Comment Re:Why replace concrete and steel? (Score 2) 99
On the code updates, you're right, but it wouldn't replace 2x4 and 2x6 and 2x8 you use in walls and floors. Those are driven as much by other factors (spacing required to nail sheetrock too) and depth needed for insulation to function than they are structural requirements.
Where it would be powerful in residential is when you are replacing steel or Glue-lam beams. In those cases, a structural engineer is calculating the loads on each beam and spec-ing it in the permit with the calculations, so the city wouldn't care that it's the same dimensions as the other beam, just that it's calculated to carry the load.
Commercial and industrial is similar, it's all calculated not spec'd as in "use 2x6 for walls" like we see in residential code.
It would be interesting if it ends up as cheap as gluelam beams but much more compact so that you don't have beams dropping below the ceiling while still having the ability to carry the load. This would be very interesting, especially if you can use wood hangars and fasteners and not have to bring in a steel guy to a jobsite for a single beam. If your regular framers can handle it, it would reduce costs and time to build.