A quick overview of modern timber-framed buildings

Timber structures have a history of thousands of years in China. However, how much do you know about modern timber structures?

Modern timber-framed buildings are developed by using standardized timber materials during construction, combined with modern advanced design concepts and construction techniques. Currently, the mainstream structural types include: light trusses and heavy beams and columns.

Modern timber structure building

The raw materials for modern timber structures are processed using modern industrial methods, such as drying to control moisture content, using anti-corrosion treatments to increase the lifespan of the wood, and employing different cutting methods like through-tangential cutting to make reasonable use of the structural properties of the wood.

Features

1. The corrosion resistance and durability of modern timber structures have been greatly improved.

2. The raw materials are environmentally friendly and pollution-free, and the wooden building materials are recyclable and reusable.

3. In terms of height, the Norwegian company Voll Arkitekter has already exceeded 85.4 meters.

4. The construction period is short and the construction process is simple and straightforward.

5. Excellent seismic performance.

The difference between modern timber structures and traditional timber structures:

First, modern timber-framed buildings don't simply utilize logs. Unlike in the past, where a log was sawn and cut to size for beams or columns, modern timber structures use engineered wood. Engineered wood differs fundamentally from logs; it's processed using modern industrial methods and advanced technology into beams, columns, and other components suitable for construction. For example, planks and plywood are different. Although both use wood as a raw material, they differ; plywood undergoes processing.

Secondly, the connection methods of wooden structures have changed. Traditional wooden structures are connected by mortise and tenon joints, but now a variety of connection methods such as metal and glue have been added.

Third, modern wood structure materials can be reused many times. In some countries with advanced wood structure technology, the materials can be reused six to seven times, and can eventually be made into wood balls for heating.