TFG Events & Workshops

Ricky McLain

Senior Technical Director

WoodWorks

Mass Timber Structural Design: Engineering Modern Timber Structures
For many years, exposed heavy timber framing elements have been permitted in U.S. commercial and multi-family buildings. Today, one of the exciting trends in building design is the growing use of mass timber—i.e., large solid wood panel products such as cross-laminated timber (CLT) and nail-laminated timber (NLT)—for floor, wall and roof construction. Like heavy timber, mass timber products have inherent fire resistance that allows them to be left exposed and still achieve a fire-resistance rating. Because of their strength and dimensional stability, these products also offer an alternative to steel, concrete, and masonry for many applications, but have a much lighter carbon footprint. It is this combination of exposed structure and strength that developers and designers across

This presentation will provide a detailed look at the structural design processes associated with a variety of mass timber products, including glued-laminated timber (glulam), cross-laminated timber (CLT), and nail-laminated timber (NLT). Applications for the use of these products in gravity force-resisting systems under modern building codes will be discussed. Other technical topics will include an introduction to lateral systems common in mass timber buildings, mass timber floor vibration criteria, and connection options. Mass timber framing components are often left exposed to act as a finish while taking advantage of their aesthetics. As such, they are often required to provide a fire-resistance rating demonstrating their ability to maintain structural integrity in the event of a fire. This session will also discuss structural design of mass timber elements under fire conditions.

Ricky is WoodWorks’ in-house expert on tall mass timber buildings, providing analysis and guidance on architectural, fire and life safety, and structural design topics. He supports the AEC community both directly and collaboratively with WoodWorks Regional Directors, and guides the development of education and resources related to tall mass timber buildings in the U.S. Prior to this emphasis, Ricky’s role encompassed all building types and wood systems. He also has extensive experience in lead engineer roles related to structural design, project management, and construction administration. Ricky is Executive Director of the Structural Engineers Association of Vermont, and a member of numerous committees and councils related to building design.