Welcome to the CWC Portal
Wood Design Tools & Calculators
The Canadian Wood Council (CWC) offers simple, easy-to-use, and free design tools to help architects, engineers, and builders work more efficiently with wood. From electronic design calculators to practical construction guides, our resources make wood design more accessible and straightforward.
CWC offers a number of free resources available to wood professionals as well as wood enthusiasts.
Wind & Seismic Bracing Calculator
This interactive tool intends to aid in the design of the minimum braced wall panel length required for the houses based on seismic and wind forces.
Climate zone-appropriate insulated wall assembly solutions that are easily comparable with national and provincial energy efficiency prescriptive provisions.
Calculate load-carrying capacity for wood beams efficiently. Provides quick, code-compliant results for safe and reliable designs.
Dimension Calculator
Easily convert lumber dimensions for accurate planning. Ideal for ensuring precise cuts and minimizing waste.
Estimate lumber volume for your projects. Simplify material planning and cost estimation with accurate results.
Carbon Calculator
Both the amount of carbon stored and the amount of greenhouse gas emissions avoided.
Code CHEK
Ensure your designs meet safety standards. Verify compliance with the latest building codes for hassle-free projects.
FRR & STC Tool
Evaluate fire resistance and sound performance. Optimize designs to meet safety and acoustic standards easily.
Bolt Selection Table Viewer
Evaluate fire resistance and sound performance. Optimize designs to meet safety and acoustic standards easily.
Bolt Calculator
Performs design calculations for bolted connections in accordance with CSA O86:24 Clause 12.4.
The Canadian Wood Council’s Design Tools have been developed for information purposes only. Although all possible efforts have been made to ensure that the information on these tools is accurate, the CWC cannot under any circumstances guarantee the completeness, accuracy or exactness of the information. Reference should always be made to the appropriate Building Code and/or Standard. This tool should not be relied upon as a substitute for legal or design advice, and the user is responsible for how the tool is used or applied.
Explore Additional Tools
Expand your design capabilities with advanced tools tailored for timber construction. From calculators to performance modeling, these resources enhance your workflow for precise and efficient project execution.
Cecobois Online Tools
Climate zone-appropriate insulated wall assembly solutions that are easily comparable with national and provincial energy efficiency prescriptive provisions.
AWC Online Tools
Discover innovative tools designed to streamline your wood construction projects. Optimize design processes and explore solutions crafted for modern timber engineering.
Discover the WoodWorks® Software
Learn how the WoodWorks Software supports design and construction professionals with expert resources, tools, and free technical support for innovative wood building projects.
Explore Premium
Content and Resources
From best practices to innovative techniques, find everything you need to succeed in timber construction.
Nous avons le plaisir de vous présenter le Rapport annuel 2024 du Conseil canadien du bois (CCB), qui met en lumière les progrès, la résilience et les retombées concrètes réalisés au cours de la dernière année.
Dans son message, Kevin Pankratz, président du conseil d’administration, souligne le rôle stratégique du Conseil dans un contexte économique complexe et en constante évolution. Il met l’accent sur l’importance d’une gouvernance forte, d’une collaboration soutenue et d’une vision commune pour maintenir l’élan du secteur et assurer sa compétitivité à long terme. Ce rapport rappelle la nécessité de préserver une voix unifiée au sein de notre fédération et de rester clairs sur notre mission nationale.
Rick Jeffery, président-directeur général, revient sur une année marquée par la rigueur et l’adaptabilité. Il souligne les avancées en matière de soutien technique, l’influence croissante dans l’élaboration des codes et normes, ainsi que l’élargissement des programmes de formation et de sensibilisation à l’échelle nationale. Grâce à des investissements gouvernementaux renouvelés et une reconnaissance accrue du rôle du bois dans la construction bas carbone, le CCB est bien positionné pour mener la prochaine phase de croissance du secteur au Canada.
We are pleased to share the Canadian Wood Council’s 2024 Annual Report, offering a clear view of the progress, resilience, and impact achieved over the past year.
In his message, Chairman Kevin Pankratz reflects on the Council’s strategic leadership during a year marked by economic pressures and shifting market conditions. Emphasis is placed on the value of collaboration, strong governance, and industry alignment as essential to maintaining momentum and ensuring long-term competitiveness. The report reinforces the importance of maintaining a united voice across our membership and fostering clarity in our purpose as a national federation.
From the President & CEO’s perspective, Rick Jeffery outlines how the organization navigated 2024 with focus and adaptability—delivering trusted technical guidance, growing influence in codes and standards, and expanding national education and outreach efforts. With renewed government investment and increased awareness of low-carbon construction, the Council is well-positioned to lead the next chapter of growth for Canada’s wood sector.
Who can use this document:
Contractors, Developers, Owners and Design Teams.
How to use this document:
This document is an editable form that teams can fill out to aid in collecting mass timber project-specific information to share with their insurance team.
When to use this document:
A project team should engage a broker or underwriter as early as possible in the planning stages of a construction project, ideally during the initial design phase or when the project scope is being defined.
How will this help me:
The goal is to provide project-specific information about mass timber, pre-emptively addressing some of the common questions and concerns insurers may have to pave the way for a more efficient and informed process when working with your broker or underwriter. Keep in mind that this document is not intended to address all topics nor be a universally accepted form that provides all necessary information to insurers.
- Join CTBUH at the recently completed Limberlost Place, a new addition to George Brown College’s Waterfront Campus. This event will whet appetites for a wider discussion to be held at the CTBUH 2025 International Conference, taking place from 6 – 9 October 2025. Following an introduction from CTBUH CEO Javier Quintana de Uña, the presentations and discussion will delve into policies, projects and design practices geared towards creating the best space for the occupant, by maximizing social interaction, utilizing recycled and/or sustainable materials, and connecting projects to wider city networks and infrastructure. Limberlost Place will be featured prominently as a case-study as we offer an inside look at the building. Following the panel discussion, join us for a networking reception with opportunities to tour more of the building with key members of the project team. Program: What’s Next in the Industry, and for CTBUH Javier Quintana de Uña, CTBUH CEO Sustainable Placemaking in Toronto: Connecting Developments to a Wider Urban Network James Parakh, City of Toronto Creating Innovative Spaces for a Global Impact Panel Discussion with representatives involved with the conception, construction, development of Limberlost Place at George Brown College: — Steven Street, Executive Director, Woodworks Ontario | Canadian Wood Council (Moderator) — Nerys Rau, Director, Design and Construction and Project Director – Limberlost Place Development, George Brown College — Carol Phillips, Partner, Moriyama Teshima Architects — Krista Palen, Partner, Transsolar Networking Reception & Building Tours Network over drinks and light bites with an opportunity to see more of the building.
Mark your calendars! WoodWorks Atlantic and the Canadian Wood Council are pleased to present the Wood Solutions Conference in Halifax this fall — and we want you there.
Tickets will be available in August! Stay tuned for details regarding Early Bird Registration!
- Join us November 19–20, 2025, at the Lord Nelson Hotel & Suites for Atlantic Canada’s premier event dedicated to wood design and construction. This two-day conference and trade show will feature expert-led seminars, cutting-edge innovations, and valuable networking opportunities for professionals in architecture, engineering, and construction. Tickets will be available in August! Stay tuned for details regarding Early Bird Registration! Location: The Lord Nelson Hotel & Suites 1515 South Park Street Halifax, NS B3J 2L2 Full conference details and registration info coming soon. Whether you’re focused on sustainability, looking to expand your toolkit, or just want to see what’s possible with wood, this is an event you won’t want to miss.
In wood construction, success is rarely improvised. It’s the earned result of early design coordination, clearly communicated expectations, and a shared commitment to getting the details right—from design concept through to completion. Whether a project’s priority is accelerated construction timelines, lasting architectural impact, future disassembly and reuse, or all these things and more, the through line is thoughtful, deliberate planning.
As a structural system, timber calls for a high degree of coordination—especially as its applications continue to evolve and expand. It rewards teams who design with intent: those who understand that every exposed surface carries architectural weight, that detecting clashes early in the design phase avoids costly rework during construction, and that planning for a building’s end-of-life is just as essential as designing its first impression.
Society’s growing demand for low-carbon construction brings new urgency—and opportunity—to these conversations. As we continue to advance prefabricated, high-performance, and demountable wood building systems, the need for early alignment—between architect and engineer, builder and client—is not just integral to the success of individual projects, but to the advancement of the industry as a whole.
This issue of Wood Design & Building leans into that reality. As construction methods evolve, we examine how clear communication and coordination don’t just mitigate risk—they drive better outcomes for the built environment. In a construction landscape that values speed, efficiency, and low-carbon outcomes, it’s advanced planning and clear communication that turn ambition into meaningful results.
We’re not just building with wood. We’re building with purpose, intention, and care. And that process starts long before the first beam or panel is lifted into place.
- Woodrise 2025 is the premier international congress dedicated to the future of mid- and high-rise timber construction. Hosted by FPInnovations in collaboration with FCBA and JUBH, this event brings together global leaders in architecture, engineering, policy, and industry to explore the latest advancements in mass timber and sustainable building practices. With over 2,000 participants from 25+ countries, 30+ international speakers, and a 25,000+ sqft exhibition space featuring 60+ exhibitors, Woodrise 2025 is a key platform for: Networking & B2B Meetings – Connect with industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators. Insightful Discussions – Gain valuable perspectives on sustainability, regulations, and emerging trends. Showcasing Innovation – Discover groundbreaking projects and technologies shaping the future of wood construction. Who Attends? Woodrise attracts professionals from across the building, forestry, and manufacturing industries, including: Architects, Engineers, and Developers Mass Timber Manufacturers and Suppliers Government Officials and Policymakers Researchers, Educators, and Students Set against the stunning backdrop of Vancouver, a global hub for mass timber innovation, Woodrise 2025 will inspire and engage attendees in shaping the future of sustainable construction. Join us for an event where knowledge meets innovation, and connections create opportunity.
The Engineering Complex at UNB is comprised of five buildings, all constructed at different times, and physically connected as one. The first building constructed in 1901, was the original Engineering Building, designed in the Romanesque Revival style, followed closely thereafter by the former Gymnasium, converted in 1944 to the Electrical Engineering Build-ing. In 1957, an expansion to the western side of the two original engineering buildings was made. Sir Edmund Head Hall, a five-storey, 13,600 sq.m (140,000 sf) addition was con-structed to the north of the previous mentioned buildings. Gillin Hall was added to the west side of Head Hall in 1989 and the Information Technology Centre was added to the south of Gillin Hall along Windsor Street in 2000.
In April of 2017, UNB requested Murdock & Boyd Architects to come up with a design solution for a new prominent Main Entrance to the Head Hall Engineering Complex, one that celebrates the engineering programs that are delivered at this institution. The space is designed to allow for and promote the collaboration and interaction of students and faculty, provide for additional graduate study areas, larger crush space from the Dineen Auditorium and a space to exhibit and visually celebrate all the disciplines of the world renowned UNB Engineering programs and its graduates.
- In this webinar, you’ll gain insight into the design and manufacturing considerations involved in using glulam in buildings. As one of the oldest mass timber products used in Canada, glulam offers exceptional flexibility and can be incorporated into a wide range of building types—particularly where curvature and expressive geometry are key. Presenters will outline design and manufacturing strategies for creating efficient structures, showing how glulam can be used not just as columns and beams, but as the primary structure in today’s innovative buildings—whether architecturally driven or focused on value and efficiency. They will also cover the availability of glulam products across Canada and explain how to maximize the value of the timber used. Practical tips will be shared to help designers and specifiers take full advantage of glulam’s attributes in a cost-efficient way. Understanding Glulam: The structural and architectural capabilities of mass timber Date: June 5th, 2025 Time: 1 PM Eastern Time Duration: 1 hour Learning Outcomes: Participants will learn the design strategies employed when using curvature and geometry in buildings and gain an understanding of what is possible with expressive architecture. Participants will understand the practical constraints of glulam manufacturing, including how to approach the design and specification of glulam members. Participants will learn how different wood species and strength grades are applied in glulam design, and how to use them efficiently for optimal performance. Participants will understand how geometry, fire ratings, and member layups influence the cost-efficiency and design potential of glulam systems.
- Course Description Mass timber is at the forefront of the shift toward more sustainable, low-carbon construction, offering a compelling example of how innovative materials can shape the future of our cities. As tall timber construction continues to gain momentum across Canada, the possibilities for sustainable and forward-thinking design have significantly expanded. This session explores the state of tall wood adoption, highlighting recent regulatory advancements, including code updates that now permit encapsulated mass timber buildings up to 18 storeys. Join us for this exclusive lecture! Learning Objectives Identify recent updates to the Ontario Building Code (OBC) and British Columbia Building Code (BCBC) that expand provisions for Encapsulated Mass Timber Construction, and explain their implications for tall wood projects in Canada. Analyze different innovative structural systems used in tall mass timber construction and compare their benefits and potential applications. Evaluate real-world examples of completed tall wood construction projects in Canada to understand design strategies, structural approaches, and performance outcomes. Assess the role of WoodWorks and the Canadian Wood Council in advancing wood construction practices, and effectively apply their tools and technical resources to support wood building design.
This workshop covers wood construction connectors, design apps, mass timber connectors, mass timber fasteners, structural screws, and anchor systems, with demonstrations on hanger testing, fastener installation, and anchor installation and testing.
- WoodWorks Ontario is teaming up with Simpson Strong-Tie for an in-person workshop in Brampton this May—designed to bring Ontario’s design and construction professionals the latest in structural connector systems, fasteners, and engineered solutions. You’ll hear from experts from Simpson Strong-Tie as they walk through the latest technical updates, including a preview of the soon-to-be-released Strong-Rod Systems catalogue, highlights from the new 2025 Wood Construction Connectors catalogue, and insights into Strong-Wall® Shearwalls and structural fastening systems. Additionally, WoodWorks Ontario will present a special session that explores market trends in light wood framing and mass timber. This session will focus on the new possibilities in building codes and showcase project examples. They will also introduce the free technical support and resources available through the WoodWorks program. Breakfast, lunch, and continuing education credits are included—don’t miss this opportunity to connect with industry leaders and sharpen your skills.
Discover the innovative world of timber construction through a series of exclusive offsite tours during Woodrise. Explore Vancouver and beyond as you visit groundbreaking commercial, community, and residential projects that highlight the beauty, sustainability, and ingenuity of wood in modern architecture.
- Pre-Congress Tour Monday, September 22, 2025 City Tour (Vancouver East Half Day) – SOLD OUT! Post-Congress Tours Thursday, September 25, 2025 City Tour (Vancouver East Full Day) City Tour (Vancouver Central Full Day) – SOLD OUT! City Tour (Vancouver North, Full Day) City Tour (Vancouver South, Full Day) Beyond the City Tour (UBC Campus, Full Day) Beyond the City Tour (Squamish Region, Full Day) Beyond the City Tour (Vancouver Island, Full Day) Beyond the City Tour (Kootenay Region, Multi Day) Click here for more details and ticket information on all the Woodrise 2025 Offsite Tours.
This report serves as a practical guide for small to medium-sized enterprises, start-ups, and builders looking to transition into offsite construction. With a specific focus on prefabricated elements and modular systems, it offers actionable guidance for manufacturers considering process expansion or upgrades. Covering critical topics such as business planning, transformational change, financial efficiency, design for manufacturing and assembly (DfMA), and technology integration, the report emphasizes that success in offsite construction depends not only on technical capability, but also on strategic foresight and organizational readiness.
Drawing on lessons from both successful and stalled ventures, the report identifies common pitfalls—including rushed implementation, cultural resistance, and premature technology investment—and outlines a disciplined, step-by-step approach to navigating them. Through key themes such as aligning prefabrication with business goals, managing operational change, optimizing financial strategies, and adopting technology judiciously, the report provides a roadmap for sustainable growth. Its insights advocate for a manufacturing mindset rooted in efficiency and adaptability, helping firms approach offsite construction with confidence, clarity, and resilience.
Mass timber construction offers speed, sustainability, and design flexibility – but it also requires a higher level of coordination than traditional structural systems. Its prefabricated components and tight tolerances call for early planning, clear communication, and a shared understanding across the project team. Ensuring that all partners – including those less familiar with timber construction – are aligned on these unique requirements helps avoid costly delays and, more importantly, positions the team to fully capitalize on the benefits mass timber has to offer.
The emerging use of mass timber in industrial buildings presents promising opportunities that are shaping the future of construction in this sector. As a sustainable and economically competitive alternative, mass timber is redefining industrial construction, a field traditionally dominated by prefabricated steel. An analysis of two cutting-edge projects in Sudbury, Ontario, highlights key advantages, including cost competitiveness, reduced embodied carbon, and aesthetic appeal. The insights from these two projects present stakeholders with helpful considerations and valuable strategies for integrating mass timber into future developments.
OTTAWA, ON, 23 APR 2025 – The Canadian Wood Council is accepting submissions for the 2025 Wood Design & Building Awards. Now in its 41st year, this annual program invites architects, designers, and project teams from across North America and around the world to submit their most inspiring wood projects for consideration.
“At its core, this program is a celebration of architectural excellence,” says Martin Richard, VP Market Development & Communications at the Canadian Wood Council. “Each year, we’re inspired by the many ways designers harness wood’s versatile beauty—from bold, expressive forms to quietly transformative spaces.”
Over the decades, we’ve seen the creativity and talent of hundreds of project teams bring important changes to the built environment—elevating wood from a niche material to a sustainable, mainstream design ambition. While the awards program has always shone a light on architectural excellence in wood, winning projects in recent years also frequently demonstrate innovation, technical achievement, and a strong commitment to sustainability.
Submissions will be reviewed by a distinguished jury of Canadian and American architects. Projects will be evaluated based on creativity, design excellence, and the innovative and appropriate use of wood to achieve project objectives.
Award categories for 2025 include:
- Non-residential
- Residential
- Adaptive Reuse, Additions, and Renovations
- International Building
- Other (e.g. exterior structures, bridges)
The program also includes several specialty awards:
- Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) Award
- Sansin Award
- Real Cedar Award
- Wood Preservation Canada (WPC) Award
- Regional WoodWorks Awards for Ontario, British Columbia, and the Prairies
Winners will receive a custom wood trophy and be recognized through a media announcement, social media, a feature profile on the Wood Innovation Network, and editorial coverage in Wood Design & Building Magazine (digital edition).
Key Dates
Early Bird Deadline: May 31, 2025
Final Submission Deadline: June 27, 2025
For more information and to submit your project, please visit: https://cwc.ca/wood-design-and-building-awards/
