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Image c/o: KK Law
Advice
Example of a mainly successful project: Brock Commons — involved a high degree of collaboration: Integrated Design Process — design offered 3-4 options for every connection, which every stakeholder vetted — invested in building a mock-up, where many problems were solved in advance of construction — the design worked with standard panel sizes
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“Horizontal sprinkler pipes could be made from combustible materials as permitted by the Code for fire resistive construction”
Image c/o: StructureCraft
Advice
Bonding is an issue for smaller companies, putting smaller or new companies at a disadvantage. For example, a small company has a smaller revenue stream and cannot afford to tie up all of their cash flow for one project. Installers are disqualified from bidding if they cannot get bonding.
Advice
General advice to those new to mass timber construction: "The devil is in the details". For example, an experienced installer knows what a problematic connection looks like.
Advice
Mass timber construction is still in the experimental phase. Standardization will happen eventually.
Image c/o: StructureCraft
Advice
For an installer, Design Bid Build is the easiest to bid on, as the design is frozen. Design Build is much muddier, as not all aspects of the design are frozen.
Advice
The installer should be thought of as a consultant and a vital team member. For example, when installers are brought to the table at the design phase and give input into connection details, constructibility improves. However, when the installer is brought on too late, other consultants have already spent the money, and no one wants to add to the cost. The resulting problems need to be solved on site by the installer, adding time and cost.
Advice
Do not ignore the advice of someone who has experience.
Advice
The installer should be talking to consultants. Do not rely on the manufacturer to know the details for installation.
Image c/o: StructureCraft
Advice
Tracking every single detail is recommended (supplied by, installed by, etc... including every party). Every detail should be called out on the bid.
Advice
Innovation is needed around pre-fabricated facades that are quick to erect and keep the mass timber structure dry.
Advice
Use hybrid structural systems (timber/steel/concrete) to optimize for the best properties of each.
Advice
Fire departments are an overlooked stakeholder.
Advice
Not all contractors are equally familiar with mass timber requirements but many are eager to gain experience. Pre-qualification for mass timber experience should be undertaken as a selection criteria.
