TRADA CLT Guide - Chapter 1

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Chapter 1
ISBN 978-1-909594-63-0
Design and performance
Cross-laminated timber
ISBN 978-1-909594-63-0
Published in 2017 by Exova BM TRADA
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Andrew Waugh and Alastair Ogle, Waugh Thistleton
Architects
B&K Structures
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Greg Cooper, William Hare Limited
Hugh Strange, Hugh Strange Architects (Chapter 1)
Kay Hartmann, KLH UK
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Contents Introduction 7
Chapter 1 CLT and its uses 8
1.1 What is cross-laminated timber? 8
1.2 How is cross-laminated timber made? 10
1.3 How sustainable is cross-laminated timber? 13
1.4 What are cross-laminated timber’s key structural properties? 17
1.5 What are cross-laminated timber’s other key properties? 19
1.6 What does cross-laminated timber look like? 21
1.7 What can cross-laminated timber be used for? 23
1.8 How does cross-laminated timber compare to the alternatives? 26
Chapter 2 Design principles 31
2.1 Key facts 31
2.1.1 Speed of construction 31
2.1.2 A renewable resource 31
2.1.3 Less weight 31
2.1.4 Versatility 33
2.1.5 Structural uses 33
2.1.6 Thermal performance 33
2.1.7 Sound transmission 34
2.1.8 Vapour control 34
2.1.9 Airtightness 34
2.1.10 Appearance 34
2.1.11 Fire resistance 34
2.1.12 Moisture, durability and movement 34
2.1.13 Integrating building services 35
2.2 Example buildings and forms 35
2.2.1 Cellular loadbearing CLT 36
2.2.2 Glulam frames and CLT panels 39
2.2.3 Low-rise CLT structures 42
2.2.4 Crosswall 44
2.2.5 Hybrid 46
Chapter 3 Performance 48
3.1 Structural design 48
3.1.1 Structural forms and stability 48
3.1.1.1 Structural forms 48
3.1.1.2 Stability 48
3.1.1.3 Disproportionate collapse 51
3.1.2 Structural elements 51
3.1.2.1 Commonly used methods of analysis 51
3.1.2.2 Crushing 53
3.1.3 Wall panels 54
3.1.3.1 Pre-scheme design of walls 56
3.1.4 Floor panels 56
3.1.4.1 Pre-scheme design of floors 59
3.1.4.2 Vibration 60
3.1.5 Roof panels 60
3.1.5.1 Pre-scheme design of roofs 62
3.1.6 Hybrid and composite construction 62
3.1.7 Connections 66
3.1.7.1 Connection types 66
3.1.7.2 Screws 66
3.1.7.3 Nails 68
3.1.7.4 Analysis of fasteners 69
3.2 Fire 69
4 | Contents
3.2.1 Fire resistance 70

3.2.1.1 Fire protection 71
3.2.1.2 Connections in fire 73
3.2.2 Compartment walls and floors 73
3.2.3 Resistance to surface spread of flame 74
3.2.4 Fire risk during construction 74
3.3 Acoustics 75
3.3.1 General 75
3.3.1.1 How CLT contributes to acoustic performance 76
3.3.2 Compartment walls and floors 77
3.3.2.1 Compartment walls 77
3.3.2.2 Party floors 79
3.3.3 Other walls and floors 80
3.4 Thermal performance 81
3.4.1 Thermal insulation 82
3.4.1.1 Common situations where thermal insulation is needed 83
3.4.1.2 Achieving thermal insulation with CLT structures 84
3.4.1.3 How to enhance thermal insulation of CLT 84
3.4.1.4 Thermal bridging 84
3.4.1.5 Insulating CLT and condensation risk 84
3.4.2 Airtightness 85
3.4.3 Thermal mass 87
3.5 Durability 87
3.5.1 Moisture 88
3.5.1.1 Wetting from weather 89
3.5.1.2 Contact with wetted surfaces 89
3.5.1.3 High humidity 90
3.5.1.4 Condensation 90
3.5.2 Moisture movement 91
3.6 Appearance 93
3.6.1 Exterior 93
3.6.2 Interior 94
3.6.2.1 Protecting the appearance of exposed CLT 95
3.6.3 Panel finish 96
3.7 Sustainability 97
3.7.1 Design and Access Statement 97
3.7.2 Carbon sequestration 98
3.7.3 Material 99
3.7.4 Transport 99
3.7.5 Delivery and erection 100
3.7.6 Disposal 101
Chapter 4 Case studies 103
Case study 1 Bridport House, Colville Estate 105
Case study 2 Strange House 110
Case study 3 Dyson Centre 114
Case study 4 Farnham Place 117
Case study 5 Lancaster Institute for the Contemporary Arts 120
Case study 6 Sky Health and Fitness Centre 124
Case study 7 Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft 128
Case study 8 Timber Lodge 132
Case study 9 TNG Youth and Community Centre 136
Case study 10 Kingsdale School 140
Case study 11 Waingels School 142
Case study 12 West Buckland School 146
Case study 13 William Perkin Church of England High School 150
Contents | 5
“ The character of the

interior contrasts starkly
with the exterior and the
exposed timber gives
the heart of the William
Perkin School a distinctive
warmth and character.
”
John Southall, Architect,
Feilden Clegg Bradley
Studios
William Perkin
CofE High School
(see also Case study 13)
Photograph
Dominic Cole
Introduction
The versatility of modern engineered wood products is leading to new and

innovative timber buildings. Alongside timber’s well-known environmental
advantages, the wider technical and performance benefits of products such
as cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glued laminated timber (glulam) are
now also being realised. By laminating layers of softwood together to form
stable elements, producers are able to combine the traditional advantages
of solid timber with new structural possibilities and accurate computer
fabrication.
It is timely therefore for TRADA to support the development of a comprehen-

sive technical publication on CLT as a material and as a building method.
TRADA’s membership includes timber experts who have pioneered the use
of CLT in schools and other public, commercial and residential buildings.
Many have generously shared their expertise and experience in this book to
assist in the wider understanding of the nature, potential uses and perfor-
mance of CLT, and to communicate best practice to all building designers.
Following an introductory section on CLT and its uses (also available

as a standalone document for use with clients), the authors describe
aspects of design and performance in more depth for technical readers.
Exemplar buildings for CLT and hybrid glulam/CLT structures are examined.
Additionally, in the final section of the book, there are thirteen inspiring
case studies demonstrating the application of CLT in a range of different
building types.
Highly illustrated with relevant drawings and photographs, Cross-laminated

timber: design and performance provides architects, building designers,
engineers, contractors and construction managers with a useful, acces-
sible resource they can consult for inspiration and technical guidance.
Nevertheless it is clear that the use of CLT as a building method is still
evolving and future editions are anticipated in order to keep pace with devel-
opments and new practices.
TRADA’s other CLT publications, available at www.trada.co.uk, include:
• Wood Information Sheet 2/3-61: Cross-laminated timber:

introduction for specifiers
• Wood Information Sheet 2/3-62: Cross-laminated timber: structural
principles
• GD10: Cross-laminated timber (Eurocode 5): design guide for
project feasibility
• Worked example: 12-storey building of cross-laminated timber
(Eurocode 5)
• Case studies.
Introduction | 7
CHAPTER 1
CLT and its uses
1.1 What is cross-laminated timber?

In recent decades, technological advances have led to the development of a
new form of engineered timber, cross-laminated timber (sometimes called
CLT or crosslam), that has transformed the opportunities for clients and
architects in the construction of buildings, while retaining the age-old joy of
working with this most natural and sustainable of materials.
Humankind has been building with wood since the beginning of civiliza-
tion, leading in some cases to the development of extremely sophisticated
cultures of timber construction. In Britain we have a very particular affinity
with the material. In his 1955 Reith lectures titled ‘The Englishness of
English Art’, Nikolaus Pevsner suggested this was perhaps born out of the
importance of boat building to an island nation, ‘…English
poetry has shown awareness of the sea around the island,
and that hearts of oak are not only the ships, but also the
mighty and ingenious roofs of the churches of England.’
Despite this, and with some notable exceptions, the

Industrial Revolution, and the 20th Century in particular,
saw a general decline in the pre-eminence of timber
structures, and advances in steel and reinforced concrete
technology led to their dominance as structural systems.
Factory-based innovations in Switzerland in the late

20th Century, however, established new techniques for
processing the raw material of wood to produce new forms
of engineered timber. By laminating layers of softwood
together to form stable elements, producers are now able
to combine the environmental and aesthetic advantages
of traditional timber construction with new structural
possibilities and accurate computer fabrication.
Figure 1.1 (above) Figure 1.2 (right)

Long House, Architect Mountain Shelter, Architect
Hampshire Place Architecture Austria Hermann Kaufmann
Client Client
English architecture has Private Cross-laminated timber German Alpine Club
a long tradition of using was first developed in
timber as a structural Timber structure central Europe in the Timber structure
building material. In this Eurban/Merk Timber 1990s. Here, a helicopter Binderholz
image a stack of cross- Timber superstructure delivers lightweight, Photograph
laminated timber panels engineer prefabricated panels to Hermann Kaufmann
awaits erection adjacent Eurban a remote alpine location
to a traditional timber- for rapid and simple site-
framed house Photograph assembly
© EURBAN
8 | CLT and its uses

CLT and its uses | 9

1.2 How is cross-laminated timber made?

CLT panels are manufactured by assembling layers of wood laminates
(typically spruce) together, each layer being laid at right angles to the
previous layer (see Figure 1.3).
Figure 1.3
Exploded view of CLT
assembly
“ CLT is not only light

but it can also be
machined to incredibly
high tolerances, which
makes it ideal for rapid
prefabrication and
erection, helping to
reduce construction
times.
” During assembly, some manufacturers then glue the edges of each laminate
together while others assemble the laminates ‘dry’ and only apply adhesive
Andrew Lawrence, between the layers. The assembled panels are then put under compression
Associate Director, Arup while the adhesive sets and cures. This creates a dimensionally stable
material that can span in two directions.
Next the panel faces are planed or sanded. The full-length panels are then
cut down to the specified lengths, window openings are cut and the edges
machined to the profile required.
Adhesives used in CLT manufacture are either emulsion polymer isocyanate

(EPI), polyurethane (PUR), melamine urea formaldehyde (MUF) or a combi-
nation mixed together. Although these are all oil-based, the proportion of
adhesive to wood in the panels is very low and any formaldehyde used must
be limited to a level that does not result in ‘free’ gas emissions.
A CLT panel has a primary and secondary span direction as shown in Figure
1.4. It ranges in thicknesses from approximately 60mm to 300mm, in lamella
of typically three, five or seven sheets. Due to the cross-laminations there
is a primary span direction (the grain direction of the outer laminar) and a
secondary direction perpendicular to the primary span. The primary span
is stiffer and stronger than the secondary direction due to more material in
the stronger, parallel-to-grain direction, and an increased distance from the
neutral axis. This two-way spanning nature means it can create a flexible
structure with floor voids or service penetrations through walls.

Figure 1.4
Primary and
secondary span
directions
Panel production size varies between manufacturers, with panel lengths up

to 22m and widths up to 4.8m. However, transport restrictions need to be
considered and panels are generally limited to 16m by 2.95m (see Figure 1.5).
Figure 1.5
Typical size of Typically 16m
CLT panel
up to 2.95m
Although it is possible to simply cut a door or window opening into a

CLT panel, for material efficiency this is best avoided. For example, a door
opening can be created by ending the panel at the door frame and using a
lintel above the door head (see Figure 1.6).
Figure 1.6
Punched openings and
openings with lintels
There are instances where penetrations will be required, such as for services
distribution. Due to the secondary spanning nature of CLT it is possible to
cut holes in the panels, but this must be pre-planned and done in the factory.
The introduction of an opening in a CLT wall panel alters the stress distribu-
tion in a panel and methods of analysis should take this into account. High-
level service penetrations can be achieved with either a punched opening

Figure 1.7
Penetrations for
openings near top of
wall
Figure 1.8
KLH Factory, Austria and utilisation of the floor panel span, or a lintel arrangement where longer
spans are required (see Figure 1.7).
Panels, some of which
include cut-outs for
windows and doors, await
For typical wall, floor and roof sizes, TRADA’s Structural timber elements
transportation within the offers pre-scheme design guidance.
controlled environment
of an industrially scaled The main producers of both cross-laminated timber and glulam are currently
factory environment
located in Central Europe and Scandinavia. Transport by articulated lorry
Photograph brings the completed pre-fabricated panels from these locations to the UK
Andrew Waugh for fast site assembly.

1.3 How sustainable is cross-laminated timber?

Cross-laminated timber offers considerable environmental advantages over
alternative construction materials. As a tree grows, through the process of
photosynthesis, oxygen is released into the atmosphere and the tree absorbs “ We promote the use of
carbon in the form of carbon dioxide that is then retained within its wood. timber in lieu of concrete
This carbon remains captured, or sequestered, within the felled timber and and steel, as timber is
the products that this goes on to form. Cross-laminated timber panels, and
the building structures they constitute, therefore act as long-term storage the only truly renewable
for carbon in a bound state. As the material is sourced from sustainably construction material,
managed forests, the felling of timber creates space for the growth of new
with the lowest energy
trees that absorb, in turn, more carbon.
consumption of any
The relatively low level of energy used in converting the raw timber to a building material across
finished product, compared to the manufacture of steel or concrete for
example, means that although some carbon is emitted in this process, the
majority is retained long-term. At the end of the building’s life the panels
”
its lifecycle.
may be dismantled and re-used, in which case the carbon remains stored. Kay Hartmann,
Alternatively, the panels can be used as fuel for biomass, and while the Technical Director,
carbon re-enters the environment when the wood combusts, this is within KLH UK
an efficient process that generates energy in turn, reducing the use of fossil
fuels.
This cycle stands in sharp contrast to that of the majority of construction

materials that contain no sequestered carbon, instead emitting signifi-
cant quantities of carbon due to the energy used in their extraction and
processing that remain within the environment. As the release of carbon
dioxide into the environment is the major man-made contributor to climate
change, substituting carbon-storing timber construction materials for
Figure 1.9
Timber awaiting milling
in central Europe
The forests from which the

wood for cross-laminated
timber is extracted have to
be carefully managed within
European environmental
guidelines
Photograph
Liam Dewar

Steel and Figure 1.10

pre-cast concrete 1820
Comparative carbon
Concrete 1720 footprints
The carbon stored

within a cross-laminated
timber building contrasts
sharply with that spent
in producing other major
Timber 660 building materials.
This graph compares
embodied carbon in
alternative schemes for
0 a school using either
concrete, steel and pre-
“ We have specified CLT cast concrete panels or
cross-laminated timber
for some of our more panels (derived from
notable projects and Ramboll data)
continue to recommend
it to our clients as a low
environmental impact
product. We find it a
Timber with
particularly effective sequestration –2130
material because it
provides solutions to Tonnes CO2
several issues without
having to add layers of
additional materials.
”
Carol Costello, Architect,
Cullinan Studio carbon-producing alternatives provides a compelling strategy for reducing
the construction industry’s significant environmental impact.
On a more local scale, the total carbon emission of a building is made up

of the embodied and operational components. As the operational carbon is
reduced, due to improved equipment efficiencies and de-carbonisation of
the electricity grid, the embodied carbon contributes a greater proportion of
the total carbon emissions. Reducing the embodied carbon in the construc-
tion process, in combination with a reduction of energy in use and, where
appropriate, linked to micro-generation, can therefore provide a coherent
sustainability strategy over the whole life of a building.

Figure 1.11
Manor Longbridge Architect
Primary School Greenhill Jenner Architects
Project engineer
Following delivery to site, MLM Engineers (London)
the frame can be quickly
and simply erected. The Client
material was chosen for this Dagenham and Barking
new school in East London Council
in large part due to the tight Timber structure
build programme that cross- B&K Structures/Binderholz
laminated timber construction
was well suited to meeting Photograph
B&K Structures

Figure 1.12
Lancaster Institute for the Architect
Contemporary Arts Sheppard Robson
Project engineer
New classrooms and offices Sinclair Knight Merz
provide spaces for Art, Design,
Music and Theatre Studies Client
for the Lancaster Institute for Lancaster University
the Contemporary Arts. Three Timber structure
larger arts spaces provide a Eurban/Schilliger Holz
gallery, theatre and concert
hall. The carbon stored within Timber superstructure
the frame assisted the building engineer
in becoming the first higher Eurban
education project in the UK Photograph
to achieve the new BREEAM Hufton & Crow
rating of ‘Outstanding’

1.4 What are cross-laminated timber’s key

structural properties?
Cross-laminated timber panels are typically used to form wall, floor and roof Figure 1.13
elements within buildings, but can also be used to construct service cores 52 Whitmore Road,
and stairs. The method of cross-laminating during production means the London
panels do not have a single direction of structural span, performing instead
in a multi-directional manner, and therefore providing a great degree of flex- This mixed-use canal-side
development in London
ibility in how they can be used. The outermost direction of timber therefore included a 5m high space
does not necessarily correlate with the direction of structural span, although at 2nd floor accommodating
performance is enhanced if it does. a photographer’s studio.
The cross-laminated timber
spans 9m and includes 23m
As a solid, planar material the panels differ from framed structural systems of open, column-free space,
of columns and beams, where non-structural materials are used to infill achieved by the walls acting
between linear acting elements. Instead the panels combine structural as deep beams and the
and enclosing properties, providing a loadbearing capacity spread over its party walls in the apartments
above acting as trusses
entire width. The large bearing area also allows a great degree of freedom
in the positioning of openings for doors, windows and services penetrations. Architect
The lightness of the construction, in comparison with steel, concrete and Waugh Thistleton Architects
masonry structures, reduces foundation requirements. Project engineer
Akera Engineers
Connections between panels are made with brackets or with long, self- Client
drilling woodscrews. Cross-laminated timber elements also provide an Private
excellent substrate for follow-on trades to fix into. Speed and flexibility are Timber structure
particularly apparent in the ease with which additional construction layers KLH UK
can be added, without the time or co-ordination associated with fixing wall Photograph
plugs into masonry or identifying timber stud locations for fixings. Alastair Ogle
Hybrid structural solutions are also possible, combining

the advantages of solid timber construction with those
of other materials and systems. Typical combinations
include:
• constructing a cross-laminated timber

structure above ground level on top of a
concrete basement structure
• combining cross-laminated timber and

concrete in a structural composite floor
build-up where the timber panels act as
permanent formwork for the concrete
• using cross-laminated timber panels for

loadbearing walls and timber frame for
non-loadbearing external walls, where
insulation can fit between the studwork to
reduce the overall wall thickness.
CLT can, in addition, be used alone for both walls and

floors, or in combination with a glulam or steel frame
to provide more open-plan spaces.

Figure 1.14
The Open Academy, Architect
Norwich Sheppard Robson Architects
Project engineer
Following its completion in WSP (substructure)
2010, the Open Academy
was the UK’s largest solid Timber superstructure
timber panel building. The engineer
building combines cross- Ramboll UK Ltd
laminated timber with glulam Client
downstand beams to provide Norfolk County Council
large spans and more
efficiently transfer loads Timber structure
KLH UK
Photograph
Kier Eastern

1.5 What are cross-laminated timber’s other

key properties?
Provided it is suitably protected against moisture and damp, wood can be

very durable, as many century-old timber buildings confirm, and CLT has
the same properties. “ The first time we built
in CLT I was amazed.
In contrast to standard timber framing, cross-laminated timber has inherent I stood and watched this
insulating properties. With a thermal conductivity, relating to the rate of
transfer of heat, of between 0.11 and 0.13 W/m2K, the material contributes perfectly pre-crafted
to the thermal performance of a construction build-up, although insula- building slot together in a
tion is usually needed. In addition, the material possesses some thermal
mass, assisting in the storage and slow release of energy, to moderate the
matter of hours.
”
thermal variations within a daily cycle. Finally, and not insignificantly, the
low thermal conductivity means that a solid timber surface feels warmer to Andrew Waugh, Director,
touch than materials such as concrete and steel, transforming one’s experi- Waugh Thistleton
ence of a room constructed in exposed cross-laminated timber, particularly Architects
in colder months.
Figure 1.15
Architecture Archive
The new archive building

provides storage and
display space for a private
drawings collector. The
massive timber walls and
roofs assist in providing a
stable internal environment
for the collection, moderating
temperature and moisture
through the timber’s
inherent thermal mass and
hygroscopic properties
Architect
Hugh Strange Architects
Project engineer
Price & Myers
Client
Private
Timber structure
Eurban/Stora Enso
Timber superstructure
engineer
Eurban
Photograph
David Grandorge

Figure 1.16
Stadthaus, 24 Murray
Grove, London
Following completion in
2009, this residential tower,
constructed with eight
floors of cross-laminated
timber structure, became
the tallest habitable timber
building in the world.
Plasterboard linings
complement the timber’s
inherent properties to
provide the required fire
and acoustic performance
Architect
Waugh Thistleton Architects
Project engineer
Techniker
Client
Telford Homes PLC /
Metropolitan Housing Trust As a large-format, panelised material, machined to high tolerances,
Timber structure cross-laminated timber has the potential to provide a building with excellent
KLH UK airtightness, thus improving the thermal performance of the structure and
Photograph reducing energy usage. Joints between panels are either detailed to incorpo-
Anthony Thistleton rate flexible seals or taped on the outside face to achieve airtightness.
Cross-laminated timber panels have a hygroscopic property, meaning that

they absorb and release moisture over time. As such, they can improve the
quality of internal environments, moderating the moisture content within a
space. In addition, the material’s vapour permeability means it can be effec-
tively used as an integral part of a breathing wall construction.
Unlike traditional timber frame construction, cross-laminated timber can be

designed to provide fire resistance, and provides a surface that chars under
fire conditions, protecting the material from further deterioration and struc-
tural collapse. Appropriate panel thicknesses should be used to achieve the
necessary protection class, but Building Control may, in certain situations,
require a plasterboard lining or surface treatment to inhibit surface spread
of flame.
Finally, the density of solid timber panels, particularly in comparison with

timber-framed construction, provides a barrier to sound transmission, which
can be improved by the application of a lining such as plasterboard to one
or both sides as necessary.

1.6 What does cross-laminated timber look like?

CLT panels are available in a number of finish grades and can either be
exposed or concealed internally. Manufacturers offer various finish options
but these generally approximate to three grades, from Standard Grade (or
non-visible), through Industrial Grade (visible), and Domestic Grade (visible).
There is a cost premium on the better quality finishes. These surface
finishes can be classified in relation to BS EN 13017-1 Solid wood panels –
classification by surface appearance.
The Standard Grade or non-visible Grade panels have a rough surface finish
that may display some discolouration, and the outer layers can have knot
holes and open joints. This grade is generally lined and used in concealed
locations within the finished building.
Domestic Grade offers a good quality surface finish suitable for exposed
situations. Open joints, cracks and knot holes might all be present in this
grade, but they are generally small and occasional, and do not affect the
overall appearance.
Industrial Grade panels offer an intermediate finish that can be used inter-
nally as an exposed surface, although larger open joints up to 4mm are to
be expected. The panels will nevertheless have a planed and sanded finish.
It is also worth noting that there can be different expectations of what

is acceptable from each grade. Because the various manufacturers offer
different finish options, it is advisable for designers and clients to obtain
reference panels from the supplier.
The panels are generally used to form an inner layer of a composite construc-
tion insulated and clad externally. As well as combining structure and Figure 1.17
enclosure, designers can also dispense with an internal lining if appropriate, Garden Museum,
significantly reducing the number and types of components involved within London
a typical cavity wall construction.
Cross-laminated timber
provides a free-standing
structure installed within
the historic fabric of the
Museum of Garden History
housed within St. Mary’s,
Lambeth. The exposed
wood of the intervention
is used to complement
the surface texture of the
existing stone building
Architect
Dow Jones Architects
Project engineer
Momentum
Client
Garden Museum
Timber structure
Eurban/Schilliger Holz
Photograph
David Grandorge

If cross-laminated timber panels are to be left exposed internally, care will

be needed to avoid water staining and other marking during construction as
well as bleaching from ultra-violet light. This facility can often lend buildings
constructed from cross-laminated timber a certain monolithic character, if
the material is entirely exposed internally.
Cross-laminated timber is generally fabricated using European softwoods

and so initially has a pale appearance that will gently yellow over time as
“ I am tremendously it encounters sunlight, if untreated. UV treatments are available that will
impressed with the very protect the timber and help retain the initial hue, and can be brush or
calm and purposeful spray applied. Colour applications or stains can also be used to achieve a
particular aesthetic result.
learning environment
that has been created.
The students are so
proud of the building
and the exposed cross-
laminated timber … gives
a high-end quality finish
not common in schools in
the UK. The construction
method enabled the
building process to be
rapid which was a major
factor in us moving in on
time.
”
Keir Smith,
Associate Head Teacher,
William Perkin CofE
Figure 1.18
High School
Sports hall at Architect
William Perkin CofE Feilden Clegg Bradley
High School, Studios
London Project engineer
AECOM (substructure)
Following its completion in
Timber/superstructure
2013 this school became
engineer
the largest construction
Ramboll UK
project in the UK with a
cross-laminated timber Client
structure. The project Kier Construction for London
was built to a very tight Diocesan Board for Schools,
programme that led the London Borough of Ealing
contractor to adopt a cross- and the Twyford Academies
laminated timber structure. Trust
The superstructure was
Timber structure
constructed in just four
KLH UK
months
Photograph
Dominic Cole

1.7 What can cross-laminated timber be

used for?
Through its exceptional combination of technical properties, CLT provides Figure 1.19
a remarkable degree of flexibility in use. This flexibility also extends to the Kingsdale School
appearance of buildings, allowing for a high level of creativity and versatility.
Buildings with a solid timber superstructure can be faced in any material, Completed in 2005, the new
sports hall and music school
although cross-laminated timber provides a sub-base that is particularly
for Kingsdale School was the
well suited to lightweight claddings. first cross-laminated timber
school building in the UK
The relatively lightweight nature of CLT lends itself to building on sites with
Architect
difficult ground conditions, bridging over existing infrastructure or even
dRMM
reusing existing foundations.
Project engineer
Michael Hadi
The method of factory production means that while repetitive structures
Client
can often have an intrinsic economy, an assortment of window and door
London Borough of
openings can also be developed within the design process and fully inte- Southwark
grated within the manufacturing of the panels, while still remaining cost-ef-
Timber structure
fective. This adaptability lends itself to freedom of design within the briefs KLH UK
of low-rise, non-residential projects as well as one-off houses.
Photograph
Alex de Rijke

Buildings for the education, health, civic and cultural sectors can all benefit
from the possibility of exposing the timber internally. This may be for
aesthetic or acoustic reasons, or because of the particular feel of a timber
internal environment.
In recent years the development of multi-storey timber structures has

become especially interesting. Residential, commercial and mixed-use
buildings have been constructed to heights and sizes previously considered
impossible. To some extent this is because cross-laminated timber has
“ We used CLT at overcome many of the problems relating to the structural and fire perfor-
mance of tall, lightweight timber-framed structures. These recent projects
the Garden Museum
also demonstrate how cross-laminated timber’s off-site manufacture and
because of its strength speed of erection is particularly suited to larger projects, while also offering
and light weight – it the noteworthy environmental benefits of mass timber.
made it the ideal material

for an intervention in a
listed building that was
structurally autonomous
and did not impose
too great a load on the
existing floor.
”
Alun Jones,
Dow Jones Architects
Figure 1.20
Bridport House
Completed in 2011, Bridport

House provides 41 new
residential units and was,
on completion, the largest
building in the world to use
cross-laminated timber
construction
Architect
Karakusevic Carson
Architects
Project engineer
Peter Brett Associates
Client
Hackney Borough Council
Timber structure
Eurban/Stora Enso
Timber superstructure
engineer
Eurban
Photograph
Ioana Marinescu

1.8 How does cross-laminated timber compare

to the alternatives?
As a recently developed material, cross-laminated timber is still establishing

itself within a construction sector where concrete, steel, masonry and tradi-
tional lightweight timber frame technologies have become the norm.
There are, however, numerous benefits to using engineered timber. Perhaps

the most notable advantage of cross-laminated timber is the remarkable
“ CLT’s lightweight speed with which solid timber structures can be erected. The advantages
construction and reduced to a project’s programme go beyond speed of site assembly of structural
foundation loads are a elements, with beneficial effects for follow-on trades. The precision of the
tolerances that are produced in forming openings within the computer-
significant advantage – aided, factory process, means windows and doors can be pre-ordered in
an additional floor could confidence, without the need for first taking site dimensions. In addition,
the solid, continuous surface of the timber allows quick, simple and flexible
provide a greater rental
fixing for subsequent elements, including windows and doors, drylining,
area for a developer, or insulation and cladding.
be built over a tunnel
The programmatic benefits can also lead to cost savings, most directly as a
with restrictive loading result of the relationship between a faster programme and reduced contract
requirements.
” preliminaries. In addition, significant cost savings result from both reduced
foundation requirements through lighter construction and thinner slabs as a
Oliver Neve, Ramboll UK consequence of greater load distribution.
There are other, more practical site benefits that accompany the pre-fabricated
nature of cross-laminated timber construction:
• The reduction in wet trades and the ability to fix the panels with
handheld, lightweight tools means that CLT building sites are safer
and quieter than those with concrete superstructures.
• Eliminating the health risks and noise associated with vibrating

machinery of concrete construction, as well as reducing deliveries
by ready-mix concrete trucks, results in less disruption to
neighbouring properties.
• CLT offers a solid substrate for easy installation of first- and

second-fix items.
Cross-laminated timber’s combination of notable sustainability credentials

with well-documented off-site construction advantages, such as minimal
site waste, aligns closely with progressive thinking within the industry.
Indeed, its qualities as a simple, yet high performing and sustainable
technology suggest it has a significant role to play within the 21st Century
building industry.

Figure 1.21
Theatre facilities and Architect
box office, Regent’s Haworth Tompkins
Park Structural engineer
Price & Myers
The building site, located
within Regent’s Park in Client
central London, contained a Regent’s Open Air Theatre
number of significant trees, Timber structure
including several that were Eurban/Stora Enso
subject to Tree Preservation
Orders. The use of cross- Timber superstructure
laminated timber significantly engineer
reduced the weight of the Eurban
building, allowing smaller Photograph
foundations so as not to Philip Vile
impact on the tree roots

Figures 1.22 and

1.23 (right)
Believe in Better Building, Architect and
London project engineer
Arup Associates
The UK’s first four-storey timber Client
commercial office features a BSkyB
glulam frame combined with
cross-laminated timber floors. Timber structure
The rapid programme was one B&K Structures/Binderholz
year from inception to practical Photograph
completion. The sequestration Simon Kennedy
of carbon in the frame creates
a building that goes beyond
zero embodied carbon.
The low-energy, under-floor
servicing strategy allows the
timber to be displayed

“ The cross-laminated timber “ We used cross-laminated

projects I have been involved timber at Mossbourne Victoria
with have generally completed Park Academy to provide
ahead of programme. a new four-storey teaching
Understandably this is largely building overlooking Well Street
down to the prefabrication of Common. Hackney Council
the components, but there were also very supportive of
is also the added bonus of
“ Cross-laminated timber is the sustainability credentials
quicker first fixing into timber a true 21st century building associated with the structural
by following trades.
” solution, using the latest in BIM
”
timber solution.
and manufacturing technology
Charlie Law, Sustainable Jude Harris, Director,
it delivers the most accurate
Construction Solutions Ltd Jestico + Whiles
and sustainable building method
to date. The market is growing
every year as an increasing
number of developers discover
the benefits of the system.
”
Gareth Mason,
Stora Enso

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Licensed copy: SHEFFIELDUN, SHEFFIELD UNIVERSITY, 28/03/2018, Uncontrolled Copy, © TRADA Technology

A single copy of this

This is an uncontrolled copy

This is a technical publication for professionals in the built

© Exova (UK) Ltd

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be

Exova BM TRADA acknowledges the assistance of the

All photographs and illustrations are © Exova (UK) Ltd

Layout by Monica Bratt, Pagewise

TRADA, the Timber Research and Development Association, is a not-for-

For further information and details of membership visit www.trada.co.uk or

Exova BM TRADA, part of the Exova Group, provides independent certifica-

The TRADA bookshop offers a wide range of technical publications for

3.2.1 Fire resistance 70

“ The character of the

The versatility of modern engineered wood products is leading to new and

It is timely therefore for TRADA to support the development of a comprehen-

Following an introductory section on CLT and its uses (also available

Highly illustrated with relevant drawings and photographs, Cross-laminated

TRADA’s other CLT publications, available at www.trada.co.uk, include:

• Wood Information Sheet 2/3-61: Cross-laminated timber:

1.1 What is cross-laminated timber?

Despite this, and with some notable exceptions, the

Factory-based innovations in Switzerland in the late

Figure 1.1 (above) Figure 1.2 (right)

8 | CLT and its uses

CLT and its uses | 9

1.2 How is cross-laminated timber made?

“ CLT is not only light

Adhesives used in CLT manufacture are either emulsion polymer isocyanate

10 | CLT and its uses

Panel production size varies between manufacturers, with panel lengths up

Although it is possible to simply cut a door or window opening into a

CLT and its uses | 11

12 | CLT and its uses

1.3 How sustainable is cross-laminated timber?

This cycle stands in sharp contrast to that of the majority of construction

The forests from which the

CLT and its uses | 13

Steel and Figure 1.10

The carbon stored

On a more local scale, the total carbon emission of a building is made up

14 | CLT and its uses

CLT and its uses | 15

16 | CLT and its uses

1.4 What are cross-laminated timber’s key

Hybrid structural solutions are also possible, combining

• constructing a cross-laminated timber

• combining cross-laminated timber and

• using cross-laminated timber panels for

CLT can, in addition, be used alone for both walls and

CLT and its uses | 17

18 | CLT and its uses

1.5 What are cross-laminated timber’s other

Provided it is suitably protected against moisture and damp, wood can be

The new archive building

CLT and its uses | 19

Cross-laminated timber panels have a hygroscopic property, meaning that

Unlike traditional timber frame construction, cross-laminated timber can be

Finally, the density of solid timber panels, particularly in comparison with

20 | CLT and its uses

1.6 What does cross-laminated timber look like?

It is also worth noting that there can be different expectations of what

CLT and its uses | 21