Canada’s Mass Timber Revolution: The Future of Sustainable Building

Canada is stepping onto the world stage as a leader in mass timber construction, blending centuries of forestry expertise with the latest in engineering and design technology. This innovative building approach is transforming skylines, cutting carbon emissions, and reshaping what we think is possible in modern architecture.

To explore the topic in greater depth, read The Rise of Mass Timber: How Canada is Reshaping Sustainable Construction by Denis Koshelev.

What is Mass Timber?

Mass timber is large, prefabricated, engineered wood components used for structural purposes. These products combine strength, stability, sustainability, and aesthetic appeal. Common types in Canada include:

• Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) – Kiln-dried lumber layers stacked in alternating directions and bonded with adhesives, creating solid panels for walls, floors, and roofs.

• Glue-Laminated Timber (Glulam) – Layers of dimension lumber glued together with moisture-resistant adhesives, perfect for beams, columns, and curved elements.

• Nailed-Laminated Timber (NLT), Laminated Strand Lumber (LSL), and Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) – Variations designed for specific structural needs.

  
  

Why Canada is Embracing Mass Timber

1. Advanced Technology

   • Design tools like parametric and generative modelling integrate with Building Information Modelling (BIM) to streamline design and manufacturing.

   • Prefabrication allows for precise, efficient production and faster construction times.

2. Safety and Durability

   • Extensive research into fire performance, including the use of self-tapping screws and hybrid connections, has addressed key safety concerns.

   • Canadian glulam uses waterproof adhesives and stress-rated laminations for consistent strength.

3. Progressive Building Codes

   • As of January 1, 2025, Canada permits encapsulated mass timber construction up to 18 storeys (up from 12).

   • This opens the door for taller, more ambitious wood-based buildings.

4. Provincial Leadership

   • British Columbia’s Wood First Act mandates the use of wood in provincially funded buildings.

   • The province’s Mass Timber Action Plan is spurring growth in local manufacturing and construction.

     
     

The Current Canadian Landscape in Mass Timber

• As of 2023, Canada had over 661 mass timber projects either completed or in development.

• These range from residential towers to office complexes and institutional buildings.

• Developers are also creating proprietary systems, like Adera Developments’ SmartWood, that rival steel and concrete in strength, often at a more competitive price.

  
  

In Summary

Mass timber is more than a building material. It demonstrates movement towards low-carbon, high-performance design. With supportive government policies, innovative technologies, and growing industry expertise, Canada is setting an example for sustainable construction worldwide.