Light-Frame

Cost-effective, efficient, and accessible, light wood-frame construction is commonly used in Type III and V buildings up to six stories, and podium projects with up to six stories of wood over another construction type (typically Type I-A concrete). Learn about nuances that contribute to successful projects, and what to consider when designing these buildings.

Case Studies 1430 Q – Light-Frame Maximizes Space and Profitability in a Competitive Market
Evolution of the International Building Code (IBC) leads to an innovative 6-over-2 design for this mixed-use project in Sacramento. The result maximizes density and the owners’ financial return.
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Design Example of a Cantilever Wood Diaphragm Design Examples
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Do wood-frame buildings need to account for thermal movement? Expert Tips
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Floor Vibration Analysis in Light-Frame Projects Expert Tips
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Herrington Recovery Center – Light-Frame Hybrid Design Leads to Healing Environment Case Studies
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Emory Point – Wood-Frame Mixed-Use Development in Atlanta Case Studies
Upcoming Light-Frame Events
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Designing Durable Balconies: Weather, Fire, Structure Online · National · October 11 @ 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm PDT
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Type III Fire-Resistant Design & Detailing for Exterior Walls and Shafts Online · West · November 14 @ 11:00 am – 1:30 pm PST
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Frame it Right: The Basics and Beyond for Light-frame Construction In Person · West · November 15 @ 2:00 pm – 4:30 pm PST
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Type III Fire-Resistant Design & Detailing for Exterior Walls and Shafts In Person · West · November 16 @ 2:00 pm – 4:30 pm MST

Resources for Light-Frame 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 light wood-frame design.
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Understanding the Carbon Numbers in a Wood EPD Expert Tips
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What Net Zero Means in the Building Construction Industry Expert Tips
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Assessing the Financial Feasibility of Modular Construction Expert Tips
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Roles and Responsibilities: Structural Design of Modular Projects Expert Tips
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The Modular Design Process – Design of the Units Expert Tips
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Regulating Off-Site Construction: Ensuring Code Compliance in a Factory-Built Environment Expert Tips
Tools & Guides for Light-Frame 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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