Mid-rise Timber Resources

The most recent update to the Australian National Construction Code in May 2019 made it even easier to build compliant timber framed or massive timber buildings of Classes 2 to 9 to an effective height of 25m (usually 8 storeys).

The new provisions cover both traditional lightweight timber framing and new massive timber systems such as cross laminated timber (CLT) and consist of the use of appropriate layers of fire-protective grade plasterboard – termed ‘fire-protected timber’ in the NCC – and the use of compliant automatic sprinkler systems.

On this page you'll find links to more information and resources about designing and building to maximise the benefits of the new code change.

Expert advice from WoodSolutions Mid-rise Advisers

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Talk to our Program Development team about your next project

With extensive experience in property development, construction, timber engineering and architecture, the WoodSolutions team of Program Development Managers are ideally placed to liaise with development, design and construction professionals, providing generic information and advice on making the most of the cost, time, environmental and other advice.

All advice provided by WoodSolutions team members is subject to our Disclaimer

Contact midrise@woodsolutions.com.au for more details.

Read about the 2019 Code Changes

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The 2019 Code changes extend to all Class 2 - 9 Buildings

Please note: this pilot program is only available in Victoria and Queensland

Changes to the 2019 National Construction Code Volume One (NCC) increase the range of buildings, up to an effective height of 25m, in which fire-protected timber construction systems can be used. The new Classes add schools, retail premises, hospitals and aged care facilities to the previously approved multi-residential, hospitality accommodation and office buildings.

Read more about the changes here

Download free Technical Design Guides

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Simple, accessible information to working with mid-rise timber buildings

Guide 37 - Mid-rise Timber Buildings (with CAD files)
Simple, easy-to-follow steps to meeting fire and acoustic requirements. Download here.

Guide 38 - Fire Safety Design of Mid-rise Timber Buildings
Details of the principles and fire engineering analysis done to support the 2016 changes to the NCC. Download here.

Guide 39 - Robustness in Structures
A best practice guide for Australian buildings offering advice, design methodologies and details for typical building types. Download here.

 

Free Mid-rise modules and CPD at WoodSolutions Campus

 

Three modules cover the main points of the 2017 NCC changes to mid-rise construction

NCC Design of Mid-rise Timber Building-Overview

The contents include:

  • The course and the 2016 changes to the NCC
  • Timber construction options
  • Overview of DtS solutions
  • Onsite considerations

NCC Design of Mid-rise Timber Building: Specific Requirements

The contents include:

  • Design requirements and terminology
  • Sprinklers, fire protected timber, FRL’s and RISF’s
  • Cavity barriers and non-combustible insulation

NCC Design of Mid-rise Timber Buildings: Fire, Sound and Non-Habitable Area Requirements

The contents include:

  • Fire and sound rated timber systems, including requirements for floors, ceilings, internal and external walls
  • Non-habitable areas and fire isolated stairs and passageways
  • Lift shafts and building services

Australian Institute of Architects (AIA) members who successfully complete the course’s assessment with a 100% result will also be awarded 1.5 CPD points under the AIA’s refuel program. Other CPD points may be available.

Visit WoodSolutions Campus here

View presentations from the December 2016 mid-rise design symposium

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Download and view presentations given at the Mid-rise Construction Design and Specification Symposium, RMIT Melbourne December 1st 2016.

Topics range from technical design and compliance issues to case studies. 

Visit the Symposium presentations page

Read free Timber UPdate articles

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Expert advice and opinions on the code change and its impact on development, design and construction - from architects, engineers, developers, quantity surveyors, building surveyors and more.

Timber UPdate Issue 1
Download here

Timber UPdate Issue 2
Download here

Timber UPdate Issue 3
Download here