A large part of the answer actually lies in why we build the way we have for so many decades. History shows that while timber-based construction in the United States was increasing prior to WWII, the need for readily available and economically feasible building materials increased both during and after WWII. In a sense, supply chains driven by War needs, as well as the skyrocketing housing demand as The Greatest Generation returned home solidified timber as a primary building material.
