Timber is wood used as a structural building material. It has been used for thousands of years and remains one of the most sustainable and versatile options available. Timber is strong, light, renewable, and easy to work with. It also stores carbon, which is a significant advantage as the construction industry looks for ways to reduce emissions.

Timber comes in many forms. Solid sawn lumber is used for framing houses. Glulam, or glued laminated timber, is made by gluing layers of wood together to create beams and columns that can span long distances. Cross-laminated timber, or CLT, is made by gluing layers of wood at right angles to create strong, stable panels. These engineered products allow timber to be used in taller and larger buildings than ever before.

Timber has challenges. It burns, so it must be protected or designed to char at a predictable rate. It can rot if exposed to moisture, so detailing must keep water out. It can be damaged by insects. But modern treatments and design practices address these issues.

Timber buildings are appearing in cities around the world, from small houses to mid-rise offices. The material is old. The possibilities are new.