Material Spotlight: Mass Timber and Engineered Wood in Canadian Construction

Mass timber, particularly cross-laminated timber (CLT), is reshaping mid-rise and increasingly high-rise construction across Canada. British Columbia has led adoption, but Ontario and Quebec are seeing rapid growth due to code evolution and sustainability targets.

Why Mass Timber Is Gaining Ground

• Reduced embodied carbon compared to concrete and steel

• Faster erection timelines, with prefabricated components

• Lighter structural loads, beneficial for urban infill and poor soil conditions

Construction Considerations

Mass timber is not a direct substitute — it requires a different mindset:

• Moisture protection during construction is critical

• Fire rating strategies must be clearly detailed and approved

• Coordination between structural and architectural finishes is tighter, as timber is often exposed

Market Reality

Costs can still be higher depending on region and supply chain access. However, when factoring speed, reduced foundation requirements, and sustainability incentives, mass timber is increasingly competitive.