Course Overview
This course develops participants' ability to design mass timber gravity systems through a structured, applied approach centred on a real exemplar project. Beginning with an analysis of an architectural scheme and project constraints, participants progress through the design of key gravity elements including beams, columns, one-way and two-way floor panels, and wall panels, with fire design integrated throughout. Emphasis is placed on understanding load paths, panelization options, and the practical implications of material selection and fabrication on design decisions. Design examples follow Canadian engineering practice and are aligned with NBCC 2020 and CSA O86 standards, with cross-validation using industry software.
Prerequisite(s)
- 60% in TMBR 3510
Credits
3.0
- Not offered this term
- This course is not offered this term. Notify me to receive email notifications when the course opens for registration next term.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to
- Analyze load paths and Mass Timber (MT) member sizing under NBCC and CSA standards
- Apply design principles for MT's most utilized products (CLT, Glulam, and DLT) in gravity load-bearing applications
- Evaluate the impact of fabrication limits and tolerances on gravity system performance
- Interpret and verify shop drawings and product specifications for gravity systems
Effective as of Fall 2026
Related Programs
Gravity Design of Mass Timber Structures (TMBR 3520) is offered as a part of the following programs:
- Indicates programs accepting international students.
School of Construction and the Environment
- Applied Mass Timber Engineering
Microcredential Part-time
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