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Heavy Timber

Heavy Timber

Heavy Timber construction features noncombustible walls and large wooden interior members, offering fire resistance and structural strength for various buildings.

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Definition

Heavy Timber refers to a type of construction that requires noncombustible exterior walls with a minimal fire-resistance rating of two hours, and interior members that are laminated or solid wood, along with heavy plank or laminated wood floors and roofs.

Purpose

Heavy Timber construction provides a combination of structural strength and fire resistance. It is often used in buildings where both aesthetic and structural properties of exposed wood are desirable, such as in lodges, churches, and historic buildings.

Examples of Use

  1. Lodges: Using heavy timber frames for rustic aesthetic and structural integrity.
  2. Churches: Employing heavy timber for large, open interior spaces.
  3. Historical Buildings: Preserving the traditional construction methods of historic structures.
  4. Commercial Buildings: Integrating heavy timber elements for modern yet natural design.

Related Terms

  • Mass Timber: Engineered wood products used for large structural applications.
  • Post and Beam: A construction method using large timber beams and posts.
  • Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT): A type of engineered wood used for structural applications.

Notes

Heavy Timber construction must comply with specific building codes and fire safety regulations. It combines traditional craftsmanship with modern engineering to create durable and aesthetically pleasing structures.

Related Terms