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New Mass Timber AMM Guide Released by AWC to Aid Building Codes
[Jun 2, 2025]




Introducing the Mass Timber AMM Guide

The American Wood Council (AWC) has announced the release of a national Mass Timber Alternative Materials and Methods (AMM) Guide, aimed at providing critical support to building officials as they navigate the complexities of permitting and approving mass timber projects. This guide is specifically designed for use with the 2018 International Building Code (IBC), a move seen as essential to modernizing construction practices in the U.S.

Purpose of the AMM Guide

The new AMM Guide seeks to fill the existing gaps between state-adopted codes and the innovative mass timber provisions found in the upcoming 2024 IBC. States often take years to adopt the latest codes, leaving a lagging period where project approvals may become stifled or delayed. With the AMM Guide, jurisdictions lacking specific guidance on mass timber can establish clear requirements for the approval of new Alt Materials and Methods projects, streamlining the process and encouraging new developments.

Philip Line, AWC's Vice President of Codes and Standards, emphasized the guide's usefulness for jurisdictions still relying on outdated codes: "The AMM Guide is a resource to help code officials establish transparent requirements for the approval of new mass timber buildings," he stated.

Historical Context and Previous Releases

The AMM Guide builds on the momentum created by last year's launch of the Florida Mass Timber AMM Guide, tailored specifically to the state's 8th Edition Building Code. The Florida guide made an impactful contribution by being recognized as an invaluable resource for building officials, enhancing their understanding of mass timber provisions and paving the way for future code adoptions.

Both the national Mass Timber AMM Guide and the Florida-specific version are readily accessible on the AWC website. They are complemented by additional wood construction standards such as the AWC/ANSI National Design Specification for Wood Construction and the Fire Design Specification for Wood Construction.

The Importance of Mass Timber

Mass timber represents a progressive avenue in construction, leveraging sustainable wood products to deliver structures that are not only efficient but also environmentally friendly. With AWC representing about 86% of the structural wood products industry, the push for sustainable building practices is paramount. Nearly 465,000 workers benefit from jobs in mills across the country, emphasizing the socio-economic impact of this sector.

AWC’s efforts in data development, education, and standard-setting ensure better utilization of wood products, highlighting their unique sustainability advantages. This initiative reflects a commitment to environmental leadership and carbon reduction benefits, reinforcing the role of the AWC as a trusted resource among design professionals, code officials, and public stakeholders.

Conclusion

The release of the National Mass Timber AMM Guide is a significant step forward in promoting the adoption of mass timber in construction projects across the United States. By making it easier for jurisdictions to navigate building codes, the AWC hopes to modernize and support sustainable building practices that will shape the future of the construction industry. As interest in mass timber grows, resources like the AMM Guide will be crucial in fostering an environment conducive to innovation and sustainable development across the nation.

About AWC
The American Wood Council (AWC) represents 86 percent of the structural wood products industry and the almost 465,000 men and women working family-wage jobs in mills across the country. From dimension lumber to engineered wood products, we champion the development of data, technology, and standards to ensure the best use of wood products and recognition of their unique sustainability and carbon-reduction benefits. We are leaders in providing education to the design, code and fire official communities who view AWC as a trusted and credible resource. www.awc.org | @woodcouncil

Source: third-news.com



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