WoodWorks Regional Directors supported decision-makers at pivotal moments in light-frame projects, such as Seagaze Apartments in Oceanside, California, to prevent material substitution, resolve permitting friction, and protect project economics. Rendering Credit: Prime Design

WoodWorks Supports Lumber Specification at Critical Decision Points

Light-frame construction remains central to the SLB’s long-term strategy, particularly in mid-rise multifamily and urban infill development. In 2025, 66% of WoodWorks’ directly influenced projects were light-frame, representing 354 MM BF of lumber. Regional Directors supported decision-makers at pivotal moments to prevent material substitution, resolve permitting friction, and protect project economics.

Key interventions included:

• Preserving light-frame construction on a nine-building affordable housing development with zero lot lines by identifying compliant UL-listed light-frame wall assemblies that maintained fire separation without shifting to higher-cost materials.

• Advising on sprinkler, concealed space, and construction type strategies in 3-over-1 projects to eliminate unnecessary podium construction and reduce fire-resistance costs.

• Clarifying gypsum continuity and shaft termination requirements to avoid rework and schedule delays.

• Introducing strategies and details for addressing shrinkage with all-wood structural systems, a concern in large light-frame projects.

Together, these actions preserved incremental board feet in cost-sensitive projects and reinforced light-frame wood as a repeatable, scalable solution.

MARKET IMPACT

• Maintains light-frame dominance in mid-rise multifamily.

• Reduces redesign risk and code friction.

• Protects lumber’s competitive cost position in high-opportunity segments.