CINTRAFOR
Working Paper Abstract
A Technical Assessment of the North American-Style 2x4 Residential
Construction System in Japan
Ivan Eastin, Tom Ossinger, Roger Williams, Steven Shook, Robert Hashizume,
Joseph Roos. (96 pp)
Anecdotal information from US architects and contractors with experience in
residential construction projects in Japan indicates that Japanese
construction professionals often do not fully understand the North
American-style 2x4 construction system, and often employ construction
techniques that can compromise the structural integrity and/or long-term
performance of these homes. A recent study by CINTRAFOR estimates that 2x4
construction costs in Japan
range from 2 to 2.5 times higher than in the US
(Eastin et al. 1995), partly due to differences in the way that the
technology and construction management practices are implemented in Japan. The
CINTRAFOR study suggested that Japanese construction professionals could
improve their cost effectiveness and improve the quality of 2x4 homes built in Japan by
increasing their understanding of North American-style 2x4 construction
technology and construction management practices.
This research project was designed to provide specific information about how
North American-style 2x4 homes are built in Japan. The specific objectives of
this research project were to:
- provide information to help
Japanese construction professionals rationalize and reduce 2x4
construction costs through a more efficient transfer of North
American-style 2x4 construction technology;
- identify areas where a more
efficient transfer of North American-style 2x4 construction technology
could help improve the structural integrity and long-term performance of
2x4 homes in Japan; and
- provide information to
support the development and implementation of the 2x4 technology transfer
program administered by the Washington State Department of Community,
Trade and Economic Development.
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