The Climate Solution in Construction: Tridome Structures and Mass Timber

Written By Parker Reed

The construction industry is on the brink of a revolution. With the growing demand for sustainable solutions, Tridome Structures, made from mass timber, are emerging as a game-changer.

Mass Timber: A Brief Overview

Mass timber building systems are characterized by using large, solid wood panels for wall, floor, and roof construction. Cross-laminated timber (CLT) is the dominant mass timber panel product, though other panel products include dowel-laminated timber (DLT), nail-laminated timber (NLT), and laminated veneer lumber (LVL).

The development of these engineered wood products and systems began in Europe several decades ago. Production methods have advanced and spread to other parts of the world.

The Rise of Mass Timber

CLT technology was developed in Austria in the early 1990s, and the first mass timber buildings were built between 1993 and 1995 in Switzerland and Germany. Europe remains CLT's primary producer (and consumer) globally, with about 3.15 million m3 of CLT capacity.

In North America, mass timber has been used in construction since 2010. The first few structures in the U.S. were built with CLT and glulam imported from Austria. Since 2013, several companies have established mass timber manufacturing plants in the U.S. and Canada.

Driving Demand for Mass Timber

Although mass timber currently accounts for a small share of global wood consumption, it is one of the fastest-growing markets for timber. There are three areas driving demand for mass timber:

  1. Potential to Reduce Building Sector Emissions: The building sector accounts for 40% of global emissions. Most focus has been on reducing operating emissions because of its greater relative share of total emissions (27%) compared to building materials and construction (13%). However, as emissions reduction targets become increasingly stringent and as buildings become more energy efficient, embodied carbon assumes greater relative importance.

  2. Real Estate Industry Alignment: The real estate industry is aligning around measuring and managing embodied carbon. Embodied carbon includes all the GHG emissions associated with construction activity and building materials.

  3. Cost and Efficiency Advantages: Mass timber offers cost and efficiency advantages over traditional building systems.

The Tridome Solution

At Tridome, we integrate mass timber and architectural membranes to create structures that are not only efficient but also transformative. We aim to create vibrant environments that nurture people, communities, and the planet.

Our unique approach addresses the Environmental, Psychological, Social, and Physical (EPSP) impacts of our built environment. By focusing on these aspects, we ensure that our structures contribute positively to the people, communities, and the planet they are a part of.

In conclusion, Tridome structures made from mass timber represent the future of construction. They offer a perfect blend of strength, beauty, and sustainability, making them a smart choice for anyone looking to invest in the future of our planet.

The demand for mass timber is set to soar, and with it, the popularity of Tridome structures. It's time to embrace this innovative construction method and contribute to a more sustainable future.

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Parker Reed

From writing about the latest advancements in renewable energy, to sharing insights on the future of digital marketing, I am to make my writing engaging, informative, and thought-provoking. As a columnist for Tridome Studios, I am dedicated to sharing my passion for sustainability and marketing with the world, and helping to drive positive change. Whether you're looking to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in these fields, or simply seeking inspiration and guidance, I strive to be an excellent resource to have on your side.

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The Future of Construction: Tridome Structures and Mass Timber