MASS TIMBER
MASS TIMBER BUILDINGS ARE TAKING THE SPOTLIGHT AS THE NEXT SUSTAINABLE BUILDING STYLE
Mass Timber buildings are quickly taking the spotlight as the next sustainable building style.
Known for its breathtaking use of natural wood in place of concrete, there are more than 1,700 mass timber projects across the United States as of January 2023. Tate, Inc. reports that wood “is taking the construction industry by storm and becoming more common in building structures today.”
Why Mass Timber?
One of the few downsides to mass timber construction is the difficulty of running mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) elements, like air conditioning. Because of the construction methods and lack of internal walls or covered ceilings, it’s not easy for builders to find space to fit large ducts and vents. Many builders opt to leave ducts uncovered, but some property owners find it unsightly. The solution to the problem, however, is installing an Underfloor Air Distribution System (UFAD). Download this PDF to find out more or read here.
A UFAD system can be tucked neatly under a raised floor, using small, flexible tubes and multiple diffusers to distribute air evenly throughout the space. In addition to being more aesthetically pleasing, especially in open mass timber buildings, UFAD systems provide a wide variety of benefits:
- More energy efficient due to a well-designed return air path
- Reduced energy costs
- Longer life cycle by using smaller, energy efficient distributors that don’t need to work as hard to cool or heat a space
- Improved air quality by pushing air up and out of the space, instead of recirculating it for long periods of time
- Flexible wires and pipes for easy relocation
- Better air ventilation and circulation by working with the laws of physics and removing old, warm air at the ceiling and introducing cool air from the floor.
- Allowing you to get more floors in the same amount of space!
With easier installation and increased energy efficiency, UFAD systems can save you money on HVAC costs and offer higher returns on your investment. They’re truly the perfect cost-saving companion for mass timber projects.
UFAD address all of these concerns, and much more.
NEXT GENERATION OF UFAD
Your guest’s comfort is paramount to the success of your business, school, library or any project! AirFixture UFAD systems are an excellent, economical choice for comfort and air quality.
With easier installation and increased energy efficiency, UFAD systems can save you money on HVAC costs and offer higher returns on your investment. They’re truly the perfect cost-saving companion for mass timber projects.
PROJECTS
MASS TIMBER QUESTIONS
Mass timber construction offers a variety of benefits for those wanting to build or remodel. First, mass timber construction is more eco-friendly than traditional methods as it relies on renewable resources and results in reduced carbon emissions. Secondly, mass timber construction also allows for faster construction times since the prefabricated components can be quickly assembled on site with minimal waste. Thirdly, mass timber construction is safer than other types of construction due to its fire-resistant properties. Mass timber buildings also require less energy and water for maintenance compared to traditional methods, resulting in lower long term operating costs. Finally, mass timber construction enhances the aesthetic appeal of a building with its unique design capabilities.
Ultimately, mass timber construction provides a number of advantages, making it an ideal solution for those looking to build or remodel. With its environmental and economic benefits, mass timber construction is becoming increasingly popular as more people are recognizing the value it offers.
When planning a mass timber construction project, there are a few things to consider. It is important to prepare a budget and plan for you project. Make sure that all costs are accounted for upfront. Additionally, it’s important to determine if building codes and regulations accommodate for mass timber construction in the area where the project is being built, as this may affect the complexity of obtaining necessary permits.
Furthermore, it’s important to make sure that qualified professionals are involved in the project. These professionals should be familiar with mass timber construction and have experience working on such projects. Finally, it’s also important to consider any sustainability goals you have.
Mass timber buildings are designed to be extremely fire-resistant, making them an ideal solution for areas with high risk of fires. The main fire safety consideration for mass timber buildings is the use of noncombustible materials such as steel and concrete, which should be used in combination with the wood components. Additionally, it’s important to ensure proper installation of fire suppression systems such as sprinklers and smoke detectors to further reduce the risk of a fire. In addition, it’s important to make sure that combustible materials around the building are kept away from sources of ignition.
Finally, it’s also important to consider any local building codes or regulations regarding fire safety when planning a mass timber construction project. By following these considerations, it’s possible to create an environment that is both safe and aesthetically pleasing.
Come back here to find our newest mass timber news sources!
Contact us today to learn how AirFixture can help on your next mass timber project!
