Cross Laminated Timber
What are the Risks if Gaps Are Ignored
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Buckling of panels under seasonal expansion.
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Cracking of finishes such as plasterboard or cladding.
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Moisture entrapment leading to decay.
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Reduced airtightness and thermal performance.
Practical Takeaway
When installing CLT, always follow the manufacturer’s detailing instructions and allow for expansion gaps at junctions. These gaps are usually modest but critical for long-term performance. In Ireland’s damp climate, attention to airtightness and moisture durability is especially important for CLT projects.