To better understand what’s fueling this momentum and how it might shape the projects of tomorrow, we’ve outlined the key factors below.

Code Updates Green-Light Tall Timber

Perhaps the most significant catalyst for mass timber’s surge is the building code itself. The 2021 International Building Code (IBC) introduced three new categories — Types IV-A, IV-B, and IV-C — that formally recognize and regulate tall timber buildings. These updates effectively gave mass timber the green light to go vertical, allowing structures up to 18 stories (or 270 feet). The code didn’t just expand height limits; it also established clear fire-resistance paths and guidance for exposed timber, providing the certainty that engineers, code officials, and insurers needed to proceed with confidence.

This change has had ripple effects across the industry. Developers now see mass timber as viable for mid- and high-rise projects that previously would have defaulted to steel or concrete. And with the 2024 IBC expanding allowable areas and exposed timber provisions even further, permitting has become simpler and approvals more consistent. In essence, the code has caught up with the science, opening the door for mass timber to compete in a much broader segment of the construction market.

Policy Tail Winds & an Embodied Carbon Focus

Policy is the other major force propelling mass timber forward. In a shift that aligns perfectly with timber’s natural advantages, federal and state agencies are increasingly prioritizing low embodied carbon (LEC) materials in their procurement processes.

The General Services Administration, for example, is investing more than $3 billion under the Inflation Reduction Act to reduce embodied carbon in federal buildings. The act incentivizes using building products with lower global warming potential, providing more than $2 billion to procure those that meet its requirements for LEC materials.¹ Although the current LEC criteria focus on asphalt, concrete, glass, and steel, the broader framework sets a precedent that strongly benefits biogenic materials like wood. As these policies mature, timber stands to play an even more prominent role in helping agencies and private developers meet carbon-reduction targets.

Mass timber’s advantage is simple but profound: It’s both a low-carbon material and a carbon store. Each cubic meter of timber locks away nearly a ton of CO₂, while its production generates far less embodied carbon than concrete or steel. For owners seeking LEED, WELL, or other net-zero certifications, that dual benefit makes timber an unmatched ally in decarbonization.

Speed & Cost Certainty Through Off-Site Fabrication

Beyond policy and code changes, mass timber’s rise is also driven by practical project-delivery advantages. Cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glued-laminated timber (GLT) components are fabricated with precision in controlled factory environments, then shipped to the site for rapid assembly. This off-site fabrication offers several critical benefits, including predictable quality, faster dry-in times, and reduced site labor and waste.

Studies and real-world projects show that timber structures can often be erected 20% faster than cast-in-place concrete systems.² That speed translates to cost savings on general conditions, financing, and carrying costs, especially in tight urban markets where time is money. The panelized nature of CLT systems also reduces weather exposure and rework, mitigating risk and improving schedule certainty.

Market Proof & Momentum

Momentum matters — and mass timber has it. According to WoodWorks, approximately 2,600 mass timber projects were either built or under construction in the US as of September 2025.³ This shows that what was once experimental is now proven at scale, with each completed project building confidence among lenders, code officials, and insurers, creating a positive feedback loop that accelerates adoption.

High-profile projects, like Oregon’s Carbon12, Milwaukee’s Ascent MKE (the world’s tallest mass timber building), and Google’s and Walmart’s timber campuses, have given the material visibility and credibility. These success stories demonstrate that mass timber isn’t just viable, it’s desirable. Developers who were once hesitant now see a clear business case: buildings that lease faster, perform better, and tell a sustainability story that resonates with tenants and investors alike.

Tenant Appeal: The Biophilic & Brand Advantage

While code, cost, and carbon drive adoption, design appeal shouldn’t be underestimated. Exposed timber interiors deliver a biophilic, wellness-oriented aesthetic that modern tenants love. Natural wood surfaces create a warm, calming environment that supports occupant well-being and productivity, benefits that are increasingly quantifiable in post-occupancy studies.

For developers, this translates to faster lease-up, stronger tenant retention, and improved brand value. Many companies, especially those competing for top talent, see timber buildings as extensions of their sustainability commitments. Exposed wood signals environmental responsibility and authenticity, qualities that align with contemporary corporate culture.

Therefore, it’s no coincidence that designers are pushing to take advantage of the changes to the 2021 and 2024 IBC that allowed larger areas of exposed timber.⁴ For them, timber is more than a structural choice; it’s a design statement.

Why It Matters Now

Taken together, these drivers of code evolution, carbon policy, off-site efficiency, market proof, and occupant appeal paint a clear picture of why mass timber’s rise in America is accelerating. It’s not a single trend but a convergence of many. The result is a construction landscape where timber is not merely an alternative but a competitive mainstream option for a growing range of project types.

This momentum also signals a broader shift in how the industry defines performance and value. The conversation has moved beyond energy efficiency and operational carbon to include embodied carbon, well-being, and lifecycle resilience. Mass timber sits at the intersection of all three, making it an elegant solution that meets environmental and economic goals simultaneously.

Looking Ahead

As more states adopt tall timber provisions and federal agencies expand LEC material procurement programs, the future of mass timber in America looks strong. Advances in digital design, hybrid systems, and prefabrication will only enhance its versatility. At the same time, regional supply chains are maturing, bringing CLT, GLT, and other engineered wood products closer to project sites, further improving cost and carbon performance.

However, realizing the full potential of mass timber requires expertise. Proper detailing, moisture management, and joinery are critical to long-term durability and code compliance. That’s where experienced timber fabricators and builders make the difference.

Building the Future, Together

The rise of mass timber is transformational in how America is building. Architects, developers, and contractors — with the right partners — can harness its structural performance, aesthetic warmth, and carbon-storing power to deliver projects that meet today’s expectations and tomorrow’s standards.

At Mid-Atlantic Timberframes, we’ve seen firsthand how thoughtful craftsmanship and precision fabrication turn mass timber concepts into enduring landmarks. Whether you’re planning your first timber project or scaling up to a larger, taller application, contact our team to help you navigate its design, engineering, and construction with confidence.

Sources

1. “GSA pilots Buy Clean Inflation Reduction Act Requirements for low embodied carbon construction materials,” US General Services Administration, accessed on November 11, 2025.
2. “An Overview of Emerging Construction Technologies,” NAIOP Research Foundation, accessed November 18, 2025.
3. “Mapping Mass Timber,” WoodWorks, accessed on November 11, 2025.
4. “Tall Mass Timber Trends and Exposed Timber Allowances,” WoodWorks, accessed on November 11, 2025.

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Preserving Historic Structures with Parametric Digital Twin Technology

At Löfstad Castle in Sweden, researchers have used parametric digital twin technology to help preserve a centuries-old landmark. A digital twin is a virtual representation of a building, a “living” model that can monitor a structure, collect real-time data, and simulate scenarios like design changes or weather events, showing their potential impacts.

By creating a digital twin and combining sensors, cloud computing, and data modeling, the researchers built a system that evaluated the castle’s ventilation and energy efficiency and detected hidden moisture issues. This allowed conservators to then make data-driven restoration decisions, including the design of sustainable climate controls. While Löfstad Castle is a masonry structure, this technology can be applied to historic timber frame buildings as well, offering a powerful tool to monitor structural health, prevent material degradation, and extend the lifespan of heritage architecture through adaptive preservation.

To explore mass timber possibilities for your next project, contact our team at Mid-Atlantic Timberframes. We’re excited by the opportunities mass timber presents to the US market and are ready to help you achieve your architectural and development goals.

The post Timber-Concrete Composite Systems: New Insights appeared first on Mid-Atlantic Timberframes.

Below are four of our favorite examples, structures that we believe forecast the future of mass timber builds.

1. Mjøstårnet, Brumunddal, Norway: Standing at 280 feet with 18 stories, Mjøstårnet is the world’s tallest all-timber building (recognized by the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat, or CTBUH). It combines multiple elements — including a hotel, apartments, offices, and public rooftop — and uses locally sourced glued-laminated (glulam) and cross-laminated timber (CLT) components. The project shows that tall, sustainable buildings can be constructed with local materials and expertise, and has become a global reference point in the mass timber discussion.
2. HoHo Wien, Vienna, Austria: HoHo Wien’s 24 stories rise 276 feet in the air, housing a hotel, health club, and a variety of shops and services. Utilizing a timber-concrete hybrid system, the building’s concrete core provides structural stability, while about 75% of its floors, walls, and facades are made of wood. The interior features removable partitions to support flexibility, with timber left exposed to highlight its tactile qualities. Upon its completion, HoHo Wien earned LEED Gold certification.
3. HAUT, Amsterdam, Netherlands: Amsterdam’s HAUT is a 21-story, 240-foot-high residential tower combining timber and concrete in a hybrid design. Built with more than 70,000 cubic feet of timber, the building stores around 1,800 tons of CO₂, and it generates enough energy, thanks to its energy-positive exterior, to supply all of HAUT’s electricity — just two of the features that earned it a BREEAM-NL Outstanding certification in 2023.
4. Press House, London, United Kingdom: Press House in London is a nine-story CLT-and-concrete residence partially clad in brick and reaching just over 100 feet in height. Built to London Plan development standards, this high-density housing solution demonstrates how mass timber can be scaled in cities with strict regulations and complex building codes. 

What’s Driving Europe’s Timber Growth?

Many European countries offer incentives, subsidies, and building codes that encourage the use of biobased materials. This has helped to move timber from niche to mainstream in urban construction, often becoming part of planning mandates. In Scandinavia, for example, timber is integrated into climate goals and public procurement strategies. The European public’s expectations for carbon neutrality and circular material use, coupled with the continent’s extensive forests and long-standing tradition of wood construction, are further solidifying mass timber as a premier architectural and ecological choice.

Additionally, advancements in engineered wood technology are making mass timber viable for high-rise construction. Engineered wood products such as CLT and glulam offer high strength-to-weight ratios and predictable behavior under load, enabling tall spans and consistent structural performance.

Mass Timber Is Building the Future

Europe’s tall timber accomplishments serve as more than just curiosities — they actively showcase the future of the built environment. For American architects and builders seeking reassurance and inspiration, these examples are proof that high-rise structures that embody elegance and sustainability are viable, even amid the steel and concrete of our modern cities.

To explore mass timber possibilities for your next project, contact our team at Mid-Atlantic Timberframes. We’re excited by the opportunities mass timber presents to the US market and are ready to help you achieve your architectural and development goals.

The post Mass Timber High-Rises Take Root in Europe appeared first on Mid-Atlantic Timberframes.

Regulatory Shifts Unlock Possibilities

The 2024 International Building Code (IBC) introduced new commercial construction types — IV-A, IV-B, and IV-C — that allow mass timber structures up to 18, 12, and 9 stories, respectively. Notably, Type IV-B now permits 100% exposed timber ceilings and beams, enabling bold, biophilic interiors. This use of exposed wood in a space has been shown to reduce stress and depression, improve recovery, and boost employee retention. It can also stimulate creativity and enhance problem-solving, which is particularly beneficial in educational environments.^1,2

For healthcare construction, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has been waiting for the National Fire Protection Association to accept mass timber as a building material for healthcare facilities, which they have in their 2024 code revisions. This inclusion, expected to be adopted in 2027, opens the door for CMS reimbursement for care received in mass timber environments.²

Addressing Technical & Hygienic Concerns

Healthcare planners often cite worries about vibration, acoustics, and infection control when choosing building materials. A recent engineering study by Forestry Innovation Investment of British Columbia reveals that hybrid construction that pairs mass timber with steel or concrete can meet stringent vibration and acoustic standards for sensitive environments.³

Meanwhile, concerns over the porous nature of exposed timber have also caused some delay in the use of wood in hospital settings, but a University of Oregon study released in July 2025 found that cross-laminated timber (CLT) inhibited bacterial growth when compared to plastic, even when wetted in simulated hospital conditions, potentially thanks to wood’s natural terpenes and moisture-absorbing properties.⁴

Benefits in Speed & Sustainability

Mass timber shines in modular construction. Prefabricated elements enable faster build times, cost efficiency, and greater resilience to weather and market shifts, making it a thoughtful solution for schools and clinics under tight timelines. And its sustainability credentials are even stronger. Mass timber buildings deliver significant reductions in embodied carbon compared with steel, while also acting as long-term carbon sinks.⁵

The Power of Collaboration

To advance the acceptance of mass timber for use in healthcare facilities and educational centers, its use must stem from partnerships among architecture firms, builders, academic researchers, and code authorities. A clearer understanding of mass timber materials will help to diminish fears that come from unfamiliarity with its capabilities and to drive its implementation. Tools such as the American Wood Council’s Mass Timber AMM Guide will help bridge code gaps across jurisdictions, feasibly smoothing the path for faster permitting and adoption.⁶

What Lies Ahead

With newer codes, supportive research, and modular building efficiencies, mass timber is prepped to transform healthcare and educational architecture. If you’re exploring mass timber for your next healthcare or school project, connect with our team of experts at Mid-Atlantic Timberframes. Together, we can design buildings that make a difference in the health of the people who use them and of the planet itself.

Sources

1. “The Benefits of Biophilic Design,” Mid-Atlantic Timberframes, accessed on September 10, 2025.
2. “Rise of Mass Timber Construction in Healthcare Design,” Healthcare Design, accessed on September 10, 2025.
3. “Mass Timber in Healthcare Facilities,” Entuitive, accessed on September 10, 2025.
4. “Effects of wetting events on mass timber surface microbial communities and VOC emissions: implications for building operation and occupant well-being,” Frontiers, accessed on September 10, 2025.
5. “Why Timber Is the Smart Choice for Commercial Building Projects,” Mid-Atlantic Timberframes, accessed on September 10, 2025.
6. “Mass Timber AMM Guide: Supplementary Requirements for Mass Timber Buildings of Type IV Construction,” American Wood Council, accessed on September 10, 2025.

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As suppliers of heavy and mass timber for residential, commercial, and equestrian structures, we help architects, builders, and contractors better understand the unique factors to consider when assessing land for a timber frame home or building. And while a property evaluation has many components, here we’ve compiled the major points to know as you start the project planning process.

Soil & Drainage Assessment

In every evaluation, an assessment will be made of the site’s soil and drainage. A foundation is only as good as the ground beneath it, so studying the soil and its stability plays a critical role in determining whether a site is suitable for building. Loose, expansive, or highly compressible soils can compromise stability. While a timber frame structure is inherently more flexible than rigid brick or block, this evaluation will flag problems that could potentially lead to shifting and torsion issues as the building settles.

Quality drainage is also important for a timber build. Poorly drained sites can lead to pooling water, which accelerates decay in timber elements and undermines structural performance. Ideally, the building site should slope away from the structure, and in cases where water flow is unavoidable, engineered solutions such as French drains may be necessary.

Topography & Terrain

A site’s topography influences both construction logistics and structural design. Gentle, uniform slopes are ideal because they reduce the need for significant excavation or grading. Conversely, steep slopes may require retaining walls or terraces.

Site accessibility is a crucial consideration. Timber frame construction involves moving and installing large timbers, often with the help of cranes. Sites that allow easy access for equipment and delivery trucks not only improve efficiency but also reduce safety risks during construction.

Environmental Factors

Timber is a natural material, and its performance is closely tied to environmental conditions. Moisture is the most significant threat — prolonged exposure can invite pests and fungi, so planning for proper timber care and maintenance is essential. Also, keeping the area near the structure clear of dense vegetation improves airflow and sunlight exposure, aiding drying after rain.

Climate considerations matter. Heavy snow loads, strong winds, and regional humidity all influence design choices. For example, architects may specify larger timbers or additional bracing in high-wind zones, or use steep roof pitches to shed snow in northern climates.

Official Standards & Codes

Finally, every timber frame project has to align with area zoning and building codes. Familiarize yourself with the American Wood Council (AWC) Standards for load calculations, as well as timber species identification, fire resistance, and thermal properties. Knowledge of codes, and compliance with them, is vital for architects and contractors, ensuring projects meet safety, performance, and regulatory benchmarks.

Built to Last

Evaluating land for timber frame construction requires an in-depth study of many factors. By carefully considering a site’s soil and drainage, terrain, prevailing weather, and zoning requirements, architects, contractors, and homeowners can avoid costly surprises and be confident their timber frame structure is built to last for generations.

If you’re planning a timber frame project, contact the experts at Mid-Atlantic Timberframes early in the process. Our team can guide you through a site evaluation, giving you peace of mind and setting the stage for a home or building that blends timber’s timeless beauty with enduring strength.

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Strength Myths

Myth: Mass timber is too weak for tall buildings.
Reality: Engineered products like CLT and glulam are specifically designed for structural performance. They can support substantial loads, meet modern building codes, and outperform steel or concrete in certain applications with their strength-to-weight ratio and seismic resilience. Because of these metrics, mass timber is being used in low-rise structures as well as buildings of up to 18 stories under the 2021 and 2024 International Building Code.

Myth: Timber buildings don’t last.
Reality: Properly finished and maintained, timber structures can endure for centuries. Moisture management and engineering are key, but historical examples prove durability: Timber buildings in Europe and Asia have survived for hundreds and even over 1,000 years.

Fire-Resistance Myths

Myth: Mass timber is a fire hazard.
Reality: Unlike light-frame wood, mass timber develops a protective char layer when exposed to fire. This outer char insulates the structural core, maintaining integrity much longer than most assume. Many CLT assemblies have passed fire tests well beyond their required code performance.

Myth: Mass timber burns quickly and collapses.
Reality: All materials perform differently under fire. Steel, for instance, loses strength and can deform rapidly as temperatures rise. Mass timber, by contrast, chars at a slow and predictable rate. With tested charring data and proper detailing, mass timber maintains stability in fire conditions comparable to, and in some cases better than, other materials.

Cost Myths

Myth: Mass timber is always more expensive than steel or concrete.
Reality: While initial material costs can sometimes be higher, mass timber can deliver savings in other areas. Faster installation, reduced labor needs, lighter foundations, and life cycle performance all contribute to its cost-effectiveness. With early contractor involvement and careful planning, mass timber can compete favorably with traditional construction for residential and commercial projects.

Myth: Mass timber building insurance and risk management are prohibitive.
Reality: The insurance market is evolving as underwriters increasingly distinguish mass timber from light wood framing. As data accumulates, premiums are moving closer to those of steel and concrete projects.

One More Common Myth

Myth: Timber is inherently unsustainable.
Reality: When sourced responsibly, timber is one of the most sustainable structural materials available. It promotes forest health, stores carbon, and reduces embodied carbon compared to concrete and steel. Life cycle analysis consistently shows mass timber as a strong contributor to low-carbon construction strategies.

Facts Over Fiction

For builders, architects, and design professionals, mass timber represents an opportunity to create strong, safe, and sustainable buildings that challenge outdated assumptions. It’s not weaker, more flammable, or always more expensive — in many cases, it’s the opposite. From seismic resilience to carbon benefits, mass timber is proving itself in projects around the world.

If you’re ready to move past the myths and explore how mass timber can work in your next project, contact us at Mid-Atlantic Timberframes. Our expert team will help guide you through the process, from initial design to ribbon cutting.

The post Mass Timber Myths: The Truth About Strength, Fire Resistance & Cost appeared first on Mid-Atlantic Timberframes.

For architects, designers, and contractors working in heavy and mass timber, this shift opens up significant opportunities. Timber structures lend permanence, warmth, and a connection to the natural landscape, making them an ideal framework for functional, aesthetically pleasing outdoor living environments.

Pavilions
Open to let breezes flow through, but covered to provide shelter from sudden summer storms, pavilions offer easy options for warm-weather living. A variety of forms are possible: a poolside pavilion for a private residence, an outdoor dining hall for a hospitality project, or a multipurpose event space for commercial use. Wood trusses paired with stone or paver flooring create flexible spaces for everything from dining to dancing. Integrating features such as kitchens, bars, ceiling fans, fireplaces, or radiant heating extends usability; layered lighting design adds drama and ambiance.

Pool Houses
Modern pool houses are more than a spot to change clothes or store towels — they’re functional extensions of luxury living, with comfortable lounges, bars, kitchens, full bathrooms, and even guest suites. Exposed timber beams contrast beautifully with the reflective surface of the pool, creating an interplay between structure and water. Seasonal use can be extended with sliding glass doors around the perimeter to transform the pool house into a year-round retreat.

Pergolas
Pergolas remain a standout feature in timber construction, offering shade and elegance without enclosing a space. Their exposed-beam construction and timeless aesthetic visually define patios, gardens, or firepit lounges while supporting climbing plants that change with the seasons. For designers, pergolas offer an opportunity to experiment with scale and proportion, anchoring outdoor rooms with a structure that is both architectural and organic.

Porches
As an iconic transitional element between house and landscape, porches provide shelter, character, and a clear architectural expression of welcome. Whether designed with a dramatic gabled roof or as a simple extended overhang, porches expand living space while tying the home to its surroundings. For mass timber builders, porches also represent an accessible entry point for integrating heavy timber detailing into residential or mixed-use projects, showcasing craftsmanship at the very threshold of the building.

Looking Ahead
As outdoor living continues to evolve, we expect technology to play a larger role. Automated lighting, integrated audio systems, and climate control will enhance how clients use these spaces. Yet the core demand remains the same: environments that combine comfort with craftsmanship.

Before starting your next outdoor living project, contact Mid-Atlantic Timberframes to explore what’s possible for classic backyard construction with modern comforts and conveniences.

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With the help of artificial intelligence, the heavy timber AEC industry is on the precipice of the extraordinary: computer-aided design that includes machine learning and generative AI functionality integrated into 3D CAD software. Platforms like Autodesk AI are now providing designers with a powerful way to problem-solve and streamline decision-making. Used in conjunction with DAISY, optimizing AI software that creates designs for wood structures, flooring and wall design time is being greatly shortened. This software combination is also capable of limiting a building’s carbon footprint by reducing the amount of concrete used in foundations.

Further AI software innovation is being achieved with Maestro. By analyzing the natural contours of trees before they would typically be turned into straight planks, this software uses the original curves of the wood to advise on geometric cuts that then fit together like puzzle pieces to create CLT (cross-laminated timber). This is predicted to save as much as 30% of the tree from being wasted and creates strong, interlocked pieces that are unique and naturally beautiful.

Cost savings and time efficiencies will continue to drive the integration of AI into the timber frame industry, providing design suggestions, identifying safety concerns, and helping designers achieve exciting new shapes and features in their work. Those who ignore its abilities do so at their peril — the digital revolution is here and ready to benefit one of the world’s oldest building industries.

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Let’s explore the ways timber frame commercial structures offer speed, savings, and innovation, making it an ideal choice for projects from retail to restaurants, offices to apartment buildings, and beyond.

1. Faster Construction & Quicker ROI – In many cases, timber structures can be erected 20–30% faster than their traditional counterparts.¹ This is true of both mass and heavy timber and produces a domino effect of other savings in reduced labor and on-site time. And, because timber elements are most often prefabbed off-site, shorter build times and minimized weather delays mean occupancy can happen sooner — and give a quicker return on investment.
2. Cost Savings & Financial Incentives – In addition to faster build times, timber can reduce construction costs due to its lighter weight in comparison to other materials. This results in fewer trips to the job site and less fuel consumed. Foundations can be less robust because of the lighter weight they will be required to support. Crew sizes can be curtailed as well, lowering labor costs. And in many regions, using mass timber unlocks green building incentives or tax credits. Over the full project life cycle, these savings can make mass timber competitive with, or even more affordable than, steel and concrete.
3. Sustainability & Corporate Responsibility – Unsurprisingly, timber has a much smaller carbon footprint than steel or concrete. In fact, timber sequesters carbon during its growth as a tree, then continues to hold that carbon throughout its time as a structural element. At a time when up to 28% of the earth’s greenhouse gas emissions come from building materials and building operations, these savings make a difference.2

4. Aesthetic & Market Appeal – The atmosphere of timber frame structures appeals to shoppers, visitors, and employees alike — and there are real benefits to working in these environments too. Studies show that productivity improves in a timber setting, as do feelings of well-being, a property known as biophilia. Air quality is also improved, and overall health is better supported whenever someone spends time surrounded by exposed timber.3

5. Performance, Durability & Safety – Mass timber products such as cross-laminated timber (CLT) are engineered for strength, fire resistance, and longevity. The construction of CLT panels, for instance, with wood members running in perpendicular layers, gives them incredible strength and durability when used vertically or horizontally. Used as wall panels, ceiling elements, and flooring, these materials must meet stringent safety standards.
6. Regulatory Support & Futureproofing – Since 2021, new construction types for timber have allowed for taller structures — up to 18 stories — expanding commercial opportunities dramatically.⁴ Mass timber has since become a go-to material for future-focused construction.

Timber: Smarter, Faster, Greener
As architects and engineers continue to embrace how they can build smarter, faster, and greener, mass and heavy timber are gaining widespread acceptance in the commercial construction landscape. Contact Mid-Atlantic Timberframes to explore how timber can elevate your commercial building project from the merely practical to the exceptional.

Sources

1. “A Guide to Mass Timber Construction: The Future of Sustainable Architecture and the Role of Forestry,” Rayonier, accessed June 26, 2025.
2. “Timber: The Future of Commercial Development?” Janover Commercial Real Estate Loans, accessed June 26, 2025.
3. “Mass Timber Office Development: Case Study,” AIA Orange County, accessed June 26, 2025.
4. “Expanding the Capabilities of Wood Construction Through Mass Timber,” Construction Business Owner, accessed June 26, 2025.

The post Why Timber Is the Smart Choice for Commercial Building Projects appeared first on Mid-Atlantic Timberframes.

Comprehensive Planning & Risk Management

Preconstruction planning lays the foundation for the entire project. It’s during this phase that scope, budget, and schedule are defined, and potential risks are identified and addressed. Without this groundwork, timber frame projects are vulnerable to budget overruns, design mismatches, and delays due to unresolved site issues or coordination failures. Timber buildings are unique in that they involve larger components and specialized techniques, so there is even more risk in starting without a thoroughly detailed plan.

Material Procurement & Logistics

A defining attribute of timber construction is its reliance on prefabricated elements and precise logistical timing. Structural components are ideally delivered for just-in-time installation. If material procurement or delivery is off, the consequences can be detrimental. Preconstruction ensures that lead times and delivery windows are clearly understood and managed. Likewise, acknowledging and adjusting for delays is crucial, as is proper handling and storage of the components if they should arrive outside of the preferred window. This planning is vital in today’s supply chain environment, where delays are often common and always costly.

Design & Engineering Coordination

Successful timber projects depend on close coordination between architects, engineers, manufacturers, fabricators, and construction managers. In preconstruction, these parties work collaboratively to align on structural detailing, code requirements, construction process, and sequencing. This alignment is essential for prefabricated timber. Early-stage coordination reduces rework, ensures compliance, and optimizes the use of materials.

Cost Control & Value Engineering

Budget control starts with early and accurate cost estimation. Preconstruction allows for value engineering, a process of evaluating design choices and material options to maximize performance and efficiency within budget constraints. Timber, especially in its engineered forms, can be costly and logistically demanding. Exploring options for structural layout, finishes, and modularity in this phase can produce big savings without sacrificing quality.

Stakeholder Alignment

Bringing all stakeholders together during preconstruction is critical to aligning expectations. A   communication strategy must be developed to keep key stakeholders informed about the project’s progress. This includes not just the design and build teams, but also the client, permitting authorities, and other consultants. Timber frame projects often carry aesthetic and sustainability goals that require shared vision and early buy-in. Misalignment at this stage can result in change orders and costly scope revisions later.

Regulatory & Environmental Considerations

Timber buildings must adhere to local building codes, environmental requirements, and, increasingly, green building certifications. Addressing these factors early ensures that the structure meets compliance standards and avoids red tape mid-build. For example, timber’s fire performance and acoustics require special design considerations in compliance with IBC ratings.

Preconstruction Is Key to Controlling a Project

In timber frame building projects, preconstruction isn’t just a helpful step — it’s a make-or-break phase. From risk management and material planning to cost control and stakeholder alignment, the upfront investment in time and coordination pays off in smoother execution, fewer surprises, more accurate budgeting, and better results. Timber buildings are as much about precision as they are about beauty, and that precision starts long before the first beam is raised.

Before your next timber frame project gets underway, consult with us at Mid-Atlantic Timberframes. Our experienced team will help guide you and your project stakeholders on the wisest and most efficient ways to complete a successful timber build. Call us at 717.288.2460 or visit our contact page to get started.

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