New Zealand Edition

Designing with XLam

Cross Laminated Timber

New Zealand Design Guide Version 2.2

XLam NZ Limited  |  www.xlam.co.nz

Table of Contents

Use of the XLam Design Guide

Application 1
Associated Documents 1
Updates and Version Control 1
Technical Assistance 1
Publication Information 1
Qualification 2
Code Compliance 2
Building Solutions 3
Warranties and Limitations 3

Structural Design
Material Properties 2
Vibration 3
Deflection 4
Span Tables 5
Diaphragms 16
Wall Design 19
Connections 21
AirStair 24

Fire Design
Fire Resistance Ratings 2
Char Behaviour of CLT 3
Fire Rated Joints 3
Fire Penetrations 4
Reaction to Fire 5
Fire Span Tables 6

Acoustic Design
Key Design Principles 2
NZ Building Code Compliance Standards 2
Required Performance Ratings 3
Flanking Sound 4
Acoustic Testing 5
Complying Wall Assemblies 6
Complying Floor/Ceiling Assemblies 10
Component Descriptions 11
 Use of the XLam Design Guide

Use of the XLam Design Guide

Application
The XLam Design Guide is a technical resource for reference by designers and specifiers for XLam Cross
Laminated Timber products. It applies only to products manufactured by XLam NZ Ltd for building construction
projects within New Zealand. The information herein is copyright to XLam, and is not applicable to, and must not
be utilised for substitute products from other manufacturers.

Associated Documents
The XLam Design Guide shall be read in conjunction with information contained on the XLam website and
other technical documents referenced on the website. Where any discrepancy is found between documents,
clarification should be sought from XLam. The document should be read in conjunction with the relevant
New Zealand Standards (including NZS3604:2011), the New Zealand Building Code (NZBC) and any other
applicable standards. When using acceptable solution tables, care should be taken to accurately assess the
weight of the CLT structure.

Updates and Version Control

Each document within the XLam Design Guide is identified with a version number and date of issue. The latest
issue is always on the XLam website.
Access to the XLam Design Guide requires user registration for the purpose of disseminating updates. XLam
will notify registered users of updates by email. It is the user’s responsibility to ensure that the latest version is in
use at all times.

Technical Assistance
CLT is a relatively new technology to New Zealand and many design issues will be unfamiliar to a majority of
consultants and clients. XLam’s technical staff are available to assist with project specific design and
detailing queries, and can draw on experience of over 250 projects delivered to ensure that panels are used
most appropriately and efficiently. Our experience has shown that early consultation with us can lead to a
more efficient and cost-effective outcome for a project.

1

 Use of the XLam Design Guide

Publication Information
While every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication the information and
data contained herein is subject to change without notice. Specifiers should ensure that they are always
working with the most up to date version of the design guide and any clarifications should be sought
from enquiries@xlam.co.nz

Qualification
This design guide has been prepared for use by suitably qualified construction professionals to assist in
the design and specification of XLam panels. Products referred to in this document other than XLam panels
are presented for information purposes only and due regard should be given to the relevant New Zealand
Standards and other manufacturer literature. Advice on overall building design issues including, but not
limited to: stability, loading, temporary stability during construction, fixings, waterproofing, fire engineering,
and overall acoustic performance are not covered by this guide and advice should be sought from suitably
qualified professionals.
It is the responsibility of the user to ensure that the use of this Design Guide is appropriate and to exercise their
own professional judgement when using the document. Full responsibility for the design and compliance with
the New Zealand Building Code and all relevant New Zealand Standards, rests with the design professional
specifying the product. XLam will not accept any liability for the failure of any other elements of the building
which cause a subsequent failure of an XLam product.

Code Compliance
As yet there are no Australian or NZ standards specific to the manufacture and use of CLT. However, CLT is
very similar to Glue Laminated Timber in that it is manufactured from finger jointed, kiln dried timber using glue
lamination under pressure. XLam manufacture complies with adopted standards which govern the design,
preparation, finger jointing, planing, lamination, and verification of XLam CLT products:
AS/NZS 1328: 1998 Glue Laminated Timber Parts 1 & 2
AS/NZS 1491:1996 Finger jointed structural timber.
ISO/TC 165 (Working Draft): Timber Structures – Cross Laminated Timber – Part 1: Component Performance and
Production Requirements

2

 Use of the XLam Design Guide

Building Solutions
Application for an Alternative Solution in NZ is made under Section 33 of the NZ Building Act. An applicant must
satisfy the BCA (Building Consent Authority) that the proposed use of CLT will comply with the performance
requirements of the NZBC. The process is outlined under http://www.dbh.govt.nz/blc-alternative-solutions and
guidance is given under http://www.dbh.govt.nz/establishing-compliance-alternative-solutions. XLam will assist
building approval and building consent applications with detailed evidence to substantiate compliance with
performance requirements of the BCA and NZBC.
Between 2012 and 2015, New Zealand Building Consent Authorities have accepted over 150 Alternative
Solution applications for the use of XLam CLT. None have been declined.

Warranties and Limitations

XLam CLT panels are engineered to perform according to the tables and information presented in this guide
only if they are designed and installed in accordance with this guide. Qualified designers and specifiers are
responsible for exercising professional judgement to assess the use of XLam CLT in each individual project and
ensure that it is used appropriately. Each chapter highlights specific limitations of the information presented and
these should be strictly understood and observed and clarification sought from XLam if required. XLam will not
accept any liability for the failure of any other elements of the building which causes a subsequent failure of an
XLam product.
At XLam we have a strict quality control procedure for our panels with regular testing and monitoring of
products being undertaken continuously. We are regularly audited by Assure Quality to ensure these processes
are being adhered to. Product warranties are available from XLam on request.

3

XLam
New Zealand Structural
Design Guide

This design guide provides key information necessary for the preliminary design of XLam
structures. It covers material properties, design principles, connections, and includes span
tables derived from extensive product testing.

XLam NZ Limited  |  www.xlam.co.nz

Use of this Design Guide

Application
This design guide has been prepared for use by suitably qualified construction professionals to assist in the
design and specification of XLam panels. Products referred to in this document other than XLam panels are
presented for information purposes only and due regard should be given to the relevant New Zealand
Standards and other manufacturer literature. Advice on overall building design issues including, but not limited
to: stability, loading, temporary stability during construction, fixings, waterproofing, fire engineering and overall
acoustic performance are not covered by this guide and advice should be sought from suitably qualified
professionals.

It is the responsibility of the user to ensure that the use of this Design Guide is appropriate and to exercise their
own professional judgement when using the document. Full responsibility for the design and compliance with
the New Zealand Building Code and all relevant New Zealand Standards, rests with the design professional
specifying the product. XLam will not accept any liability for the failure of any other elements of the building
which cause a subsequent failure of an XLam product.

Updates and Version Control

This design guide is identified with a version number and date of issue. The latest issue is always on the XLam
website. Access to the XLam design guides requires user registration for the purpose of disseminating updates.
XLam will notify registered users of updates by email. It is the user’s responsibility to ensure that the latest
version is in use at all times.
Unless otherwise stipulated, the XLam design guides will be provided to registered users in electronic format.
Bound hard copies can be made available by XLam on request.

1
XLam Structural Design Guide

Material Properties
CLT panels gain the majority of their stiffness from
the outer longitudinal laminates. Central transverse
laminates help to hold the structural layers apart,
but do not require the same structural properties.
XLam manufactures panels using a combination
of feedstock for the inner and outer laminations
to optimise the cost-to-performance ratio. XLam
panels are glued together using Purbond HS
polyurethane adhesive.

Material Strength Properties to NZS3603:1993

Structural Property External Laminations, G8 (MPa) Internal Laminations, G6 (MPa)

MOE 8000 6000

Bending Strength, fb 12.0 10.0

Compression parallel, fc 18.0 15.0

Compression perpindicular, fp 8.9 8.9

Tension Strength, ft 6.0 4.0

Nominal Shear, fs 3.8 3.8

Construction Systems
The two common erection methods for CLT In either case, the design of the floor structure is
buildings are platform construction and balloon generally governed by vibration or serviceability
construction. Platform construction has each floor performance requirements.
directly supported by the wall panels below and
the next level walls are supported on top of the
floor. In contrast, balloon construction has the walls
continuous full height of the building with the floors
supported at each level on corbels attached to
the walls. Which construction method is adopted
will depend on the site layout and any transport
restrictions, but typically platform construction
is preferred for its ease of installation and efficient
assembly sequence.

2
Vibration
The low damping ratio and fundamental
natural frequency of vibration require particular
attention to control in-service vibrations in XLam
CLT floors. Humans are more sensitive to low
frequency vibrations.
The fundamental natural frequency depends
upon the specific mass-to-stiffness ratio of the
material, and is difficult to alter without changing the
material properties.
This FPInnovations method is limited to bare CLT
floors without a heavy topping, vibrations induced
by normal walking only, and on well supported and
connected panels.
Vibration Check 2
The natural frequency of the floor should be at least
8Hz as suggested by Eurocode 5.

Damping is dependent on not only the material

properties, but also the construction detailing.
Damping can be improved through smart design.
Any measures for increasing the damping ratio
through design and construction will enhance the
vibration performance of bare CLT floors. f ≥ 8Hz

Three vibration checks have been carried out and

the most conservative span has been adopted Vibration Check 3
for the XLam floor span tables. These vibration
checks are more stringent than those required by The APA method gives the deflection limit for a 1kN
NZS 1170.1:2011. point load at the centre of the span (Engineered
Wood Systems - APA EWS, 2004).
The vibration formulae adopted to derive the
span tables assume that the floor panel has rigid
supports. These vibration limits are recommended
for use when the floor element is contained within
a single occupancy. If the same CLT panel supports L = CLT maximum floor span (m)
the floor over two different tenancies, a more δ = 1kN static point load mid-span deflection for an equivalent
stringent approach should be undertaken. It should simply supported 1.0m wide panel.

also be noted that the expectation for vibration
performance is subjective and can vary greatly from
person to person.
Vibration Check 1
The FPInnovations method uses the effective
stiffness and density of CLT to limit the span. This
method has performed well in verification studies
and laboratory testing (FPInnovations, 2012).
The APA Engineered Wood Systems equation
accounts for all the stiffness contributions from the
two-way action in the CLT floor. The theory is based
on the empirical relationship of a single joist
mid-span deflection and the deflection of a
diaphragm under point loading.

L = CLT maximum floor span (m)

(EI)eff = Effective stiffness for a 1m wide panel (N-m2)
ρ = Density of CLT (kg/m3)
A = Cross sectional area of a 1.0m wide CLT panel (m2)

3
Deflection
The deflection of floor and roof panels has been based on the Shear Analogy Method (FPInnovations, 2012),
which takes into account the additional deflection due to rolling shear deformation in the transverse laminates.
Shorter spans have a higher proportion of rolling shear deformation. Deflection limits have been assessed using
the following criteria:

Floor
Deflection under k2(G+GSDL+0.4Q) < span/400
(or span/200 for cantilevers)
Where G is the self-weight of the CLT panel and GSDL
and Q are as listed in the span tables.
Roof
Deflection under k2 (G+GSDL+ 0.4Q) + Ss < span/300
(or span/200 for cantilevers)
Where G is the self-weight of the CLT panel and
GSDL = 0.2kPa, Q = 0.25 kPa, Ss = 0.48kPa and
1.43kPa for 1kPa and 3kPa ground snow loads,
respectively. A hard deflection limit of 25mm has
also been imposed to derive the roof span tables.

Creep
The composition of CLT with its orthogonal
arrangement of layers makes it more prone to
time-dependent deformations under load than
other engineered wood products. Timber creep
is primarily dependent on changes in moisture
content, the type and duration of the applied load
and the level of stress in the timber. Special attention
must be paid to the duration of load, exposure
conditions during the construction period and to the
service life of the CLT element.
XLam’s span tables assume a long term creep factor
of k2 = 2.0 for Serviceability Limit State deflection
checks with the exception of cantilevers where a
factor of k2 = 3.0 is used.
These creep factors assume the panels remain dry
during service, and that due care is taken to limit
construction moisture.

4
Span Tables

Span Table Notes

• G = Dead load • Unless noted, the span tables assume a uniform
GSDL = Super imposed dead load loading over the panel. No line loads or point
Q = Live load loads have been checked, nor has any account
SS = Servicability snow load been made for penetrations in the panel. Point
loads and penetrations will reduce the allowable
• For the roof span tables, GSDL allows for
spans specified in the tables.
insulation, battens, and a lightweight cladding.
• SS has been based on regions with a ground
snow load of up to a 1kPa and 3kPa.
• Snow loads assume a snow distribution shape
factor of 0.7. No account has been made for the
accumulation of snow on lower roofs abutting
upper walls.
• For “no snow loads” on simply supported spans,
loads are based on the worst case scenario of
G-Ws (up) and k2G+Ws (down).  Where Ws = -1kPa
(up) or +0.30kPa (down) as an estimate for a high
wind zone.
• For “no snow loads” on cantilevered spans, loads
are based on the worst case scenario of G only
on the back span and k2G+Ws (down) on the
cantilever.  Where Ws = -1kPa (up) or +0.30kPa
(down) as an estimate for a high wind zone.
• For cantilevers, the reduction of deflection at
the free end due to the back span is based on
k2(G+GSDL).
• It is assumed that all cantilevers will have
a minimum back span of 1.5 times the
cantilever length (with a minimum back span
of 1m imposed).
• It is assumed that k2 = 2.0 for all cases except for
cantilevers, which applies k2 = 3.0.
• For cantilever floors, a nominal amount of roof
and wall load landing at the end of the cantilever
is assumed. The assumed weights account for
a 2.4m wall at 0.5kPa, and various supported
roof spans, at G = 0.35kPa. No snow or live load
is assumed.

5
Floor Design Tables: 3-Layered Panels

Panel Specification

CL3/60 CL3/75 CL3/85 CL3/105 CL3/115 CL3/125 CL3/135

Layer 1, G8 20mm 20mm 20mm 35mm 35mm 45mm 45mm

Layer 2, G6 20mm 35mm 45mm 35mm 45mm 35mm 45mm

Layer 3, G8 20mm 20mm 20mm 35mm 35mm 45mm 45mm

PANEL SELF WEIGHT 0.30kPa 0.38kPa 0.43kPa 0.53kPa 0.58kPa 0.63kPa 0.68kPa

LIMITING VIBRATION SPAN (m) 2.10 2.51 2.73 3.38 3.61 3.90 4.10

Simply Supported Span

Q = 2.0kPa Q = 3.0kPa Q = 5.0kPa

SDL SDL SDL

0kPa 0.5kPa 1.0kPa 2.0kPa 0kPa 0.5kPa 1.0kPa 2.0kPa 0kPa 0.5kPa 1.0kPa 2.0kPa

CL3/60 2.10 1.98 1.79 1.56 2.02 1.82 1.68 1.49 1.73 1.62 1.52 1.38

CL3/75 2.51 2.36 2.15 1.87 2.42 2.19 2.02 1.79 2.08 1.94 1.83 1.65

CL3/85 2.73 2.60 2.37 2.06 2.66 2.41 2.23 1.97 2.29 2.14 2.01 1.83

CL3/105 3.38 3.31 3.03 2.66 3.38 3.08 2.86 2.55 2.94 2.75 2.60 2.37

CL3/115 3.61 3.55 3.26 2.86 3.61 3.31 3.08 2.74 3.16 2.96 2.80 2.55

CL3/125 3.90 3.90 3.59 3.16 3.90 3.64 3.39 3.04 3.49 3.27 3.10 2.83

CL3/135 4.10 4.10 3.81 3.37 4.10 3.87 3.61 3.23 3.71 3.48 3.30 3.01

Q = Live load
SDL = Super imposed dead load

Refer to the Span Table Notes section of this document for limitations and assumptions used to derive these tables.

6
Continuous Span

Q = 2.0kPa Q = 3.0kPa Q = 5.0kPa

SDL SDL SDL

0kPa 0.5kPa 1.0kPa 2.0kPa 0kPa 0.5kPa 1.0kPa 2.0kPa 0kPa 0.5kPa 1.0kPa 2.0kPa

CL3/60 2.10 2.10 2.10 2.08 2.10 2.10 2.10 1.98 2.10 2.10 2.03 1.83

CL3/75 2.51 2.51 2.51 2.48 2.51 2.51 2.51 2.37 2.51 2.51 2.42 2.19

CL3/85 2.73 2.73 2.73 2.73 2.73 2.73 2.73 2.61 2.73 2.73 2.67 2.41

CL3/105 3.38 3.38 3.38 3.38 3.38 3.38 3.38 3.38 3.38 3.38 3.38 3.15

CL3/115 3.61 3.61 3.61 3.61 3.61 3.61 3.61 3.61 3.61 3.61 3.61 3.38

CL3/125 3.90 3.90 3.90 3.90 3.90 3.90 3.90 3.90 3.90 3.90 3.90 3.77

CL3/135 4.10 4.10 4.10 4.10 4.10 4.10 4.10 4.10 4.10 4.10 4.10 4.00

Q = Live load
SDL = Super imposed dead load

Cantilever Span

Q = 2.0kPa Q = 3.0kPa Q = 5.0kPa

Roof trib width supported Roof trib width supported Roof trib width supported

0m 2m 4m 6m 0m 2m 4m 6m 0m 2m 4m 6m

CL3/60 0.67 0.31 0.27 0.24 0.62 0.30 0.27 0.24 0.55 0.30 0.26 0.24

CL3/75 0.79 0.37 0.32 0.29 0.71 0.36 0.32 0.29 0.62 0.35 0.31 0.28

CL3/85 0.86 0.40 0.36 0.32 0.77 0.40 0.35 0.32 0.65 0.38 0.34 0.31

CL3/105 1.13 0.53 0.47 0.43 1.02 0.52 0.46 0.42 0.87 0.50 0.45 0.41

CL3/115 1.19 0.56 0.49 0.45 1.08 0.55 0.49 0.44 0.92 0.53 0.47 0.43

CL3/125 1.34 0.64 0.56 0.51 1.22 0.62 0.56 0.51 1.05 0.60 0.54 0.49

CL3/135 1.41 0.65 0.58 0.53 1.28 0.64 0.57 0.52 1.10 0.61 0.55 0.51

Q = Live load
SDL = Super imposed dead load

Refer to the Span Table Notes section of this document for limitations and assumptions used to derive these tables.

7
Floor Design Tables: 5-Layered Panels

Panel Specification

CL5/100 CL5/130 CL5/145 CL5/150 CL5/165 CL5/175 CL5/195 CL5/205 CL5/225

Layer 1, G8 20mm 35mm 35mm 45mm 45mm 45mm 45mm 45mm 45mm

Layer 2, G6 20mm 20mm 20mm 20mm 20mm 20mm 35mm 35mm 45mm

Layer 3, G6 20mm 20mm 35mm 20mm 35mm 45mm 35mm 45mm 45mm

Layer 4, G6 20mm 20mm 20mm 20mm 20mm 20mm 35mm 35mm 45mm

Layer 5, G8 20mm 35mm 35mm 45mm 45mm 45mm 45mm 45mm 45mm

PANEL SELF WEIGHT 0.50kPa 0.65kPa 0.73kPa 0.75kPa 0.83kPa 0.88kPa 0.98kPa 1.03kPa 1.13kPa

LIMITING VIBRATION SPAN (m) 3.08 3.93 4.23 4.43 4.73 4.92 5.21 5.38 5.67

Simply Supported Span

Q = 2.0kPa Q = 3.0kPa Q = 5.0kPa

SDL SDL SDL

0kPa 0.5kPa 1.0kPa 2.0kPa 0kPa 0.5kPa 1.0kPa 2.0kPa 0kPa 0.5kPa 1.0kPa 2.0kPa

CL5/100 3.08 2.97 2.72 2.39 3.03 2.76 2.57 2.29 2.64 2.47 2.33 2.13

CL5/130 3.93 3.93 3.63 3.20 3.93 3.68 3.44 3.08 3.53 3.31 3.14 2.87

CL5/145 4.23 4.23 3.98 3.52 4.23 4.03 3.77 3.39 3.87 3.64 3.45 3.17

CL5/150 4.43 4.43 4.19 3.72 4.43 4.25 3.97 3.57 4.08 3.84 3.64 3.34

CL5/165 4.73 4.73 4.54 4.04 4.73 4.60 4.31 3.89 4.42 4.17 3.96 3.64

CL5/175 4.92 4.92 4.77 4.25 4.92 4.83 4.53 4.10 4.64 4.38 4.17 3.84

CL5/195 5.21 5.21 5.10 4.55 5.21 5.17 4.85 4.38 4.97 4.69 4.46 4.10

CL5/205 5.38 5.38 5.30 4.74 5.38 5.37 5.05 4.57 5.17 4.89 4.65 4.28

CL5/225 5.67 5.67 5.64 5.05 5.67 5.67 5.37 4.87 5.50 5.20 4.96 4.57

Q = Live load
SDL = Super imposed dead load

Refer to the Span Table Notes section of this document for limitations and assumptions used to derive these tables.

8
Continuous Span

Q = 2.0kPa Q = 3.0kPa Q = 5.0kPa

SDL SDL SDL

0kPa 0.5kPa 1.0kPa 2.0kPa 0kPa 0.5kPa 1.0kPa 2.0kPa 0kPa 0.5kPa 1.0kPa 2.0kPa

CL5/100 3.08 3.08 3.08 3.08 3.08 3.08 3.08 3.00 3.08 3.08 3.06 2.77

CL5/130 3.93 3.93 3.93 3.93 3.93 3.93 3.93 3.93 3.93 3.93 3.93 3.72

CL5/145 4.23 4.23 4.23 4.23 4.23 4.23 4.23 4.23 4.23 4.23 4.23 4.14

CL5/150 4.43 4.43 4.43 4.43 4.43 4.43 4.43 4.43 4.43 4.43 4.43 4.32

CL5/165 4.73 4.73 4.73 4.73 4.73 4.73 4.73 4.73 4.73 4.73 4.73 4.73

CL5/175 4.92 4.92 4.92 4.92 4.92 4.92 4.92 4.92 4.92 4.92 4.92 4.92

CL5/195 5.21 5.21 5.21 5.21 5.21 5.21 5.21 5.21 5.21 5.21 5.21 5.21

CL5/205 5.38 5.38 5.38 5.38 5.38 5.38 5.38 5.38 5.38 5.38 5.38 5.38

CL5/225 5.67 5.67 5.67 5.67 5.67 5.67 5.67 5.67 5.67 5.67 5.67 5.67

Q = Live load
SDL = Super imposed dead load

Cantilever Span

Q = 2.0kPa Q = 3.0kPa Q = 5.0kPa

Roof trib width supported Roof trib width supported Roof trib width supported

0m 2m 4m 6m 0m 2m 4m 6m 0m 2m 4m 6m

CL5/100 1.02 0.49 0.43 0.39 0.92 0.48 0.42 0.38 0.79 0.46 0.41 0.38

CL5/130 1.36 0.65 0.58 0.52 1.24 0.63 0.57 0.52 1.07 0.61 0.55 0.50

CL5/145 1.50 0.78 0.64 0.59 1.38 0.75 0.63 0.58 1.20 0.69 0.61 0.56

CL5/150 1.57 0.84 0.66 0.61 1.44 0.80 0.65 0.60 1.25 0.73 0.63 0.58

CL5/165 1.72 1.00 0.82 0.67 1.58 0.95 0.79 0.66 1.38 0.87 0.73 0.64

CL5/175 1.81 1.10 0.92 0.77 1.67 1.05 0.89 0.74 1.46 0.96 0.82 0.69

CL5/195 1.87 1.11 0.90 0.71 1.72 1.05 0.86 0.68 1.50 0.95 0.78 0.65

CL5/205 1.95 1.21 1.00 0.82 1.80 1.14 0.96 0.78 1.57 1.04 0.87 0.72

CL5/225 2.05 1.29 1.07 0.87 1.89 1.21 1.02 0.83 1.65 1.09 0.92 0.75

Q = Live load
SDL = Super imposed dead load

Refer to the Span Table Notes section of this document for limitations and assumptions used to derive these tables.

9
Floor Design Tables: 7-Layered Panels

Panel Specification

CL7/245 CL7/265 CL7/275 CL7/295 CL7/315

Layer 1, G8 35mm 45mm 45mm 45mm 45mm

Layer 2, G6 35mm 35mm 35mm 35mm 45mm

Layer 3, G6 35mm 35mm 35mm 45mm 45mm

Layer 4, G6 35mm 35mm 45mm 45mm 45mm

Layer 5, G6 35mm 35mm 35mm 45mm 45mm

Layer 6, G6 35mm 35mm 35mm 35mm 45mm

Layer 7, G8 35mm 45mm 45mm 45mm 45mm

PANEL SELF WEIGHT 1.23kPa 1.33kPa 1.38kPa 1.48kPa 1.58kPa

LIMITING VIBRATION SPAN (m) 6.05 6.59 6.73 7.05 7.28

Simply Supported Span

Q = 2.0kPa Q = 3.0kPa Q = 5.0kPa

SDL SDL SDL

0kPa 0.5kPa 1.0kPa 2.0kPa 0kPa 0.5kPa 1.0kPa 2.0kPa 0kPa 0.5kPa 1.0kPa 2.0kPa

CL7/245 6.05 6.05 5.78 5.19 6.05 5.85 5.52 5.01 5.64 5.35 5.10 4.70

CL7/265 6.59 6.59 6.36 5.72 6.59 6.43 6.07 5.52 6.21 5.89 5.62 5.19

CL7/275 6.73 6.73 6.52 5.88 6.73 6.60 6.23 5.67 6.37 6.05 5.77 5.33

CL7/295 7.05 7.05 6.91 6.25 7.05 6.99 6.62 6.04 6.76 6.42 6.14 5.68

CL7/315 7.28 7.28 7.15 6.48 7.28 7.23 6.85 6.26 7.00 6.66 6.37 5.90

Q = Live load
SDL = Super imposed dead load

Refer to the Span Table Notes section of this document for limitations and assumptions used to derive these tables.

10
Cantilever Span

Q = 2.0kPa Q = 3.0kPa Q = 5.0kPa

Roof trib width supported Roof trib width supported Roof trib width supported

0m 2m 4m 6m 0m 2m 4m 6m 0m 2m 4m 6m

CL7/245 2.05 1.29 1.07 0.87 1.89 1.21 1.02 0.83 1.65 1.09 0.92 0.75

CL7/265 2.25 1.47 1.24 1.02 2.07 1.38 1.17 0.96 1.81 1.24 1.05 0.86

CL7/275 2.29 1.52 1.28 1.05 2.12 1.42 1.20 0.99 1.85 1.27 1.08 0.89

CL7/295 2.45 1.71 1.48 1.27 2.27 1.61 1.40 1.20 1.99 1.44 1.26 1.08

CL7/315 2.51 1.77 1.54 1.32 2.33 1.66 1.45 1.25 2.05 1.49 1.30 1.12

Q = Live load
SDL = Super imposed dead load

Refer to the Span Table Notes section of this document for limitations and assumptions used to derive these tables.

11
Floor Design Tables: TwinSkin Panels

Panel Specification

TS5/200 TS5/250 TS5/300

Layer 1, G8 35mm 35mm 35mm

Layer 2, G8 20mm 20mm 20mm

Layer 3, G8 90x45@400crs 140x45@400crs 190x45@400crs

Layer 4, G8 20mm 20mm 20mm

Layer 5, G8 35mm 35mm 35mm

PANEL SELF WEIGHT 0.59kPa 0.62kPa 0.64kPa

LIMITING VIBRATION SPAN (m) 5.30 6.15 7.00

Simply Supported Span

Q = 2.0kPa Q = 3.0kPa Q = 5.0kPa

SDL SDL SDL

0kPa 0.5kPa 1.0kPa 2.0kPa 0kPa 0.5kPa 1.0kPa 2.0kPa 0kPa 0.5kPa 1.0kPa 2.0kPa

TS5/200 5.30 5.26 4.76 4.08 5.30 4.85 4.45 3.87 4.60 4.25 3.97 3.53

TS5/250 6.15 6.15 5.87 5.09 6.15 5.97 5.52 4.86 5.69 5.29 4.97 4.47

TS5/300 7.00 7.00 6.88 6.00 7.00 6.99 6.48 5.74 6.67 6.23 5.87 5.31

Q = Live load
SDL = Super imposed dead load

Refer to the Span Table Notes section of this document for limitations and assumptions used to derive these tables.

12
Cantilever Span

Q = 2.0kPa Q = 3.0kPa Q = 5.0kPa

Roof trib width supported Roof trib width supported Roof trib width supported

0m 2m 4m 6m 0m 2m 4m 6m 0m 2m 4m 6m

TS5/200 1.86 1.26 1.11 0.99 1.71 1.19 1.06 0.96 1.50 1.09 0.98 0.89

TS5/250 2.29 1.67 1.52 1.39 2.12 1.60 1.46 1.34 1.87 1.47 1.35 1.25

TS5/300 2.68 2.06 1.90 1.76 2.49 1.96 1.82 1.70 2.21 1.80 1.69 1.59

Q = Live load
SDL = Super imposed dead load

Refer to the Span Table Notes section of this document for limitations and assumptions used to derive these tables.

13
Roof Design Tables

Panel Specification – CLT

CL3/75 CL3/85 CL3/105 CL3/115 CL3/125 CL3/135 CL5/130 CL5/145 CL5/150 CL5/165 CL5/175

Layer 1 20mm 20mm 35mm 35mm 45mm 45mm 35mm 35mm 45mm 45mm 45mm

Layer 2 35mm 45mm 35mm 45mm 35mm 45mm 20mm 20mm 20mm 20mm 20mm

Layer 3 20mm 20mm 35mm 35mm 45mm 45mm 20mm 35mm 20mm 35mm 45mm

Layer 4 20mm 20mm 20mm 20mm 20mm

Layer 5 35mm 35mm 45mm 45mm 45mm

PANEL SELF WEIGHT 0.38kPa 0.43kPa 0.53kPa 0.58kPa 0.63kPa 0.68kPa 0.65kPa 0.73kPa 0.75kPa 0.83kPa 0.88kPa

Panel Specification – TwinSkin

TS5/170 TS5/200 TS5/220 TS5/250 TS5/300

Layer 1 20mm 35mm 20mm 35mm 35mm

Layer 2 20mm 20mm 20mm 20mm 20mm

Layer 3 90x45@400crs 90x45@400crs 140x45@400crs 140x45@400crs 190x45@400crs

Layer 4 20mm 20mm 20mm 20mm 20mm

Layer 5 20mm 35mm 20mm 35mm 35mm

PANEL SELF WEIGHT 0.44kPa 0.59kPa 0.47kPa 0.62kPa 0.64kPa

Refer to the Span Table Notes section of this document for limitations and assumptions used to derive these tables.

14
Roof Span Table: CLT (m)

Simply Supported Cantilever

No Snow Load 1kPa Snow Load 3kPa Snow Load No Snow Load 1kPa Snow Load 3kPa Snow Load

CL3/75 3.53 3.38 2.87 1.15 1.14 1.02

CL3/85 3.84 3.69 3.16 1.24 1.23 1.10

CL3/105 4.76 4.59 3.98 1.63 1.55 1.40

CL3/115 5.06 4.90 4.27 1.55 1.63 1.48

CL3/125 5.50 5.33 4.67 1.63 1.79 1.64

CL3/135 5.80 5.63 4.95 1.87 1.87 1.71

CL5/130 5.53 5.36 4.71 1.80 1.80 1.65

CL5/145 5.96 5.79 5.13 1.95 1.95 1.80

CL5/150 6.26 6.08 5.40 2.04 2.04 1.88

CL5/165 6.68 6.51 5.81 2.18 2.18 2.03

CL5/175 6.96 6.79 6.08 2.27 2.27 2.12

Roof Span Table: TwinSkin (m)

Simply Supported Cantilever

No Snow Load 1kPa Snow Load 3kPa Snow Load No Snow Load 1kPa Snow Load 3kPa Snow Load

TS5/170 6.52 6.27 5.35 2.14 2.11 1.87

TS5/200 7.67 7.47 6.46 2.51 2.50 2.24

TS5/220 7.82 7.65 6.58 2.60 2.58 2.30

TS5/250 8.78 8.57 7.74 3.00 3.02 2.73

TS5/300 9.74 9.52 8.63 3.45 3.49 3.17

Refer to the Span Table Notes section of this document for limitations and assumptions used to derive these tables.

15
Diaphragms
Floor and roof diaphragms transfer wind and earthquake loads to the bracing walls and tie all other structural
elements together. Careful attention must be given to their design to guarantee the horizontal load path into the
walls and the stability of vertical load carrying elements.

Diaphragm Design
For rectangular floors with regular geometry as
shown in diagrams (a) and (b), (i.e. no large openings,
re-entrant corners, or concentrated forces) the
girder analogy provides a simple method to analyse
diaphragms. Chords resist tension and compression
forces (T and C, respectively) due to bending, and
the CLT panels resist the shear flow (or unit shear
force, q).
For a uniform load, the tension and compression
forces T and C in the chords are calculated as:
The shear flow, which is resisted by the CLT panels
and their fasteners, has to be transferred to the
chords and collector beams at the diaphragm
supports. Where diaphragm action is required, all
panel edges need to be connected to each other.
For loads applied in the transverse direction, where
continuous panels are supported horizontally at
each end, as shown in diagram (c), the diaphragm
can be analysed as a number of beams acting
in parallel.

w Uniformly distributed load

L Diaphragm span
H Diaphragm depth
M Moment from the uniformly distributed load

The chord forces can be resisted by dedicated

beam elements or by the supporting walls.
All connections must be designed to resist
compression forces (via direct contact) and tension
forces (using metallic fasteners or steel straps). If a
chord is not provided, the tension forces may be
resisted by the panels themselves, but this requires
special design of the tension connections between
the panels.
The shear flow q, defined as the shear force per unit
length, is calculated as:

V Reaction force at the diaphragm supports

16
The three most common diaphragm layouts for CLT floors are shown below.

17
Seismic Design of Diaphragms
For buildings designed to be ductile, NZS
1170.5:2004 requires that diaphragms remain elastic
during a seismic event. This implies that no ductility
or damping from the diaphragm connections
should be used to reduce the seismic demand.
Limited yielding might be allowed in locally highly
stressed areas of the diaphragm, provided that the
connections have some guaranteed ductility.
Rigid or Flexible Diaphragms
In structures with rigid diaphragms, horizontal forces
are distributed in proportion to the relative stiffness
of the bracing walls, whereas for flexible diaphragms
the distribution is in proportion to the tributary area.
Because of the high shear stiffness of CLT, the
large dimensions of panels and the use of over-
strength in design, most CLT diaphragms can be
considered to be rigid. In commercial structures
Advanced Design of Diaphragms
Many structures have floor geometries which
are not regular (because of openings, re-entrant
corners, or concentrated forces) and thus require
a more detailed analysis. Diaphragm irregularities
can change the load paths, creating stress
concentrations which require drag (or strut) beams
or other local reinforcement.
Irregular diaphragms can be analysed by applying
the principles of statics in combination with the
girder analogy, or by using the Equivalent Truss
Method (Moroder et al. 2015). This procedure, similar
to the strut-and-tie method for concrete diaphragms,
allows for determination of the shear flow, the forces
in the fasteners, chords, collectors and drag beams,
and the diaphragm deflection.
References
Moroder D, Smith T, Pampanin S, Buchanan AH. An equivalent truss method for the analysis of timber
diaphragms. Pacific Conference on Earthquake Engineering; Sydney, Australia; 2015.
18
In order to guarantee elastic behaviour of the
diaphragm and to comply with capacity design
principles, the diaphragm demand should be
calculated based on the over-strength of the CLT
bracing walls.
and in buildings with large diaphragm spans or
irregular floor geometries, the classification of rigid
or flexible must be assessed in accordance with
NZS 1170.5:2004. Alternatively, the force demand in
the bracing walls can be conservatively determined
based on the envelope of both a rigid and flexible
diaphragm assumption.
For floors with openings in the middle quarter
of the diaphragm it may be possible to use the
girder analogy with local reinforcement (i.e. tension
connections between panels) without having to carry
out a more detailed analysis.
CLT buildings of three or more storeys are affected
by higher mode effects, which increase the
diaphragm demand. Similarly, structures with varying
wall lengths, non-continuous walls, or structures
with dual load resisting systems (walls and moment
resisting frames) are subject to transfer forces in the
diaphragms. For these cases a specific analysis of
the structure and its diaphragms must be carried out.
Wall Design

Design for Ductility

The light weight and high shear resistance of CLT
panels enable CLT buildings to be designed for
excellent resistance to earthquakes. As with other
materials in moderate or high seismic regions, it is
essential to carry out “capacity design” to ensure
that the brittle elements of the structure are never
loaded to their full capacity, and that inelastic
deformations occur in selected ductile elements; the
weak links in the overall structure.
For CLT structures, it is essential to design the
connections between panels as the ductile weak
links. A hierarchy of strength can be applied
between the various connections to ensure that the
desired failure mechanism is achieved. Diaphragm
capacity must also be checked to ensure the load
can be sufficiently distributed to the lateral load
resisting system.
Ductility in the connections comes from ductile
behaviour of the fasteners themselves, which
are the nails, screws or rivets used to connect
the CLT panels together. These fasteners have a
reasonable level of ductility, but their capacity can
drop suddenly after the individual fasteners fail
and crushing of wood occurs behind the individual
fasteners during cyclic loading. This results in a very
pinched hysteresis loop. Design for a higher level of
ductility may be possible with ductile yielding of
specialised hold-downs rather than relying on
yielding of the nail or screw fixings. However, until
further testing is carried out, it is suggested the
designer uses conventional connection details
which have been well tested for ductility (e.g. nails,
dowels or riverts).
Depending on the support conditions and location
of the wall, the reduction on axial capacity can
be significant with combined axial and bending
actions. The axial capacity span tables apply an
accidential eccentricity of 10% of the wall thickness.
Although the capacity tables provide guidance, CLT
wall structures must be subject to specific
engineering design.

19
Wall Capacity Table

Wall Capacity Tables, ØNc (kN/m)

Height (m)

2.4m 3.0m 3.6m

CL3/60 68 47 5

CL3/75 110 79 59

CL3/85 139 102 77

CL3/105 259 197 151

CL3/115 298 234 184

CL3/125 378 300 237

CL3/135 416 343 277

CL5/100 190 141 107

CL5/130 374 299 238

CL5/145 446 368 297

CL5/150 500 422 344

CL5/165 576 499 416

CL5/175 626 550 466

CL5/195 639 586 521

CL5/205 682 630 565

CL5/225 708 668 616

CL7/245 779 740 687

CL7/265 919 883 832

CL7/275 927 896 851

CL7/295 940 916 879

CL7/315 1029 1006 970

20
Connections

Screw Connections
The capacity of screw connections is calculated The appropriate European Technical Approval (ETA)
using the European Yield Method (EYM) in documentation specific to each screw supplier shall
Eurocode 5. The EYM considers a number of be used to determine the specific characteristic
different failure mechanisms based on the shear strengths. The capacity of each specific screw may
capacity of the timber and the yield strength of vary slightly from each screw supplier. Higher shear
the fastener. capacities can be achieved using steel to timber
Generally, self-tapping wood screws are connections, timber in double shear, or greater
recommended for connecting CLT floor and wall embedment depths.
elements together. The screws come in a variety
of lengths and diameters either fully threaded, or
partially threaded, and do not require pre-drilling.
Provided no thread extends beyond the receiving
panel, partially threaded screws are able to pull
the panels tight together, but fully threaded screws
provide greater shear and withdrawal capacities.
If fully threaded screws are required for additional
strength, it is recommended that panels be firstly
pulled tight together using partially threaded screws.

Panel to Panel Connections

Solid CLT panels are typically fixed together with
a half lap joint connection. The screw spacing at
the joint should be specified to resist the shear
flow between panels to achieve diaphragm action.
It is recommended that partially threaded screws
are specified to ensure the panels are pulled
tight together during site assembly. The half lap joint
can resist transverse loading but is not considered
to be a moment-resisting connection.

21
TwinSkin panels 200mm thick (or less) are also will govern the diaphragm design for the floor and
fixed together with a lap joint connection. TwinSkin should be specified to resist the required shear
panels greater than 200mm thick are fixed with flow between panels.
screws along both sides of a plywood spline
rebated into abutting panels. As with the typical
lap joint detail, the screw spacing along the spline

Wall and Floor Fixings

Wall-to-wall fixings and floor-to-wall fixings can also be efficiently achieved using engineered wood screws.
However, the capacity of screws on the narrow edge is less than in the face grain orientation. Again it is
recommended that partially threaded screws are specified to help pull the panels tight together.

22
Edge Distances
While the yielding failure mode of the fastener is
a dominant failure mechanism, there is potential
for brittle block tear-out failure, or tensile splitting
of the timber. Care must be taken when specifying
minimum edge distances of the fasteners. The
following recommended edge distances are as
specified in the Spax European Technical Approval
(ETA - 12/0114) and are presented in this doccument
for guidance only. Self tapping screws of the
same length and diameter from different suppliers
may have different capacities and edge distance
requirements. Reference must be made to the ETA
specific to each supplier.

Screw Edge Distance Requirements

Face Grain On Edge

Minimum panel thickness tmin = 10d tmin = 10d

Spacing a1 parallel to grain a1 = 4d a1 = 10d

Spacing a2 perpendicular to grain a2 = 2.5d a2 = 4d

Distance a3,c to unloaded end grain a3,c = 6d a3,c = 7d

Distance a3,t to loaded end grain a3,t = 6d a3,t = 12d

Distance a4,c to unloaded edge a4,c = 2.5d a4,c = 3d

Distance a4,t to loaded edge a4,t = 6d a4,t = 6d

23
AirStair
The design of the AirStair follows a similar
methodology to floor panels, with the exception that
no long term live load is expected for stairs. The
formula for deflection therefore becomes:
k2(G) + 0.7Q < span/400
Where G is the self-weight of the AirStair panel,
including the mass of the treads.
The vibration checks are the same as outlined
in the floor design section of this doccument.
No superimposed dead load is assumed for the
stair units.
Connection details shown are suitable for single
occupancy residential dwellings only. Connection
details for stairs in multistory commercial or
residential structures must take into account
requirements for sliding, inter-storey drift, and
construction tolerance.

AirStair Typical Connection Details

The shear capacity of the AirStair lap joint must be checked against gravity load demands

AirStair Span Table

Throat thickness (mm) 2kPa RESIDENTIAL 4kPa COMMERCIAL

CL3/75 2.42 2.11

CL3/85 2.66 2.33

CL3/105 3.38 2.98

CL3/115 3.62 3.21

CL3/125 3.90 3.54

CL3/135 4.10 3.76

CL5/130 3.90 3.58

CL5/145 4.20 3.92

CL5/150 4.40 4.13

CL5/165 4.70 4.48

CL5/175 4.90 4.70

24
Acknowledgements
XLam would like to express special thanks to the following organisations and individuals who have contributed
their professional skills and experience to the preparation of material contained in this design guide.
Engco Consulting Engineers for applying their specialist expertise and experience in the design of Cross
Laminated Timber structures and for developing the XLam span tables.
PTL Structural Timber Consultants for their ongoing support and review of the structural engineering
information, especially concerning the literature for lateral load design.

User Feedback
Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) is relatively new to Australasia. Building with XLam CLT brings many benefits to
the construction market. The overriding aim of this design guide is to make an easy pathway for designers. Its
success is best judged by you as users. XLam welcomes all user feedback for future improvements.

25
XLam
New Zealand Fire
Design Guide

This design guide explains the application of fire resistant ratings and the performance
of XLam CLT in fire, including guidance on construction details and compliant fire rated
assemblies. Fire span tables for protected and unprotected floors and walls are given.

XLam NZ Limited  |  www.xlam.co.nz

 Fire Design Guide

Use of this Design Guide

Application
This design guide has been prepared for use by suitably qualified construction professionals to assist in the
design and specification of XLam panels. Products referred to in this document other than XLam panels are
presented for information purposes only and due regard should be given to the relevant New Zealand
Standards and other manufacturer literature. Advice on overall building design issues including, but not limited
to: stability, loading, temporary stability during construction, fixings, waterproofing, fire engineering and overall
acoustic performance are not covered by this guide and advice should be sought from suitably qualified
professionals.

It is the responsibility of the user to ensure that the use of this Design Guide is appropriate and to exercise
their own professional judgement when using the document. Full responsibility for the design and compliance
with the New Zealand Building Code and all relevant New Zealand Standards, rests with the design
professional specifying the product. XLam will not accept any liability for the failure of any other elements of
the building which cause a subsequent failure of an XLam product.

Updates and Version Control

This design guide is identified with a version number and date of issue. The latest issue is always on the XLam
website. Access to the XLam design guides requires user registration for the purpose of disseminating updates.
XLam will notify registered users of updates by email. It is the user’s responsibility to ensure that the latest
version is in use at all times.
Unless otherwise stipulated, the XLam design guides will be provided to registered users in electronic format.
Bound hard copies can be made available by XLam on request.

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New Zealand Edition | May 2017
 Fire Design Guide

Fire Design

Fire Resistance Ratings

The New Zealand Building Code requires structures
to be designed for both protection of property and
means of escape. For fire design, building elements
are required to have a specific fire resistance rating,
and in some locations interior surface finishes may
be restricted.
The fire resistance rating (FRR) refers to the fire
exposure time during which a building assembly or
element can prevent structural collapse or perform
as a barrier to prevent the fire spreading. FRR is
expressed as the resistance period (in minutes) for
three separate criteria; structural adequacy, integrity,
and insulation.
• Structural adequacy refers to the ability of the
Because CLT generally forms the load-bearing
element to maintain its stability and loadbearing
structure, panels are often required to meet all
capacity for the stated resistance period. The
structural adequacy of an element is assessed three FRR criteria. The fire rating performance of
based on its strength capacity to resist the post CLT is one of its greatest attributes and panels
fire design loads (G + ΨιQ). All wall elements often provide the required fire rating without any
must also support a post fire face loading. additional protective linings.
• Integrity refers to the ability of the element to
resist the passage of flames and hot gases. For
the stated period, the assembly must prevent
a cotton pad igniting when applied to the un-
exposed side of the element.
• Insulation refers to the ability of the element to
maintain a temperature below a specified limit on
the un-exposed surface. Over the stated period
the assembly must prevent the temperature on
the unexposed surface from rising above 180°C
at any one location, or an average of 140°C
measured at a number of locations.
As an example, FRR 30/90/60 means that the
element must achieve structural adequacy for 30
minutes, integrity for 90 minutes and insulation for
60 minutes. If the FRR contains a “-”, then this criteria
does not need to be achieved. For example, for a
non-loadbearing fire door the element could require
a FRR of -/60/- meaning that it only needs to achieve
integrity performance for 60 minutes.

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New Zealand Edition | May 2017
 Fire Design Guide

Char Behaviour of CLT

Solid timber chars at a constant rate. The char rate
of radiata pine is accepted as 0.65mm per minute.
As the fire is fuelled, the temperature increases, but
the growing char layer also increases the thermal
insulation. The protected uncharred timber retains
its load bearing capacity.
For XLam CLT the char rate is altered to allow for
glue-line failure above 180 degrees Celsius and for
a zero strength/stiffness heated zone protruding
from the char front. Fire rated plaster boards can be
applied to the face of the panel to further increase
the fire rating capacity. Full scale testing has been
carried out on both protected and unprotected CLT
panels under loaded conditions. This testing has
verified complex step-wise equations which form the
basis of the XLam fire span tables.

Sample cut from an unlined XLam intermediate floor/ceiling, still structurally intact after total building burnout and collapse.

Fire Rated Joints

Correct detailing of joints between panels and at
wall/floor junctions is necessary to maintain integrity
and insulation performance. Panel joints shall be
screw fixed together using partially-threaded
screws to ensure the joint is pulled tight on site. At
lap joints, the screw shall be sufficiently embedded
into the adjacent lap, but only remains effective
outside of the char zone. If the panels are
unprotected, a fire rated sealant is recommended
within the joint to maintain integrity.
At junctions between different materials and where
construction tolerance is required, fire sealants
or ceramic fibre blankets are required to maintain
integrity and insulation performance at the joint.

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 Fire Design Guide

Fire Penetrations
Penetrations through fire rated wall or floor XLam panels have been subjected to full scale fire
assemblies require fire stops to maintain the integrity penetration testing in accordance with AS 1530.4.
and insulation ratings of the building element. A summary of the results is provided below.

Penetration Service Pipe diameter (mm) Core hole size (mm) Exposed side protection Unexposed side protection FRR

uPVC pipe 100 120 Promaseal FC 100 Promaseal A Acrylic Sealant -/60/60

uPVC pipe 40 60 Promaseal FC 40 Promaseal A Acrylic Sealant -/60/60

PPR/PPR-GF/PPR pipe 20 25 Promaseal CFC Promaseal A Acrylic Sealant -/60/60

PPR/PPR-GF/PPR pipe 25 30 Promaseal CFC Promaseal A Acrylic Sealant -/60/60

uPVC pipe 65 85 Promaseal FC 65 Promaseal A Acrylic Sealant -/60/60

Cables - 35 Promaseal A Acrylic Sealant Promaseal A Acrylic Sealant -/60/60

Further fire penetrations are currently being tested and assessments based on these tests will be made available once completed. Fire
stopping around penetrations is an important issue to consider during the design process to ensure correct certification can be made
available for consenting. Please contact XLam to discuss specific requirements.

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New Zealand Edition | May 2017
 Fire Design Guide

Reaction to Fire
To ensure occupants can safely escape the building
in the event of fire, the NZ building code imposes
limitations on the use of lining materials which
are conducive to flame spread. Limitations are
expressed as Group numbers. Group numbers scale
from 1 (good) to 4 (bad) which are related to the time
it takes for the test room fire cell to reach flashover
(the point where there is near-simultaneous ignition
of all combustible materials). The lower the Group
number, the greater the time the test room takes to
reach flashover, which corresponds with a longer
escape time.
Time to Flashover (TFO) < 2minutes Group 4
2minutes < TFO < 10minutes Group 3 denser than 400kg/m3 will achieve a Group 3 performance
10minutes < TFO < 20minutes Group 2
TFO > 20minutes Group 1
In some locations which are not protected by
sprinklers there are also requirements to limit
Group numbers are derived from small cone
colorimeter testing (ISO 5660) or from larger room
corner testing (ISO 9705). The Euroclass system can
also be used as per MBIE technical guidance.
XLam CLT achieves Group number 3 without any
additional protection (MBIE C/VM2, Appendix A,
Table A1 refers). Where Group 1 or Group 2 ratings
are required, CLT panels will need to be lined
or painted with an intumescent paint system.
Intumescent paints are available as clear or
pigmented systems and can be water-based with
low VOC emissions.
Table A1 of C-VM2 states that solid wood or wood products
without any additional protective linings. Paint coating systems
less than 0.4mm thick can be applied to the surface without
compromising the Group number. XLam CLT has a typical
density of 480kg/m3 at 12% moisture content.

the development of smoke, in which case the

Group number is appended with an “s”. A general
indication of different Group number requirements is
provided in the table below.

Exit ways Walls Ceilings

Group Number Ratings
Unsprinklered Sprinklered Unsprinklered Sprinklered Unsprinklered Sprinklered

Sleeping (non-institutional) 1S 2 2S 3 2S 2

Care or detention - sleeping spaces 1S 2 1S 2 1S 2

Care or detention - non-sleeping spaces 1S 2 3 3 3 3

Education 1S 2 2S 3 2S 2

Offices 1S 2 3 3 3 3

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 Fire Design Guide

Fire Span Tables

The XLam fire capacity tables are based on
reference to various full scale tests of loaded floors
and walls, either protected by plasterboard linings,
or unprotected. The span tables are therefore based
not only on theoretical material properties but also
on the tested performance of XLam CLT under load
and subjected to a char-reduced cross section. The
span tables relate to protected and unprotected
panels as defined by the assembly diagrams shown
below and the accompanying table of materials.

Fire rated sealant is required if the panels

are unprotected.

Diagram Reference Number Material Specification

1 XLam CLT panel

2 Internal linings (non-fire rated)

3 16mm fire rated plasterboard

4 Non-combustible cavity insulation

5 Partially threaded screw (or fully threaded screw if used in conjunction with partially threaded)

6 Fire rated sealant. Two 5mm beads applied 50mm apart.

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 Fire Design Guide

30/30/30 Fire Span Tables for Unprotected Floors (Single Span)

Q = 2.0kPa Q = 3.0kPa Q = 5.0kPa

SDL SDL SDL

Panel Spec Laminations 0.5kPa 1.0kPa 2.0kPa 0.5kPa 1.0kPa 2.0kPa 0.5kPa 1.0kPa 2.0kPa

CL3/105 35/35/35 3.20 2.90 2.55 2.95 2.75 2.45 2.35 2.25 2.10

CL3/115 35/45/35 3.40 3.15 2.75 3.20 2.95 2.65 2.55 2.45 2.25

CL3/125 45/35/45 3.75 3.45 3.05 3.50 3.25 2.90 2.80 2.70 2.50

CL3/135 45/45/45 4.00 3.65 3.25 3.70 3.45 3.10 3.00 2.85 2.65

CL5/130 35/20/20/20/35 3.80 3.50 3.10 3.55 3.35 3.00 2.90 2.75 2.55

CL5/145 35/20/35/20/35 4.20 3.85 3.45 3.90 3.65 3.30 3.20 3.05 2.85

CL5/150 45/20/20/20/45 4.40 4.05 3.60 4.10 3.85 3.45 3.35 3.20 3.00

CL5/165 45/20/35/20/45 4.73 4.40 3.90 4.45 4.20 3.75 3.65 3.55 3.30

CL5/175 45/20/45/20/45 4.92 4.65 4.15 4.70 4.40 4.00 3.90 3.75 3.50

CL5/195 45/35/35/35/45 5.21 4.95 4.40 5.00 4.70 4.25 4.15 3.95 3.70

CL5/205 45/35/45/35/45 5.38 5.15 4.60 5.20 4.90 4.45 4.30 4.15 3.85

CL5/225 45/45/45/45/45 5.67 5.45 4.90 5.55 5.20 4.70 4.60 4.45 4.15

Q = Live load
SDL = Super imposed dead load

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 Fire Design Guide

60/60/60 Fire Span Tables for Unprotected Floors (Single Span)

Q = 2.0kPa Q = 3.0kPa Q = 5.0kPa

SDL SDL SDL

Panel Spec Laminations 0.5kPa 1.0kPa 2.0kPa 0.5kPa 1.0kPa 2.0kPa 0.5kPa 1.0kPa 2.0kPa

CL3/105 35/35/35 3.10 2.75 2.25 2.80 2.50 2.15 2.40 2.20 1.95

CL3/115 35/45/35 3.20 2.85 2.35 2.90 2.65 2.25 2.50 2.30 2.00

CL3/125 45/35/45 3.75 3.45 2.90 3.50 3.20 2.75 2.80 2.70 2.50

CL3/135 45/45/45 4.00 3.60 3.00 3.70 3.35 2.85 3.00 2.85 2.60

CL5/130 35/20/20/20/35 3.80 3.50 3.10 3.55 3.35 3.00 2.90 2.75 2.55

CL5/145 35/20/35/20/35 4.20 3.85 3.45 3.90 3.65 3.30 3.20 3.05 2.85

CL5/150 45/20/20/20/45 4.40 4.05 3.60 4.10 3.85 3.45 3.35 3.20 3.00

CL5/165 45/20/35/20/45 4.73 4.40 3.90 4.45 4.20 3.75 3.65 3.55 3.30

CL5/175 45/20/45/20/45 4.92 4.65 4.15 4.70 4.40 4.00 3.90 3.75 3.50

CL5/195 45/35/35/35/45 5.21 4.95 4.40 5.00 4.70 4.25 4.15 3.95 3.70

CL5/205 45/35/45/35/45 5.38 5.15 4.60 5.20 4.90 4.45 4.30 4.15 3.85

CL5/225 45/45/45/45/45 5.67 5.45 4.90 5.55 5.20 4.70 4.60 4.45 4.15

Q = Live load
SDL = Super imposed dead load

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 Fire Design Guide

90/90/90 Fire Span Tables for Unprotected Floors (Single Span)

Q = 2.0kPa Q = 3.0kPa Q = 5.0kPa

SDL SDL SDL

Panel Spec Laminations 0.5kPa 1.0kPa 2.0kPa 0.5kPa 1.0kPa 2.0kPa 0.5kPa 1.0kPa 2.0kPa

CL3/105 35/35/35 - - - - - - - - -

CL3/115 35/45/35 - - - - - - - - -

CL3/125 45/35/45 - - - - - - - - -

CL3/135 45/45/45 - - - - - - - - -

CL5/130 35/20/20/20/35 - - - - - - - - -

CL5/145 35/20/35/20/35 - - - - - - - - -

CL5/150 45/20/20/20/45 - - - - - - - - -

CL5/165 45/20/35/20/45 4.73 4.40 3.90 4.45 4.20 3.75 3.65 3.55 3.30

CL5/175 45/20/45/20/45 4.92 4.65 4.15 4.70 4.40 4.00 3.90 3.75 3.50

CL5/195 45/35/35/35/45 5.21 4.95 4.40 5.00 4.70 4.25 4.15 3.95 3.70

CL5/205 45/35/45/35/45 5.38 5.15 4.60 5.20 4.90 4.45 4.30 4.15 3.85

CL5/225 45/45/45/45/45 5.67 5.45 4.90 5.55 5.20 4.70 4.60 4.45 4.15

Q = Live load
SDL = Super imposed dead load

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 Fire Design Guide

Fire Span Tables for Walls

Fire Load Axial Capacity, ØNcf (kN/m)

Wall Lining Each Side

Unprotected Protected Fire Resistance

Height (m) Rating (FRR)

2.75 3.00 3.50 2.75 3.00 3.50

CL3/105 188 175 150

CL3/115 220 210 185

CL3/125 355 340 305

Ambient Ambient Ambient 30/30/30
CL3/135 385 375 350
Capacity Capacity Capacity (30minutes)
CL5/130 320 310 280

CL5/145 420 410 380

CL5/150 510 505 480

CL3/105 35 29 23 220 210 194

CL3/115 34 29 24 255 250 238

CL3/125 47 44 38 360 355 340

60/60/60
CL3/135 48 45 39 400 400 390
(60minutes)
CL5/130 53 49 42 355 350 335

CL5/145 123 116 103 450 450 435

CL5/150 160 155 138 530 520 510

CL3/105 - - - 58 57 55

CL3/115 - - - 74 74 72

CL3/125 - - - 111 111 110

90/90/90
CL3/135 - - - 132 133 135
(90minutes)
CL5/130 - - - 108 109 107

CL5/145 - - - 146 147 145

CL5/150 - - - 182 182 185

Ambient versus fire capacites

Ambient capacities are based on Ø = 0.8 and k1 = 0.6

Fire capacities are based on Ø = 1.0 and k1 = 1.0

In some circumstances, fire capacities can be higher than ambient structural capacities. It is important that fire loads are checked
against the fire capacity, and ambient loads are checked against the nominal capacity.

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 Fire Design Guide

Acknowledgements
XLam would like to express special thanks to the following organisations and individuals who have contributed
their professional skills and experience to the preparation of material contained in this design guide:
The Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment (MBIE) for providing peer review of the literature contained
in this Fire Design Guide, especially concerning the reaction to fire and material Group Numbers.

User Feedback
Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) is relatively new to Australasia. Building with XLam CLT brings many benefits to
the construction market. The overriding aim of this design guide is to make an easy pathway for designers. Its
success is best judged by you as users. XLam welcomes all user feedback for future improvements.

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New Zealand Edition | May 2017
XLam
New Zealand Acoustic
Design Guide

This Acoustic Design Guide explains the principles of sound transmission between habitable
spaces in buildings and how the required standards of insulation can be achieved in XLam
construction. Specific wall and floor assemblies are based on extensive laboratory testing
of XLam panels.

XLam NZ Limited  |  www.xlam.co.nz

 Acoustic Design Guide

Use of this Design Guide

Application
This design guide has been prepared for use by suitably qualified construction professionals to assist in the
design and specification of XLam panels. Products referred to in this document other than XLam panels are
presented for information purposes only and due regard should be given to the relevant New Zealand
Standards and other manufacturer literature. Advice on overall building design issues including, but not limited
to: stability, loading, temporary stability during construction, fixings, waterproofing, fire engineering and overall
acoustic performance are not covered by this guide and advice should be sought from suitably qualified
professionals.

It is the responsibility of the user to ensure that the use of this Design Guide is appropriate and to exercise
their own professional judgement when using the document. Full responsibility for the design and compliance
with the New Zealand Building Code and all relevant New Zealand Standards, rests with the design
professional specifying the product. XLam will not accept any liability for the failure of any other elements of
the building which cause a subsequent failure of an XLam product.

Updates and Version Control

This design guide is identified with a version number and date of issue. The latest issue is always on the XLam
website. Access to the XLam design guides requires user registration for the purpose of disseminating updates.
XLam will notify registered users of updates by email. It is the user’s responsibility to ensure that the latest
version is in use at all times.
Unless otherwise stipulated, the XLam design guides will be provided to registered users in electronic format.
Bound hard copies can be made available by XLam on request.

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 Acoustic Design Guide

Acoustic Design

Key Design Principles

The sound insulation of CLT building elements relies There are significant inter-dependencies between
on appropriate design and construction detailing. fire and acoustic solutions which require them to be
Compliant ratings can be effectively achieved by considered together at an early stage.
XLam wall and floor assemblies incorporating mass
(CLT plus linings and overlays), de-coupled structure,
resilient layers, air gaps, and absorbent insulation
within cavities.
Designers must also detail construction to avoid
‘flanking’ sound transmission via alternative paths
e.g. through air gaps, services ducts or adjoining
elements which are common to two tenancies.

NZ Building Code Compliance Standards

Application of Standards
NZBC Clause G6: Airborne and Impact Sound,
sets standards for building elements which prevent
undue noise transmission to habitable spaces
of household units from other occupancies or
common spaces.
Building elements include structural and
non-structural components such as fixtures, services,
drains, permanent mechanical installations for
access, glazing, partitions, ceilings,
and temporary supports.
Habitable spaces are those used for activities
normally associated with domestic living but
exclude bathrooms, laundries, water closets,
pantries, walk-in wardrobes, corridors, hallways,
lobbies, clothes-drying rooms, or other spaces not
occupied frequently or for extended periods.
Household units refer to any building, or part of a
building, used solely or principally for residential
purposes, and occupied exclusively by one
household. Excluded from this are single family
homes, hostels, boarding houses, and specialised
accommodation such as aged care.
There are two sources for perceptible sound
transmission through a wall or floor:
• Airborne sound such as speech and music
• Impact sound created through direct contact
with the building structure, such as footsteps and
door slams
Airborne and impact sound transmission through
building elements are designated by separate
decibel (dB) ratings.

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 Acoustic Design Guide

Required Performance Ratings

STC Rating
A Sound Transmission Class (STC) number rating provides an estimate in decibels of the airborne sound
transmission loss performance of a wall or intermediate floor partition in common sound insulation situations.
Airborne sound insulation (STC rating) is the difference in sound pressure between opposite sides of a building
element. The higher the STC rating, the better the performance. The minimum NZ code-prescribed value
is 55dB.

IIC Rating
Structure-borne sound transmission loss is defined by an Impact Insulation Class (IIC), derived from measuring
impact sound pressure levels through use of a tapping machine. The IIC provides a rating in decibels of the
impact sound insulating performance of a floor-ceiling assembly. The higher the IIC rating, the better the
performance. The minimum NZ code-prescribed value is 55dB.

Field Test Performance Ratings

STC and IIC measured on site are called Field Sound Transmission Class (FSTC) and Field Impact
Insulation Class (FIIC). Field tests for both STC and IIC must be within 5dB of the theoretical
performance requirements.

NZBC Acceptable Solution

Acceptable Solution G6/AS1 1.01 requires that sound
transmission through building elements shall be
minimised by using one or more of the following
construction techniques:
a) Physical separation of building elements
comprising each face of any wall, floor or ceiling
assembly which is common to two or more
occupied spaces.
b) Use of noise control building elements.
c) Avoidance of rigid service connections (e.g. in
plumbing) where the reticulation passes through
noise control building elements separating
different occupancies.
d) Making the noise control installation airtight by
sealing all joints between building elements, and
around penetrations and service fittings.
Additional guidance notes include:
• Common walls should not be used for mounting
fixtures and appliances which are likely to be
a source of noise, e.g. telephones, TV sets,
stereos, cupboards with doors, service switches.
• Where the location of services in common walls
and ceilings is unavoidable, they may require
additional airborne and impact sound insulation
in order that the building element achieves the
required performance.
• Airtightness of common partition elements is
important, as an unsealed air space can in some
circumstances amplify, rather than reduce sound.

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 Acoustic Design Guide

Flanking Sound
Sound transmission between two spaces in a Flanking transmission can be minimised by careful
building occurs not only through the separating floor consideration of design and construction details. As
and wall assemblies but also through the flanking a general principle, it is wise to target a higher than
building elements adjoining them at their edges code requirement for sound ratings to compensate
(flanking transmission). The separating assembly and for potential flanking effects.
flanking elements are excited in the source space
and transmit vibrations into the recieving space via
coupled building elements.
Simply specifying a high-performance wall or
floor assembly will therefore not guarantee a
high acoustic performance. Flanking paths at the
junctions therefore have to be taken into account in
estimating the apparent sound insulation.

Sound Sealants
Any air gaps in and around building elements are easy sound paths. An acoustic sealant such as Gib Soundseal
should be used to fill all edge gaps between building components and cracks or voids around openings
and penetrations.

Building Services
Flanking sound may find transmission pathways
through assemblies such as electrical switches,
light fittings, and plumbing systems. For this reason,
building services should be avoided in dividing walls
between habitable spaces. Acoustic ratings can be
lower for non-habitable spaces such as bathrooms
and laundries, however building services should still
be given special acoustic consideration.

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Acoustic Testing
Applicability to XLam CLT
The rapidly increasing demand for CLT within
New Zealand highlighted the need for a
comprehensive acoustic research program which
adopted testing methodology specific to meeting
the NZ Building Code requirements.
In 2016 the Timber Development Association,
in conjunction with Forest and Wood Products
Association of Australia, commissioned PKA
Acoustic Consulting to complete a total of 107
separate airborne/impact tests on 66 different CLT
Deviations from Tested Assemblies
The STC and IIC ratings given in this chapter
were derived using the materials shown in the
acoustic assembly diagrams and detailed in the
accompanying component descriptions. Any
assembly deviations or material substitutions
5
Acoustic Design Guide
wall and floor applications, both as bare panels and
in combination with various lining and insulation
systems. Testing was carried out at the University
of Auckland Acoustic Laboratory, using XLam CLT
panels supplied from the XLam NZ plant in Nelson.
The test results, together with other project-based
reporting commissioned by XLam from Arup and
Marshall Day, substantiate the acoustic predictions
included within this design guide.
may affect the acoustic performance. Some
variations may be required to meet non-acoustic
considerations. Advice should be sought from a
qualified acoustic consultant.
New Zealand Edition | May 2017

Complying Test Assemblies
Examples of tested assemblies are given in the
following sections. All these assemblies were
shown to meet and exceed the NZBC minimum
STC 55dB and IIC 55dB ratings prescribed for
dividing elements between habitable spaces of
household units.
Complying Wall Assemblies
Configuration NZT1617-38
Configuration NZT1617-92
Variation 1
Acoustic Design Guide
Sound insulation is the same regardless of which
is the source side. Full reports for these and other
tested acoustic assemblies can be made available
by XLam on request.
Components A to B STC
105mm XLam CLT panel
16mm Gib Fyreline plasterboard
50mm glasswool insulation
55
Rondo STWC resilient mount
28mm Rondo 129 furring channel
2x 13mm Gib Standard plasterboard
Components A to B STC
13mm Gib standard plasterboard
70 x 45mm timber studs
75mm glasswool insulation
20mm gap (90mm total cavity)
105mm XLam CLT panel 58
28mm Rondo 129 furring channel
30mm Rondo BetaGrip clip
50mm glasswool insulation
13mm Gib Standard plasterboard
Add 1 layer 13mm Gib Standard plasterboard to side A 63
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 Acoustic Design Guide

Configuration NZT1617-44 Components A to B STC

2x 13mm Gib Standard plasterboard

64mm Rondo steel studs
75mm glasswool insulation 56
20mm gap (84mm total cavity)
105mm XLam CLT panel

Variation 1 Change 64mm Rondo steel studs for 75x45mm timber studs 55

Configuration NZT1617-91 Components A to B STC

13mm Gib Standard plasterboard

70 x 45mm timber studs
75mm glasswool insulation
20mm gap (90mm total cavity)
105mm XLam CLT panel 62
20mm gap (90mm total cavity)
75mm glasswool insulation
70 x 45mm timber studs
13mm Gib standard plasterboard

Variation 1 Add 1 layer 13mm Gib Standard plasterboard to one side 65

Variation 2 Add 1 layer 13mm Gib Standard plasterboard to both sides 66

Add 1 layer 13mm Gib Standard plasterboard to one side.

Variation 3 58
Remove 75mm glasswool insulation from one side

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 Acoustic Design Guide

Configuration NZT1617-96 Components A to B STC

105mm XLam CLT panel

20mm gap
55
50mm glasswool insulation (compressed into 20mm gap)
105mm XLam CLT panel

Add 16mm Gib Fyreline plasterboard direct fixed to

Variation 1 60
both sides

Component Descriptions

Abbreviation Detailed Description

105mm XLam CLT wall panel 105mm XLam CLT 3-layer radiata pine wall panel (53kg/m2 )

13mm Gib standard plasterboard 13mm Gib standard plasterboard (min 8.6kg/m2)

13mm Gib Noiseline plasterboard 13mm Gib Noiseline sound-rated plasterboard (min 12.5kg/m2)

16mm Gib Fyreline plasterboard 16mm Gib Fyreline fire-rated plasterboard (min 13.7kg/m2)

50mm URSA glasswool insulation R1.4 (min 18kg/m3) or 50mm Bradford Acoustiguard glasswool
50mm Glasswool insulation
insulation R1.3 (min 14kg/m³)

75mm URSA glasswool insulation R1.8 (min. 17kg/m3) or 75mm Bradford Acoustiguard glasswool
75mm glasswool insulation
insulation R1.8 (min 14kg/m³)

70 x 45mm timber studs 70 x 45mm timber studs at 600mm centres

64mm Rondo steel studs 64mm Rondo steel studs 0.50BMT at 600mm centres

28mm Rondo 129 furring channel 28mm Rondo 129 furring channel at 600mm centres

30mm Rondo BetaGrip clip 30mm Rondo BetaGrip1 BG01 adjustable clip at 1200mm centres

Rondo STWC resilient mount Rondo STWC resilient mount at 1200mm centres

Gib Soundseal Gib Soundseal lining joint filler and perimeter sealant

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 Acoustic Design Guide

Wall Test Conclusions

• Unlined single panel XLam dividing walls will
not attain a compliant STC rating. However
unlined XLam in discontinuous paired panels
with insulation within the separation gap can
achieve compliance.
• Adding 16mm Gib Fyreline plasterboard
direct-fixed to both outer faces of paired panels
can increase the STC by up to 5dB.
• An STC enhancement of 1dB or more can be
made by adding a second lining layer of 13mm
Gib Standard plasterboard, or alternatively by
substituting Gib Standard plasterboard for a Gib
Noiseline layer.
• A single XLam structural dividing wall panel will
require linings to one or both sides packed out
on resilient mounts. Alternatively, a discontinuous
75mm stud frame wall to one side, plus
glasswool insulation within the cavity, will achieve
compliance.

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 Acoustic Design Guide

Complying Floor/Ceiling Assemblies

Configuration NZF0001-01 Components A to B Thickness mm STC IIC

12mm cut pile carpet

8mm chip foam underlay
145mm XLam CLT floor panel
100mm suspended ceiling with 291 56 74
resilient mounts
75mm glass wool insulation
2x 13mm GIB Standard plasterboard

Configuration NZT1617-56 Components A to B Thickness mm STC IIC

40mm screed
10mm rubber underlay
145mm XLam CLT floor panel
Resilient mount (67mm 288 59 56
minimum cavity)
50mm glass wool insulation
2x 13mm GIB Standard plasterboard

With 10mm ceramic floor tiles on 8mm

Variation 1 306 59 57
adhesive bed over screed

With 12mm cut pile carpet on 8mm

Variation 2 308 59 77
chip foam underlay

With 7mm laminate timber floor on

Variation 3 298 59 58
3mm foam underlay

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 Acoustic Design Guide

Configuration NZT1617-34 Components A to B Thickness mm STC IIC

40mm screed
10mm rubber underlay
145mm XLam CLT floor panel
100mm suspended ceiling with 321 58 56
resilient mounts
75mm glass wool insulation
2x 13mm GIB Standard plasterboard

With 7mm laminate timber laid on

Variation 1 331 58 59
3mm foam underlay

With single layer 13mm Gib standard

Variation 2 308 58 56
plasterboard ceiling lining

Configuration NZT1617-16 Components A to B Thickness mm STC IIC

20mm strand board floor

56mm Proctor Profloor
dynamic batten
20mm URSA mineral wool in cavity
145mm XLam CLT floor panel 347 58 56
100mm suspended ceiling with
resilient mounts
75mm glass wool insulation
2x 13mm GIB Standard plasterboard

With 12mm cut pile carpet on 8mm

Variation 1 367 57 83
chip foam underlay

With 7mm laminate timber laid on

Variation 2 357 58 60
3mm foam underlay

Substitute 30mm Proctor Profloor

Variation 3 321 57 56
Thin Batten

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 Acoustic Design Guide

Component Descriptions

Abbreviation Detailed Description

145mm XLam CLT floor panel 145mm XLam CLT 5-layer radiata pine floor panel (73kg/m2)

13mm Gib standard plasterboard 13mm Gib standard plasterboard (min 8.6kg/m2)

16mm Gib Fyreline plasterboard 16mm Gib Fyreline fire-rated plasterboard (min 13.7kg/m2)

20mm strand board floor 20mm Strandboard floor (min 14.2 kg/m²)

40mm screed 40mm sand-cement screed (min 80kg/m²)

25mm Proctor Gypcrete 25mm Proctor Gypcrete screed (min 59kg/m²)

20mm URSA mineral wool 20mm URSA Tera Sol T70P mineral wool insulation (70kg/m³)

50mm URSA glasswool insulation R1.4 (min 18kg/m3) or 50mm Bradford Acoustiguard glasswool
50mm glasswool insulation
insulation R1.3 (min 14kg/m³)

75mm URSA glasswool insulation R1.8 (min 17kg/m3) or 75mm Bradford Acoustiguard glasswool
75mm glasswool insulation
insulation R1.8 (min 14kg/m³)
100mm suspended ceiling with
100mm Rondo suspension ceiling with Rondo STSU resilient mounts at 1000 x 600mm centres
resilient mounts
67mm furring channel on resilient
67mm Rondo ceiling furring channel on Rondo STSL resilient mounts at 1000 x 600 centres
mounts
10mm rubber underlay 10mm Embleton Impactamat rubber acoustic underlay

Floor/Ceiling Test Conclusions

• Batten and rail systems should always
incorporate resilient connections, to achieve
STC and IIC 55dB or better.
• Acoustic performance is enhanced with an
increase of cavity depth, and by including
glasswool insulation within the ceiling cavity.
• Bare CLT floors require a resilient mat underlay
to floor coverings in order to achieve IIC 55dB
or better.
• The type of floor covering selected has little
bearing on STC rating provided it is installed on a
resilient underlay or bed.
• Carpet on chip foam underlay is by far the most
effective floor covering to increase IIC rating.
• A 40mm sand/cement screed on a loose-laid
resilient mat is effective at improving both STC
and IIC ratings. (Be aware that the IIC increases in
value with curing time for the screed).
• A loose-laid fibre cement sheet on a
loose-laid resilient mat offers an alternative to
a screed system.

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 Acoustic Design Guide

Acknowledgements
XLam would like to express special thanks to the following organisations and individuals who have contributed
their professional skills and experience to the preparation of material contained in this design guide:
Forest and Wood Products Australia Ltd (FWPA) and PKA Consulting for the research, laboratory testing and
reporting underlying the information contained in this Acoustic Design Guide.

User Feedback
Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) is relatively new to Australasia. Building with XLam CLT brings many benefits to
the construction market. The overriding aim of this design guide is to make an easy pathway for designers. Its
success is best judged by you as users. XLam welcomes all user feedback for future improvements.

13
New Zealand Edition | May 2017