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The Ontario Building Code (OBC) has introduced major changes to expand the use of encapsulated mass timber construction (EMTC) across various building occupancies and heights. These updates provide architects and developers with greater design flexibility and material options.

Key Code Changes:

1. Increased Building Heights:

  • The OBC now permits EMTC buildings up to 18 storeys, an increase from the previous limit of 12 storeys.

2. Expanded Building Occupancies:

EMTC is now permits for a broader range of occupancies, including:

  • Group A: Assembly occupancies (e.g., schools, community centres).
  • Group B, Division 3: Care (e.g., certain care facilities).
  • Group C: Residential occupancies.
  • Group D: Business and personal services occupancies (e.g., offices).
  • Group E: Mercantile occupancies (e.g., retail spaces).
  • Group F: Industrial occupancies (e.g., light- and medium-hazard industrial facilities).

3. Exposed Mass Timber Allowances:

  • The code revisions permit more exposed mass timber elements, particularly in buildings up to eight storeys, enhancing architectural aesthetics while maintaining safety standards.

Potential Applications:

These code modifications open new avenues for architects and developers to incorporate mass timber in diverse projects:

  • Residential Buildings: Design and construction of multi-family housing up to 18 storeys, offering sustainable and aesthetically pleasing living spaces. Up to 8 storey buildings can be 100% exposed timber.
  • Educational Facilities: Development of schools and universities utilizing mass timber, benefiting from reduced construction times and environmental impact. Up to 6 storey buildings can be 100% exposed timber.
  • Commercial Spaces (Group D): Creation of offices, with exposed timber elements, providing unique and inviting environments. Up to 8 storey buildings can be 100% exposed timber.
  • Industrial Buildings: Development of light- and medium-hazard industrial facilities using mass timber, combining structural efficiency with sustainability.

These updates to the OBC offer architects and developers broader possibilities for incorporating mass timber across diverse building types and heights. By enabling its use in more complex projects, the OBC fosters architectural innovation and advances material versatility in construction.