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EP #134: Concrete vs. Mass Timber – Sorting Fact from Hype
Season 1 Episode 134
Mass timber is often promoted as faster, cheaper, and greener—but does it really hold up against concrete?
In this episode of the Concrete Logic Podcast, we examine where timber actually competes, where it falls short, and what owners and engineers need to know before choosing it over concrete. From speed and aesthetics to fire ratings, insurance, and durability, this conversation exposes the tradeoffs that get lost in the marketing.
What You'll Learn
- What exactly qualifies as mass timber, and why is CLT the dominant product?
- Can timber’s speed of construction outweigh prefabrication challenges?
- Why do acoustics and fire safety force timber to rely on concrete toppings?
- How do insurance and durability concerns stack up against concrete?
- Are sustainability claims for timber real—or just another sales pitch?
- Where does concrete still deliver advantages timber can’t match?
Chapters
00:00 – Introduction to Mass Timber and Concrete
04:38 – Understanding Mass Timber Products
09:00 – Advantages of Mass Timber in Construction
13:40 – Design Considerations and Aesthetics
18:22 – Durability, Maintenance, and Sustainability
22:48 – Cost, Insurance, and Market Trends
Guest Info
Name: Garrett Braun
Email: gbraun@blueneststructural.com
Website: https://www.blueneststructural.com/
Company: Blue Nest Structural
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Support the Podcast
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Support the show while gearing up with KUIU premium outdoor gear—what Seth wears both on the hunt and on the job. Shop through this link at no extra cost: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/KUIU
Want help with media services like podcasting or YouTube for your concrete company? Reach out to Seth at seth@concretelogicpodcast.com.
Credits
Producers: Jodi Tandett and Concrete Logic Media
Music by Mike Dunton: https://www.mdunton.com/
Connectivity
Host: Seth Tandett, Concrete Visionary & Business Development Manager at Baker Construction
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethtandett
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast
Website: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com
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Published on 1 week, 5 days ago