Eugene Korch’s Post

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Institute for Architectural Science and Technology (IAST)

Mass Timber Structures: Opportunities and Challenges While the sustainability and aesthetic appeal of mass timber are undeniable, it’s important to acknowledge the technical challenges it brings. Beyond the well-documented concerns around fire safety, acoustics, and water vulnerability, timber shrinkage poses a significant risk over time. Unlike materials like steel or aluminium, timber can experience substantial shrinkage, which may exceed the thermal expansion of aluminium façade profiles or the live load deflection values of a steel frame. This discrepancy introduces complex design and coordination challenges for façade engineers and other disciplines. As exciting as mass timber structures are, they also bring a host of risks that the industry might not yet be fully prepared to address. Are we ready to tackle these challenges at scale? I’d love to hear your thoughts—how can we innovate to mitigate these risks while leveraging the benefits of timber? #MassTimber #FacadeEngineering #ConstructionChallenges #SustainableDesign

Excellent except for modern concepts of fire risk

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