Advantages of cross laminated timber construction

Cross laminated timber elements have a considerable number of positive properties:

   

  • Production, which is carried out in the works and is independent of weather conditions, of large-area ready-trimmed wall and ceiling components allows a high degree of prefabrication. Carcasses can be therefore produced in the shortest possible time.
  • The elements are dry and therefore do not bring any moisture into the structure.
  • The layer-based construction enables the application of decorative or soundproofing or fireproofing toughened cover layers.
  • Since the swelling and shrinkage value of timber is considerably less in the grain direction than radial or tangential to the grain, the crosswise alignment of neighbouring board layers results in a barrier effect with regard to the moisture-dependent deformation behaviour. Cross laminated timber elements therefore show extremely low swelling and shrinkage deformation. Cross laminated timber components are also extremely precise-fitting and dimensionally stable due to the CNC-controlled factory assembly usually used.
  • Apart from manufacturer-specific large dimensions, there are no specifications for dimensional grids to be observed from the production and technical point of view.
  • System structures with less component height and lower deadweight can be implemented in comparison with linear supporting systems through activation of the planar load distribution in cross laminated timber elements.
  • Well-insulated building component structures with visible timber surfaces result in surface temperatures near to the room air temperature, which is a considerable contribution to an increase in comfort. At the same time, the high size proportion and the level of specific moisture and heat accumulation capacity of the softwoods used also assist in regulating the residential climate. This aspect also has a positive effect on summer heat insulation since a pronounced phase shift and amplitude attenuation of the surface temperature is achieved.
  • The planar construction with closed surface layers achieves considerable benefits with regard to heat, moisture, fire and sound insulation since air movements within the structure are prevented.
  • There is no restriction with regard to fixing loads in solid cross laminated timber components (e.g. for heavy kitchen cupboards).
  • If the client has reservations about the well-tried multi-layer "lightweight construction" of timber construction, cross laminated timber components represent a solid alternative.
  • Cross laminated timber is manufactured using softwood from sustainably managed forests. In comparison with other solid construction methods, the manufacture and processing of cross laminated timber elements requires less energy and assists in permanent CO2 storage and minimising the greenhouse effect.
  • At the end of its useful life, cross laminated timber can be recycled. If cross laminated timber elements are thermally used, only the CO2 which was stored during the growth period of the timber is discharged into the atmosphere. Thermal use can therefore be described as indirect solar energy usage.