ABSTRACT

Timber construction is important in transitioning towards a circular and sustainable building sector due to its renewable nature, carbon sequestration potential, and material properties. This paper focuses on evaluating the potential of demountability in timber construction as a key aspect of Design for Disassembly (DfD) to enhance resource efficiency and reusability. Existing circularity evaluation systems often lack timber-specific criteria, particularly regarding fasteners, modularity, and layered assemblies. Part of the RE:wood research project, this study analyzes established evaluation frameworks, identifying gaps and proposing criteria tailored to timber construction. Key findings highlight the need for precise disassembly indicators and the role of digital tools, such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), in standardizing disassembly data. The study provides initial steps towards adapting circularity indices to timber construction, laying the groundwork for enhanced evaluation systems that support timber’s role in advancing circular construction practices.