Mass Timber Requirements Added to Free Heights & Areas Calculator

The American Wood Council, International Code Council and WoodWorks have joined together to release an updated version of the free app to calculate maximum allowable heights and areas for buildings of various occupancy classifications and types of construction. The Heights & Areas Calculator is based on the provisions in the 2021 and earlier editions of the International Building Code, which includes the Type-IV mass timber construction types. The app now also includes the heights and areas specific to the 2019 California Building Code, including mass timber types of construction.

Users can input the proposed building height and area for any occupancy, and the app shows allowable types of construction that are permitted. The “basic” version of the calculator limits building input to a single occupancy and equal floor areas for the entire building. An “advanced” option permits multiple occupancies and different floor areas.

“Determining allowable heights and areas for building code compliance can often be a tedious and time-intensive task for designers, builders and code officials,” said Phil Line, AWC vice president of codes & regulations. “Making this free app available on so many platforms helps make the process more user-friendly and streamlines the process for identifying compliant types of construction.”

“Wood construction offers distinct design advantages and this app makes its use more accessible,” said Bill Parsons, WoodWorks chief operating officer. “The app can be especially useful for designers dealing with mixed occupancies or looking to increase the size of their mid-rise projects, maximizing the value of their buildings.”

The Heights & Areas Calculator is available on Android, iOS and Windows devices as well as directly on the AWC website at: awc.org/calculators/heights-and-areas-calculator.