BLOOMFIELD, CA
We have been fortunate to have the opportunity to work on this multifamily project outside of Petaluma, CA. This project uses Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) structural panels and was designed by CABN with TBE as code and technical consultant, research, detail development, local consultant coordination and architect of record. CABN will further coordinate fabrication, delivery and onsite assembly and finish.
Construction with CLT is having a moment right now in the US, deservedly so, because it is a fantastic technology. Since 2015, thousands of buildings ranging from modest cabins up to 25 story office towers have gone up across the US.
Construction with CLT is having a moment right now in the US, deservedly so, because it is a fantastic technology. Since 2015, thousands of buildings ranging from modest cabins up to 25 story office towers have gone up across the US.
What is CLT? CLT are structural wood panels, consisting of multiple layers (3, 5, 7, 9 are common) of solid lumber, glued together, with each layer alternating the lumber direction. panels are manufactured up to 10 feet wide and up to 50 feet long. Thicknesses range from 4 inches to
Why is CLT fantastic?
It is extremely strong – allowing thin floors, daring overhangs, and great earthquake resistance.
- It allows for very fast assembly – panels are cut in the factory and assembled on site with a crane. The large panel sizes typical of CLT translate into fewer pieces to be placed, fewer joints to be fastened. The wood surfaces of CLT panels that can be left exposed mean that fewer finish materials must be purchased and installed.
- CLT is resilient when exposed to fire. While the concept may seem counterintuitive, thick pieces of wood form a charred layer on the outside when exposed to fire, which slows the progression of fire towards the interior of the piece. Compare this to steel, which softens and bends when exposed to fire without a protective cover or coating.
- Wood is beautiful. Buildings constructed with CLT are able to expose the surfaces of CLT panels to the interior. The benefits of exposure to natural materials in our buildings extend beyond the aesthetic to physical and emotional health, and beyond. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2095263521000479, https://www.archnet.org/publications/9767)
- CLT is sustainable. Wood is a renewable resource. Wood sequesters carbon. Factory cut panels reduce waste, and keep the waste that is generated in a clean, controlled environment where recycling is more efficient and more likely to happen.