Mass Timber Protection: The New Zealand Context

New Zealand is an excellent testing ground for mass timber buildings due to its challenging seismic activity, weather conditions, wind, UV exposure, and other environmental factors. As a leader in developing innovative mass timber systems for various building typologies, this presentation will focus on applying these systems in the New Zealand context. Specifically, it will emphasize moisture management in an 8-level office building development in Tauranga, known as 90 Devonport Road.

The presentation will outline the strategies, materials, and applications used in the Temporary Timber Protection Strategy framework to ensure the structure’s protection in this demanding environment. Additionally, it will highlight the efforts needed to prepare a construction company unfamiliar with mass timber, transforming it into a high-confidence, highly knowledgeable workforce. We will also look into the prospects of a duplicable mass timber system that can be applied across different typologies, and the power of a moisture management strategy that can provide simpler complaince and acceptance from local authorities.

Daiman Otto

Director
DK Otto Limited

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Lessons Learned: Holistic Moisture Management in Mass Timber Buildings

In this session, I will share insights from the Danish Technological Institute on effectively managing moisture in mass timber buildings. Drawing from real-life experience and our ongoing research in Denmark, I will present a detailed case study of our Build-in-Wood demonstrator building, as well as insights from other projects across the country. This includes everything from developing a moisture strategy to implementing the management plan, adding protective measures and using moisture-detecting systems. I will discuss the continuous surveillance of moisture levels throughout the building’s entire lifetime, as well as handling emergencies. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience, I will highlight the risks identified and provide guidance and lessons learned to ensure the longevity and durability of mass timber structures.

Fabia Baumann

Timber Engineer
Danish Technological Institute

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Best Practices for Mass Timber Roof Design and Construction

Interest in mass timber buildings, and awareness of its advantages, have exploded in recent years. But with any new construction technique comes new challenges and questions about best practices for designers and contractors.

For roofs built over mass timber including cross-laminated timber (CLT) and other engineered wood panels there are several significant design and construction considerations that differ from roofing over concrete, steel decks, or light wood framing.

Roofs built over mass timber components require specific attention to careful moisture protection during construction and the protection utilized may also have important design considerations for the roof assembly longevity afterwards. Trapping moisture within mass timber roofs is of particular concern and therefore designs that are phased to keep the wood dry during the construction process and then allow drying in-service are preferrable where possible. Other questions arise around correct placement of air and vapor control and slope in both protected membrane and conventional roof assemblies along with how wind uplift and wind and fire insurance may be affected.

This presentation will summarize best practices for mass timber roofs and share experiences of successful solutions for keeping mass timber dry during construction and beyond and meet wind uplift and other roofing requirements.

Graham Finch

Principal, Senior Building Science Specialist
RDH Building Science Inc

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Session CEUs: Course Description & Learning Objectives

Course Description

This course will present a holistic approach to moisture control, from initial design and material selection through construction and long-term maintenance, specific building elements like roofs, and the unique challenges associated with mass timber. Attendees will explore real-world case studies from challenging environments like New Zealand, learn from cutting-edge research conducted by the Danish Technological Institute, and gain expert insights into roof design and construction best practices.

Participants will discover effective moisture protection strategies, including temporary protection measures during construction, proper detailing of air and vapor barriers, and integrating moisture monitoring systems. The course will also address the importance of training construction teams unfamiliar with mass timber techniques and navigating the complexities of local building codes and approvals. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and lessons learned, the presentation will equip architects, engineers, and contractors with the tools and understanding necessary to design and build durable, high-performing mass timber structures with confidence.

ICC:
Attendees will explore real-world case studies from challenging environments like New Zealand, learn from cutting-edge research conducted by the Danish Technological Institute, and gain expert insights into roof design and construction best practices. Participants will discover effective moisture protection strategies, including temporary protection measures during construction, proper detailing of air and vapor barriers, and integrating moisture monitoring systems. Importance of training construction teams unfamiliar with mass timber techniques and navigating the complexities of local building codes and approvals. The presentation will equip with the tools and understanding necessary to design and build durable, high-performing mass timber structures with confidence.

Learning Objectives

1. Identify and apply appropriate moisture protection strategies for mass timber buildings in diverse climates and environmental conditions.
2. Understand the key design and construction considerations for mass timber roofs, including best practices for moisture control, ventilation, and integration with other building systems.
3. Evaluate and implement effective moisture management plans, incorporating preventative measures, monitoring techniques, and contingency plans for addressing potential issues.
4. Recognize the challenges and opportunities associated with mass timber construction, including navigating local regulations, training construction teams, and ensuring long-term building durability.