Custom Fernie Residence with DLT
Custom Fernie Residence with DLT
High-performance timber construction with mass timber and wood fibre insulation
We had the opportunity to collaborate on a custom residential home in Fernie, BC, where thoughtful design, efficiency, and long-term performance were central to every decision. International Timberframes supplied the timberframe elements, dowel laminated timber (DLT) roof panels, and Pavatex wood fibre insulation.
The structure combines traditional timberframe craftsmanship with prefabricated stick-frame walls insulated with Pavatex wood fibre. A DLT rafter system forms the roof, supported by timberframe overhang beams, while a timberframe covered patio extends the living space outdoors and adds warmth and character to the home.
A standout feature of this project is the speed and efficiency of the mass timber roof installation. A total of 2,500 square feet of DLT roof panels were installed and made watertight in just one day. As the homeowner explains: “I chose DLT because of the creative use of dimensional lumber to create a seamless roof profile. We get the benefits of mass timber construction and also a zero-maintenance ceiling. Construction only required one day of crane time to install the entire set of DLT panels.”
The Pavatex wood fibre insulation plays a key role in the home’s performance. Described by the owner as “wrapping your house in a fleece blanket,” the system provides thermal inertia, soundproofing, and a breathable wall assembly. Moisture can move freely through the entire wall buildup while air ingress is kept to a minimum, contributing to a healthy indoor environment. This approach allowed the home to easily achieve a Step 5 energy rating.
Reflecting on the overall system, the homeowner adds:
“I would recommend both DLT and wood fibre to home builders who consider the full lifecycle economics and environmental factors.”
This Fernie residence demonstrates how mass timber, natural insulation materials, and prefabricated systems—when thoughtfully supplied and coordinated—can deliver high performance, construction efficiency, and enduring timber architecture.
