Exterior Walls in Mass Timber Buildings – Part 5: Thermal Enclosure Design

This article outlines design strategies to optimize the thermal performance potential of mass timber enclosures. The low thermal conductivity of mass timber compared to materials like concrete and steel provides a unique opportunity to minimize heat loss and enhance energy efficiency in buildings. Effective thermal enclosure design for mass timber buildings involves key design strategies such as creating a continuous thermal control layer, minimizing thermal bridges, and using appropriately placed insulation materials. By focusing on these aspects, designers can optimize the thermal performance of mass timber buildings, resulting in energy-efficient, comfortable, and durable structures.
RDH authored this Expert Tips article for WoodWorks.