As mass timber continues gaining traction across the Midwest, successful delivery depends on teams who understand exposed timber components. Because the timber remains exposed in the finished building, every step—from fabrication to erection—requires a higher level of planning, coordination, and installation precision than conventional structural systems.
Hausmann’s Dundee Bank project offers insight into how construction teams sequence, protect, and construct mass timber components.
Structure as the Finish
At Dundee Bank, the exposed mass timber columns, beams, and cross-laminated timber (CLT) decking serve as both the structural system and the building’s architectural feature. Unlike steel framing or conventional wood construction that is typically concealed, the timber will remain visible in the completed space.
During design and shop drawing review, our team coordinated extensively to ensure mechanical, electrical, and connection details were fully resolved in advance. Hidden fasteners and carefully planned penetrations will allow the structure to maintain the clean, natural aesthetic that makes mass timber appealing.
Protection Requires Planning
Because the wood remains exposed, protecting it throughout fabrication, transport, and installation is critical. Hausmann worked closely with mass timber supplier Timberlyne to establish protection strategies before materials arrived on site. Beams were fabricated with a factory-applied VaproShield protection system that could be partially removed for connections and resealed after installation. CLT decking was also supplied with a waterproof membrane on the top surface, allowing the structure to remain protected even as construction progresses. Daily inspections verify connections, confirm dimensions, and ensure protective materials remain intact during erection.
Logistics and Winter Installation
Mass timber installation at Dundee Bank is taking place during the winter months, adding another layer of complexity to logistics and sequencing. The building structure combines three systems—mass timber framing, structural steel, and precast exterior components—which requires detailed coordination of erection sequencing.
To limit exposure to snow and ice, timber components were delivered in smaller batches timed to match installation progress, while protection materials such as seam tape are stored in climate-controlled environments. This careful sequencing allows the team to maintain both installation efficiency and the long-term integrity of the exposed timber.
Future of Mass Timber
Mass timber continues to gain momentum across the Midwest as owners and designers seek building systems that combine structural performance, natural aesthetics, and faster installation. Because components are fabricated off-site and delivered ready for installation, crews can assemble large structural elements quickly using crane-based erection.
While installation can move rapidly, successful delivery still depends on careful pre-planning and experienced partners. As more projects incorporate exposed timber structures, teams with the expertise to plan, protect, and install these systems will play a critical role in delivering both the performance and architectural impact that make mass timber increasingly attractive.
From delegated design and precision shop drawings to protection strategies and coordination with other structural systems, mass timber requires a thoughtful, quality-driven approach—one that Hausmann is well positioned to deliver.
