B.C. building code to allow taller mass timber buildings [Video]

The use of mass timber in British Columbia is moving up and expanding to schools, libraries and other construction.

The province says it’s making building-code changes allowing for the use of mass timber in buildings up to 18 storeys, an increase from the previous 12-storey limit.

The expansion also includes building with mass timber for housing, retail, light and medium industrial construction and care facilities, as part of government efforts to streamline provincial housing permits and authorizations.

Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon says in a statement the changes will help reduce carbon pollution, support forestry, create jobs and build more homes.

Mass timber, also known as engineered wood, can be used in place of steel or concrete, and is made of smaller wood connected with adhesives, dowels, nails or screws to create larger structural components.

Jagrup Brar, minister of state for trade and chair of the Mass Timber Advisory Council, says …