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.
Exposed Mass Timber Calculator
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.
- Stay tuned for details regarding ticket prices and availability! WoodWorks is once again partnering with BUILDEX Vancouver in 2026 to deliver WoodWorks @ BUILDEX — a dedicated program that brings together wood design innovation, technical expertise, and industry perspectives from across Western Canada. This two-day collaboration within BUILDEX will feature 12 education sessions designed to equip architects, engineers, developers, and builders with the latest strategies, technologies, and lessons learned from the field. Some topics include… Business and construction case studies (demonstrating successful projects or processes) Tackling common construction site challenges (installation best practices, moisture mitigation, sequencing strategies) Applied sustainable forestry and sourcing (reclaimed lumber, design for deconstruction, local supply chain solutions) Affordable housing and innovative delivery models Seismic innovations for light-frame mid-rise buildings Hybrid systems combining wood with steel or concrete Prefab and modular applications (light-frame and mass timber) Industry forecasting and economic viability studies Call for Speakers Whether you’ve led a groundbreaking project, developed new approaches to common challenges, or have insights into where the industry is headed, we want to hear from you. Share your expertise as a speaker at WoodWorks @ BUILDEX 2026. The Call for Speakers is open until September 3, 2025. Submit your proposal here. About BUILDEX Vancouver BUILDEX is Western Canada’s largest building and construction event, connecting thousands of design, construction, and real estate professionals. Over two days, attendees explore 350+ exhibits, hear from 200+ industry experts, and discover products, services, and ideas that are shaping the built environment.
- This workshop will present the latest technical information available on our Simpson Strong-Tie product line. This includes the soon-to-be released Strong-Rod Systems catalogue, the recently released 2025 Wood Construction Connectors catalogue, the 2021 Strong-Wall® Shearwalls catalogue, and technical bulletins for Simpson structural fasteners and Simpson concrete anchoring products. Join us for a special, all-day training event. Breakfast, Lunch, and continuing education credits will be provided.
- Join us for a unique house tour showcasing a home constructed with cutting-edge mass timber technology. Witness how this remarkable structure was erected in just 4 days using mass timber panels, revolutionizing traditional construction timelines. Our presentation will highlight the innovation behind this build before guiding you through each level of the home. Enjoy light snacks, engage with our team to learn more about the project, and receive a professional development certificate. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the future of construction!
August 5, 2025 – (Ottawa, ON) The Canadian Wood Council (CWC) welcomes today’s announcement by Prime Minister Mark Carney in Kelowna, unveiling a $1.2 billion investment to support Canada’s forest sector and accelerate the use of Canadian wood in domestic construction.
The measures – including $700 million in loan guarantees and $500 million to advance innovation, workforce development, and market diversification – send a strong signal of support for sustainable construction and domestic manufacturing. CWC is encouraged to see federal action aligned with the priorities it has long championed through its technical work in codes and standards and resource program delivery.
“This announcement reinforces the critical role that wood-based solutions can play in meeting Canada’s housing and climate goals,” said Rick Jeffery, President and CEO of the Canadian Wood Council. “The focus on innovation, capacity expansion, and domestic use of wood aligns well with technical insights we’ve shared over many years through our work with government, industry, and the architects, engineers, construction professionals, and developers (AECD) community.”
CWC has worked closely with federal departments and agencies, including Natural Resources Canada, on initiatives such as the Green Construction through Wood (GCWood) program, which has demonstrated the ability to de-risk early projects and help scale up Modern Methods of Construction (MMC). These approaches, such as mass timber and prefabrication, are essential to accelerating housing starts while reducing carbon emissions and supporting rural economies across Canada.
“With the Build Canada Homes plan targeting 500,000 new units annually, today’s announcement provides important tools to help scale construction innovation,” Jeffery added. “Ensuring that Canadian wood products are part of the solution is a smart investment in housing, climate action, and economic resilience.”
CWC will continue its work providing technical assistance, education, and data-driven insight to support the successful implementation of federal initiatives. The organization remains committed to working with all levels of government and industry partners to help increase the use of sustainable wood systems in construction.
What does it take to deliver better buildings? In this issue, we explore that question from a couple of different angles—primarily through a look at standout wood projects that demonstrate wood design excellence, but also through a thoughtful feature on offsite prefabrication that invites the construction industry to think critically about how we build and what it will take to build better. Through enhanced collaboration and the expanded use of technology, prefabricated construction—an approach especially well-suited to wood—is transforming the way we design and deliver buildings.
This fall, the Canadian Wood Council is proud to support Woodrise 2025, an international conference coming to Vancouver, British Columbia. As part of this event, the 5th International Congress on tall wood construction, we’ve curated nine immersive tours that offer attendees a unique opportunity to step inside some of the region’s most compelling wood projects for a firsthand look at the leadership and innovation happening here.
If you believe one of the best ways to learn about a building is to walk through it—this is your chance. The full tour lineup is available now at www.woodrise2025.com/offsite-tours. Join us to explore everything from sustainable forest management and advanced manufacturing to some of the region’s most iconic mass timber buildings – experiences that bring together the people, materials, and design approaches shaping the future of low-carbon construction in B.C. and beyond.
We hope this issue inspires you to keep exploring what’s possible with wood—whether in your own projects or out with us on tour.
- 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 what is possible in 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 superior aesthetic appeal. The insights from these two projects present stakeholders with helpful considerations and valuable strategies for integrating mass timber into future developments. Learning Outcomes: Participants will learn how to create flexible, multi-tenant industrial layouts using mass timber systems that are able to accommodate evolving tenant needs. Participants will gain insight into how early-stage collaboration with mass timber suppliers streamlines design, engineering, and construction processes. Participants will gain insight into the role of mass timber in biophilic design, and how its visual warmth and natural materials contribute to wellness-centred spaces that appeal to tenants. Participants will understand how mass timber can be a cost-competitive alternative to steel, especially in volatile markets, and assess its impact on embodied carbon and sustainability goals.
- This session examines the growing potential of point-supported mass timber systems in tall building construction, contrasting them with traditional timber framing and conventional steel and concrete approaches. It highlights regulator advancements, the role of mass timber in addressing mid-density housing needs, and the structural fundamentals of gravity and lateral systems. Through cost and schedule comparisons, design principles like bi-axial bending and punching shear, and insights from ongoing Canadian codification efforts, the presentation offers a comprehensive overview supported by real-world projects such as VAHA Burrard and BCIT Tall Timber. Learning Outcomes: Evaluate the opportunities and constraints for point-supported mass timber when compared to traditional timber framing schemes Analyze the schedule and cost benefits of point-supported mass timber systems versus steel and concrete in tall construction projects Explore state-of-the-art design methodologies and ongoing efforts towards codification in Canada Eager to learn more? Check out our free publication, Feasibility of Point-Supported Mass Timber, available now on our Digital Resource Hub: https://cwc.ca/publication/feasibility-of-point-supported-mass-timber/
OTTAWA, ON, 18 July 2025 – The Canadian Wood Council (CWC) applauds the Province of Nova Scotia’s recent announcement regarding the prioritization of wood products for construction and heating in public buildings – a strategic move that supports economic growth, climate resilience, and innovation in the province’s forestry sector.
By committing to mass timber and other solid wood products for construction, alongside the use of wood pellets, biomass, and other products made from forest residuals for heat and energy, Nova Scotia is taking a leadership approach to development that aligns environmental stewardship with economic opportunity.
This initiative reinforces the principles of a circular economy built on sustainable forest management. This comprehensive approach to fibre utilization ensures the province is maximizing the value of harvested wood and reducing waste while simultaneously supporting jobs, stimulating rural economies, and strengthening local and regional supply chains across the forestry and construction sectors.
“This commitment from the province of Nova Scotia not only supports local forestry and bioeconomy innovation, but also delivers practical solutions to reduce emissions, improve energy security, and build with a lighter carbon footprint,” says Rick Jeffery, President & CEO of the Canadian Wood Council. It’s a smart and timely commitment to sustainability that will strengthen local industries while advancing practical, low-carbon building solutions.”
View the announcement from Nova Scotia Public Works and Nova Scotia Natural Resources here: https://news.novascotia.ca/en/2025/07/17/government-promotes-wood-construction-heating
Save the date! WoodWorks Alberta and the Canadian Wood Council are bringing the Wood Solutions Conference to Calgary in November — and you won’t want to miss it.
Tickets will be available soon! Stay tuned for updates on Early Bird registration and event details.
- Join us November 21, 2025, at The Westin Calgary Airport for Alberta’s premier event dedicated to wood design and construction. This one-day conference will bring together expert-led seminars, cutting-edge innovations in wood building systems, and top-tier networking opportunities for professionals in architecture, engineering, and construction. Tickets will be available soon! Stay tuned for details on Early Bird pricing and registration. Location:The Westin Calgary Airport671 Aero Drive NECalgary, AB T2E 7Y5
- WoodWorks at The Buildings Show 2025Presented in partnership with the Canadian Wood Council The Canadian Wood Council and The Buildings Show have joined forces to bring WoodWorks to North America’s premier event for design and construction professionals. This new collaboration enhances the Show’s core offering with a focused spotlight on wood innovation, sustainability, and technical excellence. What to Expect:WoodWorks at The Buildings Show will offer a deep dive into the evolving role of wood in Canada’s built environment through: 6 hours of accredited educational sessions dedicated to wood product construction, spanning mass timber, offsite systems, and Indigenous-led design. Exclusive access to wood experts from across the supply chain—including manufacturers, consultants, and technical specialists. Dedicated expo pavilions in both the North and South buildings, showcasing structural and architectural wood products at the heart of Canada’s largest building event. WoodWorks Educational Programming:Presented by the Canadian Wood Council over two days: Wednesday, December 3 WS103 – Tall Wood in Canada: Current State, Opportunities, and New InitiativesSpeakers: Canadian Wood Council, WoodWorks Ontario WNM101 – Offsite Construction in Ontario: A Practical and Diligent Path ForwardSpeakers: Forest Economic Advisors, Auto Construct Incorporated WN102 – Building Success: The Nshwaasnangong Child Care and Family Centre StorySpeaker: Two Row Architect WN103 – Mass Timber Economics: Beyond the Bottom LineSpeakers: Clark Construction Management Inc., bnkc architecture + urban design Thursday, December 4 TN101 – Design and Construction of Permanent Wood FoundationsSpeaker: Sustainafree TNM101 – The Future of Tall: The Future of CitiesSpeaker: Antony Wood Consulting Join us to connect with leaders shaping the future of wood construction in Canada.
Tall wood buildings offer tremendous potential for low-carbon, high-performance construction, but they also introduce a distinct set of challenges not typically encountered in conventional approaches. Design teams new to this form of construction may be unfamiliar with the systematic approach needed to enhance affordability and efficiency in these buildings.
Within the spectrum of structural solutions for mass timber, point-supported CLT is a compelling option for tall building applications. Teams must understand how to harness its unique benefits and navigate its limitations to unlock its full potential. When applied effectively, point-supported approaches can improve efficiency, reduce material usage, and unlock new pathways to cost-competitive tall timber construction.
- Join WoodWorks Ontario’s Hailey Quiquero and Steven Street for a guided exploration of two groundbreaking tall timber buildings on Toronto’s waterfront. This exclusive tour includes: T3 Bayside: A next-generation timber office building designed around the principles of Timber, Transit, and Technology. Enjoy views from the rooftop terrace and 10th floor, and explore show suites, fitness and amenity spaces, and innovative timber construction. Limberlost Place: A 10-storey, award-winning academic building at George Brown College, showcasing mass timber innovation—from solar chimneys and natural ventilation to its beamless floor design and three-storey columns. Don’t miss this opportunity to see two landmark mass timber projects and hear directly from the professionals behind them. Tour Leads: Hailey Quiquero & Steven Street, WoodWorks Ontario Date: Thursday, October 9, 2025 Times: Morning (9:00AM–12:15PM) or Afternoon (1:30PM–4:45PM) Meeting Point: T3 Bayside, 251 Queens Quay E, Toronto, ON Note: Tour is part of the From the Ground Up Conference programming and attendees are required to purchase a core conference ticket to attend the add-on programs such as the off-site tours.
KITCHENER, ON — The Canadian Wood Council (CWC) was proud to participate in a significant announcement by the Government of Ontario yesterday, where the Honourable Mike Harris, Minister of Natural Resources, and the Honourable Kevin Holland, Associate Minister of Forestry and Forest Products, launched Ontario’s Advanced Wood Construction Action Plan.
The Action Plan outlines a strong, strategic commitment to advancing the use of mass timber and prefabricated wood systems—technologies that can deliver high-performance buildings while supporting job creation and investment across Ontario’s forestry, manufacturing, and construction sectors.
As the national association representing manufacturers of Canadian wood products, CWC welcomes this important step forward. Through its technical resource program, WoodWorks, the Council is committed to supporting the growth of advanced wood construction by providing guidance, education, and project support to professionals across the building sector.
“This is about solving today’s challenges while laying the groundwork for long-term economic growth—with industrialized wood construction driving that transformation forward,” said Steven Street, Executive Director of WoodWorks Ontario.
The Action Plan includes investments in research, education, training, and manufacturing, positioning Ontario as a leader in low-carbon, efficient, and sustainable construction. CWC applauds the province’s leadership and looks forward to continuing its collaboration with public and private partners to advance the adoption of made-in-Ontario wood solutions.
To read the full plan, visit: https://www.ontario.ca/page/advanced-wood-construction-action-plan
The Canadian Wood Council is pleased to share it’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.
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.
