Mass Timber Comparative Life Cycle Assessment Series

Introduction to comprehensive research series comparing embodied carbon impacts and cost of mass timber buildings to functionally equivalent steel and concrete systems. Series compilation of comparative building studies based on designed reference buildings in the United States, utilizing whole building life cycle assessment (WBLCA), dollar cost analysis, and construction speed comparisons. Studies include embodied carbon impacts of structural systems, vertical and roof enclosures, fire protection, acoustic performance, and ceiling finishes for holistic comparison. Developed collaboratively by KL&A Engineers & Builders / KL&A Team Carbon and WoodWorks with USDA U.S. Forest Service and Softwood Lumber Board funding. Emphasizes transparency in methodology, scope, and assumptions using TallyLCA tool.