber not only extends the life cycle of materials but also enhances carbon sequestration. “The more of that timber source we have, the more concrete and steel we can displace,” Colin noted. This approach aligns with the principles of the circular economy, which emphasizes cycling materials at their highest value.

The Aesthetic and Structural Benefits of Reclaimed CLST

One of the standout features of CLST is its unique character and history. Jonas highlighted that reclaimed timber carries stories from its previous life, adding aesthetic value to new constructions. “It’s just 300 years in total of history that you take and you manufacture it to something which, when it’s then locally used, gives a tangible source where it comes from,” he said.

From a structural perspective, the team has found that reclaimed CLT performs comparably to virgin timber. “From a mechanical perspective, there’s no difference,” Jonas stated, referencing their latest research that indicates reclaimed timber can meet or exceed the structural values of new materials.

Overcoming Challenges in the Circular Economy

Despite the promising potential of reclaimed timber, the UK CLT team acknowledges several challenges. One significant hurdle is the lack of established grading systems for reclaimed timber, which can impact confidence in its mechanical performance. “There’s a need for a grading system that works for secondary timber,” Colin explained.

Additionally, the team is focused on building relationships with demolition contractors to ensure a steady supply of high-quality feedstock. “The quality of the feedstock we get into the process has a dramatic impact on all manufacturing that happens,” Jonas noted, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in the supply chain.

Future Directions for UK CLT

Looking ahead, UK CLT aims to secure larger-scale demonstration projects that can showcase the practical applications of reclaimed timber in construction. They are also exploring innovative production methods, such as mobile factories that can process timber on-site, thereby reducing transportation emissions and costs.

As the conversation wrapped up, the team expressed optimism about the future of reclaimed timber in the construction industry. “We want people to look again at all things that they’re currently discarding and see not a problem of waste, but an opportunity,” Colin concluded.

Conclusion

UK CLT is at the forefront of a movement that seeks to redefine the role of timber in construction. By reclaiming and repurposing timber, they are not only addressing waste but also contributing to a more sustainable and circular economy. As the industry evolves, the lessons learned from UKCLT’s innovative practices will serve as a blueprint for future projects, encouraging a shift towards more responsible building materials.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is reclaimed timber?

Reclaimed timber is wood that has been salvaged from old buildings or structures and repurposed for new construction projects.

2. How does CLST compare to virgin timber?

Research indicates that CLST performs similarly to virgin timber in terms of structural integrity and mechanical properties.

3. What are the benefits of using reclaimed timber?

Using reclaimed timber reduces waste, extends the life cycle of materials, and contributes to carbon sequestration, making it a more sustainable choice.

4. What challenges does CLST face?

Key challenges include the lack of established grading systems for reclaimed timber and the need for reliable supply chains for high-quality feedstock.

5. What future projects is UK CLT pursuing?

UKCLT aims to develop larger-scale demonstrator projects and explore innovative production methods, such as mobile factories for on-site timber processing.

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The mass timber industry is at a pivotal moment, balancing the demands of sustainability with the realities of production and project management. In a recent episode of the Mass Timber Group Show, hosts Nic Wilson and Brady Potts engaged with Jean-Marc Dubois, the Director of Business Development at Nordic Structures, to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing this innovative sector.

The Commoditization Debate: Customization vs. Standardization

A significant topic of discussion was the ongoing debate about the commoditization of cross-laminated timber (CLT). Dubois emphasized that while uniform design and production can streamline processes, a one-size-fits-all approach is impractical due to the diverse characteristics of wood species and geographical factors. “You cannot just have one size fits all manufacturing of raw material based on Dimension Lumber,” he stated, highlighting the importance of optimizing resource usage based on specific wood characteristics.

Nordic Structures distinguishes itself by offering a comprehensive package that goes beyond just CLT and glulam. This includes design-assist services and transparent pricing, which are crucial for large-scale projects. Dubois noted, “It’s much more than just a product; you’re not just buying glue lam or CLT; you’re buying all of the wraparound support that comes with it.”

Capacity Challenges in the Mass Timber Industry

Despite a strong production capacity in North America, Dubois pointed out that the industry's absorption is inconsistent. Project delays can significantly impact manufacturers' schedules and cash flow, creating a need for a more stable project pipeline. “We have not fulfilled the minimum requirement for full utilization in our plant... it’s just an economic reality,” he explained, stressing that project slippage can lead to severe financial repercussions for manufacturers.

He advocated for a focus on workforce housing and mid-rise structures rather than solely on tall buildings, which often attract more attention but do not necessarily address the pressing need for affordable living spaces. “The ability to build a good quality structural product that can be used and is efficient... should allow for urban workers to actually live in the cities that they work in,” Dubois remarked.

Sustainability and Carbon Pricing: The Path Forward

Sustainability remains at the core of Nordic Structures' mission. Dubois expressed a strong commitment to capturing carbon at scale, stating, “I want to put carbon into buildings instead of putting it into the air.” He highlighted the growing importance of carbon pricing in the mass timber industry, noting that more projects are now considering their carbon footprint as a critical factor in decision-making.

As the industry evolves, Dubois sees a shift towards non-traditional uses for mass timber, particularly in sectors like data centers and warehouses, which are increasingly seeking sustainable solutions. “We’re seeing more and more of that as things progress,” he noted, indicating a positive trend towards integrating mass timber into various building types.

The Future of Nordic Structures and Mass Timber

Looking ahead, Nordic Structures aims to continue expanding its operations while reducing its carbon footprint. Dubois shared that the company has grown from a single sawmill to multiple facilities, now managing 16 million acres of forest land under sustainable practices. “We want to continue to make an impact at scale with good social governance,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in their operations.

In conclusion, Dubois called for a collective effort within the industry to address project slippage and enhance the long-term viability of mass timber. “We need more successful business; there’s a huge opportunity for everyone in the industry,” he asserted, encouraging stakeholders to collaborate and innovate for a sustainable future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the main challenge facing the mass timber manufacturing industry today?
The primary challenge is project slippage, which affects manufacturers' schedules and cash flow, leading to inconsistencies in production capacity.

How does Nordic Structures differentiate itself in the mass timber market?
Nordic Structures offers a comprehensive package that includes design-assist services and transparent pricing, focusing on large-scale projects rather than just selling products.

What role does carbon pricing play in the future of mass timber?
Carbon pricing is becoming increasingly important as more projects consider their carbon footprint, influencing decisions in the mass timber sector.

Why is there a focus on workforce housing in mass timber construction?
Focusing on workforce housing addresses the urgent need for affordable living spaces in urban areas, allowing workers to live closer to their jobs.

What is Nordic Structures' vision for the future?
Nordic Structures aims to expand its operations sustainably while reducing its carbon footprint and engaging with local communities to ensure responsible resource management.

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As California grapples with a housing crisis and increasing wildfire risks, mass timber emerges as a sustainable solution poised to reshape the state's construction landscape. In a recent episode of the Mass Timber Group Show, host Brady Potts engaged with Scott Ehlert, CEO, and Mark Little, Director of Product Innovation at Fabric Mass Timber, to discuss the transformative potential of mass timber in California's $145 billion construction market.

The Need for Mass Timber Solutions in California

California faces a daunting challenge: the state needs to build 2.5 million housing units in the next five to six years to meet demand and control skyrocketing home prices, which recently surpassed $900,000 for the first time. Ehlert emphasized the urgency, stating, "This is a beast of a problem that current traditional building methods just can't solve."

The introduction of mass timber offers a promising alternative. Ehlert noted that mass timber construction aligns with existing building methodologies, allowing for faster and more efficient construction without requiring a complete overhaul of current practices.

Wildfire Fiber Utilization and Forest Health

The dual crises of housing and wildfires in California are interconnected. Ehlert explained that the state is desperate to remove excess biomass from its forests, which poses a significant wildfire risk. "We need to go more vertical on that mass timber," he said, highlighting how mass timber can utilize this excess fiber while addressing housing needs.

By leveraging wildfire-thinned wood, Fabric Mass Timber aims to create a sustainable supply chain that not only supports housing development but also promotes healthier forests. This approach is crucial as California continues to face devastating wildfires.

The Impact of Assembly Bill 2446 (AB 2446)

A significant legislative development is California's Assembly Bill 2446, which mandates a 20% reduction in embodied carbon in building materials by 2030 and a 40% reduction by 2035. This bill affects approximately 70% of the state's construction industry, including commercial buildings over 10,000 square feet and residential buildings with more than five units.

Ehlert believes that AB 2446 will catalyze mass timber adoption, stating, "We think 2446 is just going to make that growth curve just straight up and down." The bill serves as a bridge between the current knowledge gap and the incentives needed to drive mass timber's integration into California's construction practices.

Future Factory Plans in Redding, CA

Fabric Mass Timber is on track to open California's first mass timber factory in Redding, with plans to begin operations by mid-2028. This facility will not only produce mass timber products but also serve as a hub for education and training, addressing the skills gap in the construction workforce.

Ehlert and Little emphasized the importance of a customer-centric approach, stating, "Our approach is really to deliver projects, not just products." By providing comprehensive support to builders and developers, Fabric Mass Timber aims to empower a broader base of contractors to confidently adopt mass timber solutions.

Innovative Solutions for Homeless Housing

In addition to addressing the housing crisis, Fabric Mass Timber is focusing on innovative solutions for homeless housing. The company is collaborating with organizations like YSA in Oakland to develop mass timber-based systems that maximize density and efficiency.

Little explained, "We can fit 32 units on the footprint of four existing tiny homes," showcasing the potential for mass timber to provide more effective housing solutions. The design philosophy emphasizes biophilic benefits, creating calming environments for vulnerable populations.

A Customer-Centric Approach to Mass Timber Adoption

Fabric Mass Timber is committed to enhancing the customer experience by providing tools and resources that simplify the adoption of mass timber. Ehlert noted, "We want to empower builders to tap into the benefits of mass timber without feeling intimidated."

The company is also working with local colleges to develop curricula that address the entire supply chain, from forestry to manufacturing and installation. This educational initiative aims to build a knowledgeable workforce ready to embrace mass timber as a standard in construction.

Conclusion

Mass timber is not just a construction material; it represents a holistic approach to solving California's pressing challenges of housing and wildfire management. As Fabric Mass Timber prepares to launch its factory and expand its innovative solutions, the potential for mass timber to revolutionize the state's construction landscape is becoming increasingly clear.

Whether you're an architect, builder, or policy maker, the message is clear: mass timber is a sustainable, efficient, and beautiful solution that can help California meet its housing needs while promoting forest health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is mass timber, and why is it important?
Mass timber is an engineered wood product used in construction, valued for its sustainability, strength, and versatility, providing a low-carbon alternative to steel and concrete.

How does AB 2446 impact the construction industry?
AB 2446 mandates a reduction in embodied carbon in building materials, significantly affecting a large portion of California's construction industry and promoting the use of sustainable materials like mass timber.

What are the benefits of using wildfire-thinned wood in mass timber construction?
Utilizing wildfire-thinned wood helps reduce fire risks while providing a sustainable source of material for construction, promoting healthier forests and addressing housing needs.

How is Fabric Mass Timber addressing the housing crisis?
Fabric Mass Timber is developing innovative mass timber solutions that maximize density and efficiency, particularly for homeless housing, to provide more effective and sustainable living options.

What educational initiatives is Fabric Mass Timber pursuing?
The company is collaborating with local colleges to develop curricula that cover the entire mass timber supply chain, from forestry to manufacturing and installation, to build a knowledgeable workforce.

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As urban landscapes evolve, mass timber is emerging as a key player in sustainable construction. In a recent episode of the Mass Timber Group Show, hosts Nic Wilson and Brady Potts delved into the latest trends in timber, focusing on Denver's ambitious River Mile development and innovative construction solutions like Carpentry Plus’s Timber Core modular system.

Denver’s River Mile Development: A City Within a City

The River Mile project is a monumental undertaking, spanning 600 acres in downtown Denver, with plans to increase the city’s developable square footage by 40%. This massive development, which includes the area surrounding the Broncos Stadium, is poised to transform the urban landscape into a vibrant community featuring residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

Brett McCormack, a facilities expert, highlighted the significance of this project, noting that it represents a “city within a city.” The River Mile aims to integrate sustainable practices, with a potential focus on mass timber construction, which is gaining traction in the area. The project is not just about building; it’s about creating a livable, walkable community that prioritizes sustainability and innovation.

Mass Timber’s Role in River Mile Development

The River Mile development may be looking to incorporate mass timber as a core component, if one reads between the lines, with 20% of the student projects from the Rocky Mountain Real Estate Challenge mandated to utilize this sustainable material in conceptual plans for the space. This initiative, sponsored by Revesco Properties, the developer behind the project, reflects a growing trend in urban development where sustainability is prioritized.

Innovative Solutions: Timber Core Modular System

A significant breakthrough in mass timber construction is the introduction of the Timber Core modular system by Carpentry Plus. This innovative solution addresses a critical gap in the market—efficient and sustainable core systems for mid and high-rise buildings.

Traditionally, concrete or steel cores have dominated the construction of these structures, often leading to lengthy installation times. However, the Timber Core system allows for rapid installation, with modules that can be set in place in about an hour per floor. This efficiency not only reduces construction time but also enhances safety and sustainability, as the system is crafted from sustainably sourced materials.

Russ Brotnov, the CEO of Carpentry Plus, emphasized the system's benefits: “Timber Core is a faster, safer, and more sustainable stair solution.” The modular design allows for flexibility in construction, making it suitable for various building types, including those that utilize hybrid systems.

Denver’s 550,000 Sq. Ft. Mass Timber Residential Complex

Among the exciting developments in Denver is a 550,000 square foot mass timber residential complex, set to become one of the largest of its kind in the United States. This project, located near the Broncos Stadium, is expected to redefine urban living in Denver, combining modern design with sustainable practices.

As the construction industry continues to embrace mass timber, this residential complex will serve as a benchmark for future projects, demonstrating the material's potential in creating large-scale, eco-friendly housing solutions.

The Future of Mass Timber in Denver and Beyond

The momentum behind mass timber in Denver is indicative of a broader trend in the construction industry. As cities grapple with sustainability challenges, mass timber offers a viable solution that aligns with environmental goals. The River Mile development, Walmart’s new campus, and innovative products like Timber Core are paving the way for a future where mass timber is a standard in urban construction.

As Nic Wilson and Brady Potts concluded in their discussion, the future of mass timber is bright, with exciting developments on the horizon. The integration of mass timber into Denver’s urban fabric not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the city but also contributes to a more sustainable and resilient built environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is mass timber, and why is it important?
Mass timber is an engineered wood product used in construction, valued for its sustainability, strength, and versatility, providing a low-carbon alternative to traditional materials like steel and concrete.

What is the River Mile development?
The River Mile is a 600-acre urban development project in Denver aimed at increasing the city’s developable square footage by 40%, integrating residential, commercial, and recreational spaces with a focus on sustainability.

How does the Timber Core modular system work?
The Timber Core system allows for rapid installation of modular stair cores, with each module capable of being set in place in about an hour per floor, significantly reducing construction time and enhancing safety.

What are the benefits of using mass timber in construction?
Mass timber offers numerous benefits, including reduced carbon emissions, faster construction times, and improved aesthetic appeal, making it an attractive option for modern urban development.