Commercial Low-Rise
Mass timber products are often used in commercial low-rise buildings for their aesthetic, but traditional wood-frame construction can also be a cost-effective option for projects such as restaurants, shopping malls, and big-box stores. Our resources can help you create versatile spaces that are cost-competitive and communicate the values of sustainable building design.
Solution Papers 5-over-2 Podium Design: Part 1 – Path to Code Acceptance
First published in Structure, Part 1 of this two-part article covers design considerations and traditional approaches to 5-over-2 projects.
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5-over-2 Podium Design: Part 2 – Diaphragm and Shear Wall Flexibility Solution Papers
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Biophilic Design LookBook Building Trends
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Classifying Wood-Sheathed Diaphragms as Flexible or Rigid Expert Tips
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Design Example of a Cantilever Wood Diaphragm Design Examples
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Adding Insulation to a Fire-Tested Wall or Floor Assembly Expert Tips
Upcoming Events
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Western City Campus Pavilion Office Tour: A Firsthand Look at Mass Timber In Person · West · January 6, 2026 @ 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm MST
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Mass Timber Structural Systems: Products and Framing Systems Online · National · January 13, 2026 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm EST
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Mass Timber Structural Systems: Implementing Design through Examples Online · National · January 15, 2026 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm EST
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Mass Timber for Developers and Owners Online · West · January 22, 2026 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm PST
Resources for Commercial Low-Rise Projects
Get the practical information you can apply to projects. Learn about the latest advances and code requirements, explore innovative projects, and expand your knowledge of wood design.
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Exterior Walls in Mass Timber Buildings – Part 5: Thermal Enclosure Design Expert Tips
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Using Dead Loads to Resist Shear Wall Overturning Expert Tips
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Sealants and Adhesives at Intersecting Mass Timber Members Expert Tips
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Mass Timber Moisture Management for Construction Expert Tips
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Delegated Design vs. Design Assist for Mass Timber Structures Expert Tips
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Using Gun Nails in Wood-Framed Shear Walls and Diaphragms Expert Tips
Tools & Guides for Commercial Low-Rise Projects
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Guides, Manuals & Inventories
Detailed guidance on specific aspects of wood design and construction, plus inventories of fire and acoustically-tested assemblies.
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CAD & Revit Details
Hundreds of searchable details for mass timber and light wood-frame buildings.
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Online Calculators
Calculate height and area options or estimate your project’s wood carbon footprint.
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