
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relying on outdated codes: "The AMM Guide is a resource to help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