Embracing Mass Timber Construction- Balancing Sustainability, Safety, and Innovation

Mass timber is gaining traction as a sustainable construction material. Its lower embedded carbon and faster build times make it a desirable option. However, the fire retardants used to protect these materials often contain hazardous chemicals.

The Hidden Dangers of Fire Retardants

Fire retardants play a critical role in fire protection systems, but dangerous substances can be released when treated timber is exposed to fire or water. These chemicals pose significant health risks, including hormone disruptions, infertility, and cancer. In addition, some fire retardants are so persistent they can remain in the environment for decades.

Implementing Effective Water Management

The good news is that we have solutions to mitigate these hazards. For example, advanced leak detection technology and water management practices can help safeguard mass timber projects.?

A well-designed water management plan should be implemented, covering both environmental and building systems water.?

The Importance of Intelligent Water Management

To ensure the longevity and safety of mass timber buildings, it's crucial to establish an active water management plan during construction. Contractors and subcontractors should collaborate to develop a robust plan that keeps the building as dry as possible. Here's a list of potential strategies for your consideration:

1. Designated Rain Crew: Assemble a team to remove water from horizontal surfaces during rain events physically.
2. Water Migration Prevention: Implement temporary curbs/flashing at openings, caulking spline cover plates between panels, taping joints between panels and columns, apply transient waterproofing membranes, and use a factory or site-applied waterproofing to protect exposed wood. Consider temporary or permanent physical protection, such as temporary roofing or tenting.
3. Aggressive Dry-In Strategy: Focus on high-rise and low-rise buildings' walls and roofs. Include acclimatization as part of the plan.
4. Wet Works Permitting: Establish a formal strategy to manage water usage during construction, including clear cleanup protocols and readily available equipment for water releases.
5. Humidity Control and Monitoring: Continuously monitor and control interior humidity levels throughout construction.
6. Moisture Content Documentation: Regularly measure and document the moisture content of exposed timber members.
7. Technology – Modern water management technology can monitor interior humidity levels, alert the project team, or shut off valves when leaks are detected. These systems can also be used for ongoing monitoring after construction, enabling proactive problem-solving and defect prevention.

In addition, Intelligent water management helps prevent delamination, warping, and discoloration. Although adhesives have improved, and discoloration prevention is well-understood, avoiding these issues from the outset remains essential.

Prioritizing Safety and Environmental Responsibility in Mass Timber Construction

Mass timber construction has made great strides in recent years, with notable projects like London's tallest mass timber office building, Toronto's Limberlost Place, and the USA's tallest timber building in Milwaukee. This progress demonstrates the potential for mass timber in residential and commercial projects.?

As an industry, we must prioritize fire safety and address toxic pollution to ensure a safe, sustainable, and environmentally friendly future. Tight project margins and timelines can hinder progress, but raising awareness and putting human health first can pave the way for a brighter tomorrow.

Stay safe and build responsibly!