Mercer Mass Timber launches construction services division

Key Takeaways:

• Mercer Mass Timber is launching its own construction services division that will integrate engineering, manufacturing, and construction teams under one roof.
• The new division will offer a wide range of services, including full mass timber structure erection, logistics planning, lift/bracing engineering, site supervision/consultation and more.
• Officials stated that the expansion will allow developers and owners to unlock the full potential of mass timber.

The Whole Story:

Mercer Mass Timber is expanding beyond materials production with the launch of its own construction service division. 

The Vancouver-based manufacturer of timber building materials announced Mercer Mass Timber Construction Services will offer both comprehensive on-site installation for fully integrated construction and project consultancy for clients seeking expert guidance and strategic support. 

Mercer stated that this expansion marks a significant step forward for Mercer Mass Timber, enabling customers to achieve greater project efficiency and faster completion times.

By offering comprehensive planning, scheduling, on-site installation, and quality control from one vendor, we’re empowering developers and owners to unlock the full potential of mass timber.

Brian Merwin, senior vice president at Mercer Mass Timber

Mercer officials explained that historically, the construction industry has faced challenges with fragmented processes and siloed communication between a wide range of stakeholders. These operational silos are further impacted by lagging technological advancement and digitization, an aging workforce, and a lack of skilled workers, which widens issues like poor information sharing, uncoordinated efforts, and ultimately, project inefficiencies and failures.

Mercer Mass Timber believes its new division bridges this gap by integrating engineering, manufacturing, and construction teams under one roof for unparalleled control over the entire construction process. This holistic approach fosters collaboration, ensuring safe, rapid, and risk-managed installation for mass timber projects.

Mercer Mass Timber’s Construction Services plans to take a vertically integrated approach, minimizing project complexities by taking control at every stage. This means meticulously detailed production plans, combined with in-house engineering expertise and precise logistics work together to deliver faster completion times and reduced costs.

The company explained that controlling the entire process allows its team to optimize communication and resource allocation, leading to less waste, minimized risks, and streamlined construction schedules. 

“In order to be competitive in today’s market, our customers need the assurance that their projects will be completed on-time, on-budget, and with exceptional aesthetics and quality,” said Brian Merwin, senior vice president at Mercer Mass Timber. “Now, with the launch of Construction Services, we’re extending our mass timber production capabilities to support the entire project lifecycle with a value engineering led approach. By offering comprehensive planning, scheduling, on-site installation, and quality control from one vendor, we’re empowering developers and owners to unlock the full potential of mass timber. At Mercer Mass Timber, we’re not just building structures; we’re revolutionizing the way construction works.”

Construction Services key offerings include:

• Full mass timber structure erection: Utilizing proprietary mass timber-specific tools, Mercer Mass Timber handles the complete timber installation process, including layout, crane management, mass timber rigging, temporary structure bracing, and hardware installation.
• Logistics planning & installation sequencing: Meticulous planning ensures efficient material delivery and on-site management.
• Lift/bracing engineering: In-house engineering expertise ensures safe and efficient lifting and bracing solutions.
• Site supervision/consultation: Dedicated superintendents and construction managers provide on-site oversight and support throughout the installation process.
• Construction scheduling: Advanced scheduling tools optimize resource allocation and minimize delays.
• Modelling & technology: Project models that simulate construction activities and BIM technology ensure seamless communication and coordination.
• Project management: Detailed plans and close collaboration with clients, subcontractors, and suppliers ensure smooth project execution.
• Labor management: Vertical integration with engineering and manufacturing teams optimizes workflow and resource allocation.
• Quality control: Unwavering commitment to quality ensures projects meet the highest standards.
• Water mitigation implementation: Working knowledge and expertise of mass timber water mitigation strategies to best meet client goals.