Focus in

Design

Roles

Advice

Integrating MEP only after model completion results in significant delay (in one example, material ordering was delayed by 6 weeks).

Advice

Using a single CAD model works well, with collaborative input from all trades (rather than attempting to combine multiple models from the different trades). This opens up more opportunities for accurate pre-drilling.

Advice

A bracing plan is important, and has a large effect on installation. Establish a bracing plan early and integrate it into the connection details. A good bracing plan allows the connections to assist with temporary stability and requires over-designing, but saves time, money, headaches, and patching.

Advice

Plan sequencing for fast placements. Connections often don’t work as a result of placement sequence. For example, more expensive connections can be used (eg Megant-style) where the assembly order doesn’t matter, but if cost is saved on the connections, time is wasted on site with necessary last minute adjustments.

Advice

Engineers should take care when copying and pasting details from one project to another. Some details cause a lot of installation problems (resulting in increased cost/time).

Advice

Sizing comments: 20’ x 30’ grid spacing is problematic for installation due to panel sizes, double or triple storey walls or columns present unique installation problems, even in terms of coordinating bracing with floor levels. It is difficult to keep 30’+ walls plumb.Dedicated to helping developers, engineers, installers, manufacturers, and more, we help you discover the growing power of mass timber’s functionality, cost-efficiency, and sustainability.