Mass timber
Mass timber is a category of engineered timber product designed for structural applications, offering an alternative to steel and concrete. These products are made by bonding layers of wood together to create large, strong, and stable panels, beams, and columns suitable for building construction.
The UK has seen increasing interest in mass timber as part of the push for low-carbon and net-zero construction, though fire safety regulations—especially following the Grenfell Tower fire—have influenced its use, particularly in taller buildings.
Types of mass timber include:
- Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT). Layers of timber boards glued together at right angles, creating strong, rigid panels used for walls, floors, and roofs.
- Glue-Laminated Timber (Glulam). Layers of timber bonded with adhesive in a parallel grain orientation, commonly used for beams and columns.
- Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL). Thin wood veneers bonded together with adhesives, used for beams, headers, and structural applications.
- Nail-Laminated Timber (NLT) and Dowel-Laminated Timber (DLT). Stacked planks nailed or doweled together, often used for floors and roofs.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
RTPI leader to become new CIOB Chief Executive Officer
Dr Victoria Hills MRTPI, FICE to take over after Caroline Gumble’s departure.
Social and affordable housing, a long term plan for delivery
The “Delivering a Decade of Renewal for Social and Affordable Housing” strategy sets out future path.
A change to adoptive architecture
Effects of global weather warming on architectural detailing, material choice and human interaction.
The proposed publicly owned and backed subsidiary of Homes England, to facilitate new homes.
How big is the problem and what can we do to mitigate the effects?
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
A number of cool guides to help with the heat.
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.
UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions
With the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).