New Industrial Projects Embrace Mass Timber
Industrial building projects in Sudbury, Ontario, are seeing a shift in construction materials as developers explore mass timber as a viable alternative to traditional steel structures. Bloomington Developments is leading this change with two new industrial buildings utilizing cross-laminated timber (CLT), marking a notable departure from the region’s longstanding preference for structural steel.
One of the projects is a sizeable two-storey industrial and commercial building, covering 48,000 square feet, expected to be finished by the end of 2025. While the building’s exterior will feature insulated steel panels sourced within Canada, much of the interior will prominently display exposed CLT elements, blending durability with natural aesthetics.
Drivers Behind the Shift from Steel to Timber
Although mass timber has been gaining popularity in various sectors, its use in industrial construction remains relatively uncommon in Canada, especially in northern regions like Sudbury. The choice to incorporate CLT reflects evolving priorities among developers and clients, who are increasingly valuing sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and innovative design approaches.
Originally, these projects were designed using steel; however, recent disruptions in steel supply chains and the associated price increases prompted a reconsideration of materials. These challenges led to engagement with CLT manufacturers and engineers, resulting in a transition to mass timber that has proven both smooth and beneficial.
Advantages of Mass Timber for Industrial Buildings
Mass timber offers several advantages over steel, including competitive pricing in current markets, a smaller environmental footprint, and aesthetic appeal that can enhance interior spaces. These factors contribute to growing interest from prospective tenants and building owners who seek sustainable building solutions and wish to reduce their overall carbon footprint.
Strong Market Demand and Long-Term Leasing
The smaller of the two mass timber buildings, located in an industrial park nearby, is slated to open mid-2025. Already, it has attracted a significant tenant who has committed to a decade-long lease, demonstrating confidence in mass timber’s performance and suitability for industrial use. This long-term lease contrasts with typical industrial leases in the area, which tend to range from three to five years for steel buildings.
Tenant demand for these mass timber spaces appears strong, particularly among corporations focused on sustainability initiatives. This interest reflects a broader industry trend where environmental considerations increasingly influence leasing and development decisions.
Industry Response and Future Prospects
Supply chain uncertainty for steel, caused by tariffs and other global factors, has prompted many in the construction industry to consider alternatives such as mass timber. This material offers not only a more stable supply in certain regions but also aligns with shifting market demands towards greener, more sustainable building methods.
Local architecture firms report increasing workloads related to wood construction projects, indicating a gradual but steady transition from steel to timber in industrial design. As demand grows, existing mass timber manufacturers are expected to expand operations, while new facilities could emerge to meet rising needs.
Upcoming Developments and Industry Growth
Looking ahead, additional industrial developments involving mass timber are planned in the Sudbury area. These include projects that combine upgrades to existing steel structures with new timber buildings, showcasing a hybrid approach that leverages the strengths of both materials.
The business case for mass timber manufacturing in northern Ontario is strengthening, but some industry players highlight the potential benefits of government incentives to support plant development and innovation. Such support could accelerate the establishment of local production facilities, reducing costs and lead times while boosting regional economic activity.
Interest from international mass timber suppliers in entering the Canadian market further underscores the sector’s growth potential. Investment from overseas companies could bring new technology, expertise, and capital, creating opportunities for collaboration and expanding local capabilities.
Growing Role for Mass Timber
The adoption of mass timber in Sudbury’s industrial sector signals a broader trend of diversification in construction materials driven by economic, environmental, and logistical factors. This movement supports sustainable development goals while addressing practical challenges posed by fluctuating steel markets.
As more developers and tenants recognize the benefits of mass timber, the material’s role in shaping the future of industrial construction in the region is poised to grow. This shift not only contributes to greener building practices but also fosters innovation and resilience within the local construction industry.