Engineered wood products offer exceptional versatility and performance, but realizing their full potential depends on sound design and construction practices. APA’s design guidance helps architects, engineers and builders address the technical challenges that matter most – from moisture control and fire safety to acoustic comfort and energy efficiency. As the trusted industry resource for engineered wood, APA provides the research-backed guidance you need to build with confidence.
Moisture is one of the most damaging threats to long-term building performance. Learn how to design moisture-resistant foundations, walls and roofs using engineered wood products and APA’s technical guidance.
Designing for fire protection is a critical part of any construction project, ensuring that buildings meet code requirements and keep occupants safe. Explore key fire safety terminology, protection methods and tested assemblies for designing and building fire-rated systems with engineered wood.
In multifamily and commercial construction, poor acoustic performance leads to occupant complaints, higher vacancy rates and potential code violations. Learn how the right materials, assemblies and construction practices can help you deliver buildings that meet code and keep occupants comfortable.
Energy efficient construction protects homeowners from rising energy costs and supports a more sustainable built environment. Learn more about APA’s guidance on energy codes, advanced framing techniques and proven wood-based assemblies that help builders meet today’s code requirements with flexibility and confidence.
Technical Guides - J440
This publication provides five basic steps to construct energy-saving wood wall systems that meet code, are durable to the forces of nature and help homeowners save money.
Technical Guides - R505
This publication explains how to use a performance path to meet International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) requirements while balancing cost and structural requirements.
Technical Guides - W305
This publication is a guide to cost-effective fire-rated wood and wood structural panel systems that meet code requirements
Technical Note - T230
This publication describes single- and double-layer all-wood floor assemblies for acoustic performance and includes both construction details and acoustic ratings
Build A Better Home - A525
This publication outlines the characteristics of mold and mildew, the effect they can have on a structure and its inhabitants, and provides methods for prohibiting their growth.
Construction Guide - R425
Describes several options that satisfy fire-protection provisions of the 2012, 2015 and 2018 IRC related to I-joist floor systems, including construction details