The Task Group on Combustible Construction is in the process of evaluating a proposed code change request related to buildings of encapsulated mass timber construction (EMTC). As part of the analysis of the code change request, an impact analysis is required that includes a cost-benefit analysis.
Hanscomb was hired to provide a cost-benefit analysis and to compare the estimated value of the following:
1. The cost of constructing a building of mass timber (unprotected) versus a building constructed of encapsulated mass timber (e.g. mass timber protected with a double layer of Type X gypsum board) versus a traditional concrete and steel building.
2. The time to build a building of mass timber construction (unprotected) versus a building of encapsulated mass timber construction versus a traditional concrete and steel building.
3. The annual maintenance costs of building of mass timber construction versus a building of encapsulated mass timber construction versus a traditional concrete and steel building.
For the purposes of this study two sets of conceptual floor plans and elevations have been created:
1. A 12 storey building with a Group C major occupancy (residential) where each storey is 6,000 m2 in floor area.
2. A 12 storey building with a Group D major occupancy (office) where each storey is 7,200 m2 in floor area.
The mechanical behaviour of timber structures is significantly influenced by the stiffness, load-carrying capacity and ductility of the joints. This study is focused on the stiffness of dowelled steel-to-timber joints, which were subjected to tensile loadings at different orientations with regard to the grain direction (0°, 30°, 45°, 60° and 90°)...
Timber construction has become completely modernized. It has gained considerably in market share with respect to competing building materials and is dominated by systems such as frame and solid timber construction.
Every timber construction is determined by its structure. Hence it is essential to know the connections and relationships from the design stage right through to the construction phase. Systems in Timber Engineering takes a whole new approach to this subject. It is a comprehensive, analytical, and visually organized treatment, from the simple single-family house to the large-scale multistore structure. It includes the building envelope, which is so important for saving energy, and systems for ceilings and interior dividing walls, which are so essential from the vantage point of construction.
This work uses plans, schematic drawings, and pictures to show the current and forward-looking state of the technology as applied in Switzerland, a leading country in the field of timber construction.
