Advice
Connection details dictate whether a CLT/mass timber project will actually go up quickly.
Focus in
Builder / Installer
Phases
Advice
Early discussions should involve all parties: installer, manufacturer, architect, engineer, owner/developer. Design with the people who will build the project, from fabrication to installation.
Advice
Contractors and owners need to understand lead times.
Advice
Have detailed conversations with concrete subcontractors to stress how important tolerance is. This is the most efficient method of achieving tighter tolerances, as concrete can't share models like steel can, for instance. An as-built survey helps, but adds time.
Advice
Develop and share a water protection plan together with the general contractor. Work with the GC: they care because they have to install. Suppliers may or may not care, and also may not have the necessary facilities (eg. membrane applying station)
Advice
There can be challenges if the general contractor is running the show, as the result can be poorer architecturally.
Advice
Tighter tolerances may or may not end up saving money in the end.
Advice
Having a concrete core is always a challenge because of the tolerance issue (concrete having large tolerances, mass timber having tight tolerances, and the challenge of trying to match the two together). If concrete is out of plumb, the higher the building, the worse the problem.