Mid-Rise Wood Construction is gaining the attention of design professionals nationwide, who see it as a way to achieve higher density housing at a lower cost while reducing the carbon footprint of their projects. Yet, many familiar with wood construction residential structures are not aware that the International Building Code (IBC) allows wood-frame construction for 5 stories or less in building occupancies that range from multi-family, military, senior, student and affordable housing.
“The best feature of building with wood tends to be its price,” says Bill Cavanaugh, Vice President of USModular, Inc. “Modular Multi-Story Wood Construction is practical for Multi-Family, Affordable, Senior and Student Housing because it offers a high percentage square footage at a relatively lower cost, but the benefits are equally applicable to other occupancy types.” Todd Kesseler, President of USModular, Inc. also finds wood construction much more economical. “The time frame to build the project is far less than traditional construction methods. Wood is also versatile. Making changes at the job site tends to be easier.” With its and sustainability and aesthetic aspects, wood has long been understood as a renewable resource with a net carbon reduction to the environment. Wood is renewable and building with it sequesters carbon dioxide for the life of the building. The ability to build more densely out of wood is a win-win for the green building movement.
As well as echoing modern city life, the tower incorporates environmental principles, including better energy efficiency. CLT helps make the entire construction process more environmentally-friendly. The process creates a practical alternative to materials such as prefabricated concrete. CLT can withstand the same pressure as concrete, but is faster and cheaper to work with. The tower marks an interesting and groundbreaking movement to increase construction efficiency.
