TSA Technical Series: Permanent Wood Foundations

Wood—for foundations!? Across Canada, Permanent Wood Foundations (PWF) have been used for decades, often for projects where access to concrete and concrete trades is difficult or expensive. While rare in Ontario, PWFs have been widely adopted in other parts of the country, and especially in western Canada. When properly designed and detailed, these tree-based systems can be durable, long-lasting, and low-carbon. 

Join us for our next TSA Technical Lecture where Adam Robertson, Co-Founder and Principal of Sustainatree Consulting, will demystify PWFs and share guidance on their design and construction based on the latest Canadian Standard (CSA S406-16). We’ll delve into the technical and performance standards, and discuss the need-to-know details behind site selection, backfilling, PWF floor systems, air and vapour barriers, insulation techniques, crawl spaces, and design requirements for high wind and seismic zones. With a focus on the structural system and building science considerations, this session will cover:

• A brief overview of the history of PWF construction
• The wood preservatives and material requirements for PWF
• The pertinent design and construction aspects of PWF
• The standardization of PWF as per CSA S406
• Some building science considerations for PWF systems

TSA MEMBERS: This event is free for TSA Members using the discount code found in the TSA Bulletin and on your Member Dashboard. Not a member yet? Membership is open to everyone and you can join here (student memberships are free!).

OAA MEMBERS: This lecture is eligible for 1 OAA Structured Learning Hour. When registering, please include your full name as registered with the OAA to ensure your certificate of participation is credited properly. Please also include an email address you check frequently to ensure you receive our certificate in a timely manner.