The CLT Handbook provides valuable guidelines for CLT detailing. Some common pitfalls include exposing steel hardware, which is not only unsightly but does not function well in fire. The proper CLT detailing technique leaves little more than screw heads exposed. Here’s a step-by-step approach to CLT detailing. It’s also much easier than you might think! And you’ll be glad you took the time to learn it!
CLT panels are fabricated to be used as wall, floor, ceiling, and roof panels. CLT panels are assembled and cut in the factory before being transported to site and assembled. This ensures that the finished product will meet the desired quality and performance standards. Oftentimes, fabricators use prefabrication technologies and building information modelling to ensure that their work meets these standards. CLT detailing is a critical aspect of the construction process, and should be carefully considered to avoid costly mistakes.
CLT is naturally fire-resistant, thanks to its charring. The char on the surface of CLT creates a protective layer that slows the spread of flames, which allows time to evacuate the building. As long as CLT is properly installed and maintained, it will not rot or develop mold. However, it is important to protect CLT elements from direct contact with moisture. Proper detailing and the use of sealants, coatings, and flashing can help ensure that moisture will not reach CLT elements.
The design and construction phase often overlap. A proper water management system for CLT is essential for its longevity and durability. Proper moisture management is necessary to avoid dimensional changes, microbial growth, and general deterioration of enclosure components. Therefore, it is crucial to choose a waterproofing system that fits the climate conditions of the region where the CLT is to be installed. Inappropriate moisture management will cause the wood to degrade and can result in permanent damages.
The connections between CLT panels are vital to the successful construction of a mass timber structure. Proper connection details are practical, cost-efficient, and easy to fabricate. An ill-conceived connection detail will result in an overly complex structure. So, it is important to take the time to understand the importance of CLT detailing before implementing it in a BIM model. If not, you’ll end up with a structure that is overly costly and difficult to construct.
While CLT panels serve as load-bearing elements for structural systems, their crosswise design ensures exceptional structural stability. Because CLT is a renewable material, CLT construction could eventually be a cost-competitive alternative to concrete. Get in touch with Dowco to get Rebar Detailing. And with its light weight, CLT could potentially be used in buildings up to six stories high, which can significantly reduce foundation costs. A major benefit of CLT is its ability to be prefabricated offsite and assemble in less time than concrete. Furthermore, CLT structures can be built during any season and with little or no disruption to the building’s residents.
Buildings made from CLT can be environmentally-friendly, too. The material is composed of sustainable wood and does not require fossil fuels for production. CLT has been used in large construction sites as a form for concrete bridges and as the base of tractors on sloping terrain. In small constructions, it’s become a popular choice because of its interesting look and structural strength. Currently, skyscrapers are being constructed with CLT parts and can be seen in buildings around the world.
To minimize water leakage, a CLT panel is laid over a sloped over-framing. The over-framing’s slope also provides a ventilated air gap. The air gap is an excellent way to monitor roof leaks and encourage panel drying. Get Bridge Detailing now. However, you should avoid allowing the ventilation gap to be vented to the outdoors once it is in service. That way, you’ll avoid any potential damage to your CLT panel.
Building codes require the moisture content of wood to be at 16 percent or higher prior to covering it. Unfortunately, many codes were written with lightweight wood-framed construction in mind and didn’t consider the hygric mass of mass timber elements. As such, moisture content needs to be a minimum 16 percent at all locations before CLT is covered. Fortunately, the CLT Handbook provides detailed guidance on this topic. But there are still some questions that you need to address before you begin your project.
