Episode #8 - Ricky McLain
The Neutral Project
April 15, 2024
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Timestamps 

0:00 - Intro

0:43 - Meet Ricky McLain

5:50 - Recent building code compliance changes and how that affects mass timber

10:30 - The changes from 2021 to 2024 International Building Code (IBC)

13:50 - Fire testing for mass timber buildings

23:25 - How to persuade local authorities and jurisdictions to allow mass timber buildings

27:25 - What “flashover” is and why is it important? 

28:40 - Flashover testing for Bakers Place

31:10 - How has mass timber engineering changed over recent years

35:50 - Seismic testing mass timber buildings

47:00 - The financial cost of mass timber

55:15 - Insurance costs for mass timber buildings

1:01:30 - Advice for getting into the mass timber industry

Episode Summary 

In our latest episode of The Neutral Podcast, we hosted Ricky McLain, Program Manager at WoodWorks, as we explored the evolving landscape of mass timber engineering and construction. 

Ricky shared insights into recent building code compliance changes and their impact on mass timber projects, particularly the nuances between the 2021 and 2024 International Building Code (IBC), shedding light on key differences and considerations for architects and engineers. Additionally, we discussed the complexities of fire and seismic testing of mass timber buildings and the difficulties of gaining local authorities' approval. On top of that, we also examined the evolution of mass timber engineering, financial considerations, and insurance costs associated with mass timber construction. Join us as we uncover the complexities of mass timber building regulations in episode 8 of The Neutral Podcast.

Resources 

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