The sky is the limit. If you had mentioned this phrase a few decades ago concerning timber construction, people would have looked at you weirdly. The reason is that structural timber was traditionally confined to simple ground-level structures. With the advancement in building technology, local councils have begun accepting permit applications for the development of storied timber structures. Part of this can be attributed to emerging know-how regarding joinery and structural strength of the timber. Therefore, building contractors should tap into the opportunity to grow their business. This article highlights the key timber joinery technologies making waves in the timber construction industry.
Dowel-Laminated Timber -- One of the first joinery technologies to hit the timber construction industry was dowel laminated timber (DLT). It is similar to nail laminated timber, but the major difference is that instead of using nails and screws, DLT uses wood dowels to join pieces of timber together. However, most contractors always question the structural integrity of DLT, and the simple answer is that dowel laminated timber is incredibly strong. The best part is that DLT is easy to use with CNC machinery due to the all-wood composition. Therefore, contractors do not have to worry about fasteners like nails and screws damaging their tools.
Cross-Laminated Timber -- Another timber product that is creating a buzz in the construction industry is cross-laminated timber (CLT). Most contractors believe the new wood technology employs a unique arrangement of the rafts. Unlike in dowel laminated timber, CLT involves 2x4 raft beams aligned with the grains of subsequent layers. The rafts are then glued or laminated to resemble a giant sandwich. The arrangement creates a strong counter-tension, which makes CLT a strong contender for building skyscrapers. The best part is that there is no wood waste with CLT simply because the concept can use different wood types to achieve unprecedented levels of structural strength.
Natural Glue From Wood Sap -- Contractors are going all-in with renewable and regenerative construction material, and the trend does not stop with wood products. In collaboration with biological scientists, engineers are continually trying to find an alternative to wood adhesives. Rather than rely on wood adhesives that are made from dangerous chemicals such as formaldehyde, scientists are trying to engineer wood sap for exclusive use in timber construction. Besides, the technology allows building contractors to maximise the benefits of timber products because sap is collected from fell lumber.
To learn more, contact a company that offers items like timber products.
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