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Advice
Mass panel installation advice: — Full scale mockup is a benefit, allows best practices to be developed and solutions identified prior to construction. — “Install prefab guardrail systems between columns on the perimeter and pre-determine tie-off points for worker safety” — Manufacturers need to clearly identify and locate balanced panel lifting points. — Pre plan and optimize truck load stacks, delivery schedules and erection sequencing
Advice
Peel and stick membranes on CLT panels is inadequate for inclement weather. The best solution is to erect rapidly and install building envelope ASAP.
Advice
Virtual design and construction modelling (VDC) is very important, as it identifies constructibility issues and associated costs, helping reduce the number of changes and speeds up the schedule. It is also a form of quality control on timing, scheduling, coordination, fine details, and safety.
Advice
Prefabrication advantages: — Higher quality components that are more precisely manufactured are produced, which reduces installation time, schedule length, and site deliveries. — Waste on site is reduced, saving disposal costs — Concurrent off site work can take place in controlled conditions. — Change orders are reduced in number — Mass panel penetrations are well lighted up, making MEP runs easier — Negligible shimming and furring and adjustments — Reduced number of fastening steps on site results in the structure being enclosed more quickly
Advice
Use simplified floor plans with stacked units.
Advice
Use HSS tube column connections. This results in smaller cross sections needed for structural purposes and lower column component weight. Additionally, many columns could be installed manually.
Advice
Elimination of beams and column grid optimization reduced the number of pieces and crane lifts required.
Advice
Using a flat slab concept for CLT panels reduced the volume of wood used.
Advice
Limit areas of innovation to the structural system.
Advice
Invite mechanical and electrical trades to assist in design early. (Model will be more complete, also speeds up installation on site).
Advice
Involve the mass timber supplier early. (Small contributions in connection designs can make a difference in erection speed).
Advice
Engage the “authority having jurisdiction” early to ensure timely approval.
Advice
Scrutinize each design proposition to look for pitfalls.
Advice
Involve fire protection engineers.
