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.
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.
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. Plus, WoodWorks Ontario will present a special session on connection-related updates from the Canadian Wood Council and an introduction to the free technical support and resources available through our 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) Post-Congress Tours Thursday, September 25, 2025 City Tour (Vancouver East Full Day) City Tour (Vancouver Central Full Day) 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 full day workshop is designed for structural engineers looking for an opportunity to learn more about lateral load and design of wood structures. In this workshop you will: Be introduced to the development of loads according to the National Building Code (NBCC) Learn about the most recent lateral design provisions based on the wood design standard (CSA O86-19/24) Develop proficiency in lateral design including mid-rise and hybrid buildings Be introduced to advanced design concepts, including lateral load distribution based on flexible and rigid diaphragm assumptions, distribution within wall lines based on stiffness of wall panels, eccentricity and torsional moment, capacity-based design considerations, and more Be introduced to the new provisions for cross-laminated timber shearwall provisions
- This full day workshop is designed for structural engineers looking for an opportunity to learn more about lateral load and design of wood structures. In this workshop you will: Be introduced to the development of loads according to the National Building Code (NBCC) Learn about the most recent lateral design provisions based on the wood design standard (CSA O86-19/24) Develop proficiency in lateral design including mid-rise and hybrid buildings Be introduced to advanced design concepts, including lateral load distribution based on flexible and rigid diaphragm assumptions, distribution within wall lines based on stiffness of wall panels, eccentricity and torsional moment, capacity-based design considerations, and more Be introduced to the new provisions for cross-laminated timber shearwall provisions
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.
- This webinar will provide guidance on the design and construction of permanent wood foundations (PWF) based on the Canadian standard CSA S406-16 – Specification of Permanent Wood Foundations for Housing and Small Buildings. Topics will include site selection, backfilling, PWF floor systems, air and vapour barriers, insulation techniques, crawl spaces, and design considerations for high wind and seismic zones. The presentation will give attendees a comprehensive overview of the structural and building science requirements for designing and constructing PWF systems. Learning Outcomes: History of PWF construction Wood preservatives and material requirements for PWF Overview of pertinent design and construction aspects of PWF Standardization of PWF as per CSA S406 Building science considerations for PWF systems
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.
- 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: May 21st, 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.
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/
- 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.
- WoodWorks Alberta is teaming up with Simpson Strong-Tie for an in-person workshop in Calgary this April—designed to bring Alberta’s design and construction professionals the latest in structural connector systems, fasteners, and engineered solutions. You’ll hear from Timothy Wagner, P.Eng., Simpson Strong-Tie’s Branch Engineer for Western Canada, as he walks 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. Plus, WoodWorks Alberta will present a special session on connection-related updates from the Canadian Wood Council and an introduction to the free technical support and resources available through our program. Breakfast, lunch, and continuing education credits are included—don’t miss this opportunity to connect with industry leaders and sharpen your skills.
- WoodWorks Alberta is teaming up with Simpson Strong-Tie for an in-person workshop in Edmonton this April—designed to bring Alberta’s design and construction professionals the latest in structural connector systems, fasteners, and engineered solutions. You’ll hear from Timothy Wagner, P.Eng., Simpson Strong-Tie’s Branch Engineer for Western Canada, as he walks 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. Plus, WoodWorks Alberta will present a special session on connection-related updates from the Canadian Wood Council and an introduction to the free technical support and resources available through our program. Breakfast, lunch, and continuing education credits are included—don’t miss this opportunity to connect with industry leaders and sharpen your skills.
- Join us for an in-depth discussion on the evolving landscape of modular and prefabricated construction. This session will explore how to evaluate and integrate different levels of prefabrication based on project goals, site conditions, and logistical constraints. Key topics include site planning, design coordination, transportation logistics, and navigating regulatory requirements. We’ll also delve into technical considerations—comparing mass timber and drywall fire ratings, evaluating STC performance, and planning for MEP sub-module integration. The session will conclude with strategies for structural design of modular systems and insights on avoiding common post-construction pitfalls. Grounded in lessons learned from a completed multi-family volumetric modular CLT project, this presentation offers practical tools for design professionals, engineers, and developers looking to optimize prefabrication in their projects. Learning Outcomes: Understand key decision-making criteria for selecting appropriate prefabrication strategies. Apply a framework for integrating prefabrication into project planning and delivery. Recognize technical challenges and solutions in modular design, including fire ratings, acoustics, and MEP coordination. Identify best practices for optimizing structural integration and avoiding post-construction issues.
This Guide is designed to help educators increase wood content in their already crowded curricula, exposing students to the unique challenges and opportunities of designing with advanced wood systems, within the context of the program and student performance criteria established, maintained, and evaluated by the Canadian Architectural Certification Board.
OTTAWA, ON, 1 APR 2025 – The Canadian Wood Council (CWC) is pleased to announce the release of five new Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for Canadian softwood lumber, oriented strand board (OSB), plywood, trusses, and prefabricated wood I-joists. These EPDs provide comprehensive, transparent environmental data on the potential impacts associated with the cradle-to-gate life cycle stages of these essential wood products.
Developed as regionalized, industry-wide business-to-business (B2B) Type III declarations, the EPDs comply with the highest international standards, including ISO 21930, ISO 14025, ISO 14040, ISO 14044, the governing product category rules, and ASTM General Program Instructions for Type III EPDs. This ensures credible, third-party verified environmental impact data, supporting designers, builders, and policymakers in making informed, sustainable material choices.
“The release of these new EPDs reinforces our commitment to transparency and sustainability in the wood products sector,” said Peter Moonen, National Sustainability Manager at the Canadian Wood Council. “By providing robust, science-based environmental information, we’re equipping the industry with the tools needed to demonstrate the environmental benefits of wood and support low-carbon construction.”
The EPDs are available for download from the Canadian Wood Council’s digital resource hub: www.cwc.ca
| EPD | Link |
| An Industry Average EPD for Canadian Pre-fabricated Wood I-Joists | View Resource |
| A Regionalized Industry Average EPD for Canadian Softwood Lumber | View Resource |
| A Regionalized Industry Average EPD for Canadian Oriented Strand Board | View Resource |
| An Industry Average EPD for Canadian Softwood Plywood | View Resource |
| A Regionalized Industry Average EPD for Canadian Wood Trusses | View Resource |
