The Rise of Mass Ply in Commercial Construction: Benefits and Applications

By Chad Elliott • April 16, 2025

As commercial construction evolves, innovative materials are transforming building design and construction. One of the most exciting advancements in recent years is Mass Ply by Freres Engineered Wood. At CD Redding, we’re always looking for new ways to enhance our projects’ quality, sustainability, and efficiency — and Mass Ply offers compelling benefits across various applications.

What is Mass Ply?

Mass Ply is a type of mass timber engineered wood product made by layering sheets of veneer in alternating directions. This process creates a strong, durable, and versatile building material that can be used for structural elements, including floors, walls, and roofs. Similar to Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT), Mass Ply offers improved performance and a lower environmental impact compared to traditional construction materials like steel and concrete.

One standout feature is its suitability for large-scale construction projects, such as warehouses and industrial spaces. Mass Ply’s strength-to-weight ratio and ability to support wide spans without additional columns make it an efficient choice for maximizing open floor space. This is particularly advantageous for commercial facilities that require flexible layouts and optimized functionality.

The benefits of using Mass Ply

  • Strength and durability — Despite being a wood product, Mass Ply offers remarkable strength and can handle significant structural loads. Its layered construction adds resilience, making it ideal for both load-bearing and non-load-bearing applications. Additionally, it performs well under seismic and fire conditions, enhancing the safety profile of commercial buildings and providing peace of mind for building owners and occupants.
  • Faster construction times — Prefabricated Mass Ply Panels can be assembled quickly on-site, reducing labor costs and shortening project timelines. The precision of factory-made cuts for windows, doors, and other components minimizes on-site errors and rework, streamlining construction processes. This efficiency is particularly beneficial for projects with tight schedules or in industries where minimizing disruption is crucial.
  • Aesthetic appeal — The natural wood look of Mass Ply products provides a warm and inviting aesthetic that enhances the interior design of commercial spaces, from offices to retail environments. The versatility of these products allows for creative architectural designs, combining visual appeal with functional spaces. It can also be left exposed for a contemporary look or integrated seamlessly with other materials for a balanced and polished finish.
  • Sustainability — Mass Ply is made from timber sourced from local forests and is not only renewable but also has a smaller carbon footprint than steel or concrete. It not only sequesters carbon during its lifespan but also promotes sustainable forestry practices by supporting responsible timber harvesting. Using Mass Ply in commercial construction aligns with green building certifications such as LEED, contributing to higher environmental standards and long-term ecological benefits.

Applications of Mass Ply in commercial construction

Mass Ply offers versatility across a broad spectrum of commercial construction projects. From healthcare facilities and educational institutions to retail and industrial spaces, it adapts seamlessly to diverse architectural needs. Its structural strength and natural aesthetic make it a smart choice for projects requiring durability and design flexibility.

Whether used in large-scale developments or smaller, customized builds, Mass Ply contributes to sustainable and efficient construction processes, aligning well with CD Redding’s commitment to quality and innovation.

Is Mass Ply right for your next project?

If you’re considering a new commercial construction project, Mass Ply might be an ideal choice. Whether you’re looking for sustainability, durability, or a distinctive design element, Mass Ply and other mass timber products offer unique advantages worth exploring. At CD Redding, we’re committed to helping our clients understand the best options for their projects — and we’re excited to integrate innovative solutions into our builds.

Ready to learn more?

If you’re interested in incorporating Mass Ply into your next project, contact CD Redding today. Our experienced team will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your project meets the highest standards of quality, efficiency, and sustainability.

For over 30 years, CD Redding has been the trusted choice for commercial construction in Salem and the Willamette Valley. Our focus on quality, professionalism, and client satisfaction sets us apart.

Our team’s deep expertise across these industries allows us to deliver projects that meet your immediate goals and position your business for long-term success.