Types of Engineered Wood Products

When it comes to construction materials, you will notice that there is a growing need for engineered wood. Their popularity is on the rise because all types of engineered wood products are considered sustainable, versatile, and durable. Here, at Country Lumber, we understand how these materials are made and we can help you make the right choice.

Each of these products has its own unique uses and properties, and their uses range from subfloors and roofing to furniture and cabinetry. By understanding the different types of engineered wood products available, you can choose the right one for your construction needs.

What Are the Types of Engineered Wood Products?

Engineered wood products are made from wood fibres, strands, or veneers that have been bound together with adhesives and pressed into sheets or boards. There is a reason why they are a popular choice among builders and homeowners alike, and it is that they offer a sustainable and durable solution that is also cost-effective. Here are the most common ones:

Plywood

One of the most common types of engineered wood is plywood. It is made by gluing together multiple layers of thin wood veneers at right angles with each other, creating a strong and stable panel. As such, it is less likely to warp or split than solid wood. Plywood is commonly used for subfloors, roofing, and exterior sheathing.

Oriented Strand Board (OSB)

Oriented strand board (OSB) is surely among the most popular engineered wood products and is widely used in construction. OSB is made by compressing wood strands using resin and wax under high pressure and heat, creating a strong and durable panel. It is fairly similar to plywood, but is typically less expensive. This type of engineered wood is usually used for sheathing, flooring, and roofing.

Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL)

Laminated veneer lumber (LVL) is another common engineered wood material used in a variety of cases. LVL is made by bonding together thin layers of wood veneer with adhesives, creating a strong and stable beam that can be used for structural applications. This includes headers, beams, and rafters. LVL is often used in place of solid wood for its superior strength and stability.

Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF)

Medium-density fibreboard (MDF) is a product of wood recycling. It is made by breaking down wood fibres into a fine powder, which is then mixed with resin and compressed under high pressure and heat to form a dense and uniform panel. MDF is typically used for furniture, cabinets, and interior trim, because of its smooth surface and ability to be painted or finished.

Particleboard

Another engineered wood product used for furniture and cabinetry is particleboard. It is made by compressing wood particles along with resin under high pressure and heat, making into a strong and uniform panel. It is lightweight, so its biggest advantage is that it can be handled and transported with ease.

If you want to get more information on the different types of engineered wood products, get in touch with our team at 1-866-533-4447.

3 Reasons to Use Treated Lumber

When choosing wood products for your project, it can be difficult to determine which solution is best for your needs, budget, and other elements. With so many options for wood products available and different qualities to consider for each product, it can feel impossible to know where to start your search. While there are many types of durable and reliable lumber on the market, few can match the many benefits provided by treated lumber products. Also known as pressure-treated lumber, treated lumber is created by using intense pressure to force a chemical compound into the grain of the wood that makes it resistant to rot and decay. To demonstrate the utility of this product, the team at Country Lumber has put together a list of 3 reasons to use treated lumber for your project.

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3 Benefits of Pressure-Treated Lumber

While pressure-treated lumber typically costs more than natural wood, it offers several benefits that make it well worth the investment. These benefits include:

1. Enhanced Moisture Resistance

One of the biggest benefits of treated lumber is its increased resistance to moisture. While most types of natural and untreated lumber will absorb moisture throughout the year, treated lumber repels it. This helps treated lumber maintain its shape and durability for years to come, as absorbing excess moisture can cause wrapping, rot, and other forms of damage. This lasting durability and resistance to moisture damage makes treated lumber the ideal choice for outdoor landscape features like decks, gazebos, and bridges.

2. Resistance to Microorganisms

Microorganisms can cause significant damage to lumber over time, especially if they are left untreated. Since pressure-treated lumber is designed to repel moisture, there will never be a suitable setting for microorganisms to develop. The chemical compounds used in treated lumber are also copper-based, further minimizing the chance of fungi, bacteria, and other microorganisms growing in or on the wood.

3. Insect Repellent

Insects such as carpenter ants or termites can cause significant damage to wooden structures and landscape features, especially if the wood is prone to absorbing moisture. Many types of treated wood are designed to repel insect activity by using compounds that deter them from settling on or near the surface of the lumber. These compounds can also deter pests, like spiders, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space in peace.

To learn more about our selection of treated lumber products or for assistance choosing the perfect solution for your project, get in touch with the team at Country Lumber. We can be reached through our online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding our products.

What is Pressure-Treated Wood?

When it comes to lumber, there are many different options available for projects of all sizes. Whether you are building a deck, constructing a retaining wall for a garden, or installing fence posts, it is crucial to choose the right materials for the job to ensure lasting durability and safety. As a leading provider of high-quality decking products and other materials, the team at Country Lumber knows how difficult it can be to determine which materials are right for your needs. That is why we have compiled some information to help you learn what pressure-treated wood is, how it is created, and what it can be used for to help you make an informed decision.

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How is Pressure-Treated Wood Created?

Pressure-treated wood is created through an infusion process that combines chemical preservatives with lumber to protect it from rot and insects. The wood is placed in a depressurized holding tank that removes the air and replaces it with a preservative. The chemical preservative used in the process makes the lumber highly resistant to insects and moisture while enhancing protection against severe weather conditions, making it the ideal choice for outdoor environments.

There are several different levels of wood treatment based on the location/environment the lumber is intended to be used in. For example, lumber that needs to be submerged in water for a dock will undergo a more extensive pressure treatment than lumber than will be placed on soil for a garden wall.

Suitable Applications for Pressure-Treated Wood

In most cases, the wood used in outdoor projects should be pressure-treated. Wood for cabinets and furniture does not need the same level of treatment as it will not be exposed to the same level of moisture or changes in temperature. Pressure-treated lumber is recommended in situations or environments where there is direct contact between the wood and anything that could supply moisture.

Pressure-treated wood is an ideal choice for:

·         Outdoor decks.

·         Retaining walls for gardens and large landscaping projects to hold soil.

·         Posts or beams that contact the ground or are buried underground.

·         Docks.

·         Fences.

·         Situations where lumber needs to touch concrete or stone.

To learn more about our selection of decking products and other materials, get in touch with the team at Country Lumber. We can be reached through our online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding our products or the details of your project.

Benefits of Parallam® Lumber

Whether your project is small and straightforward or large and complex, the materials you choose will have a significant impact on the final quality. This is especially true for lumber and other structural materials. When it comes to lumber, it can be difficult to determine which option is the best choice for various elements of your project. That is why the team at Country Lumber has compiled some information on the benefits of Parallam® lumber to demonstrate how it compares to other engineered wood products and how it can be a great choice for projects of all sizes. 

Learn what Glulam timbers are and how they differ from Parallam® timbers.

What is Parallam® Lumber and How is it Made?

Parallam® lumber is made from bonding parallel strand lumber (PSL) together in a continuous press using waterproof adhesives with a phenol-formaldehyde base. It can be made from a variety of materials including Douglas-fir, pine, and western hemlock. Parallam® lumber can be stained to enhance the warmth and texture of the wood. It is also sanded at the end of the production process to ensure precise dimensions and to provide a high-quality surface for exterior-based applications.

Parallam® Lumber Benefits

Parallam® lumber offers the following benefits for various projects:

Available in Long Lengths

While many types of lumber can theoretically be cut into long lengths, most will lose their durability and strength once they pass a certain length. One of the most significant benefits of Parallam® lumber is that it can support exceptionally heavy loads. This allows it to be cut in extremely long lengths, making it the ideal choice for beams, columns, headers, and other important structural materials.

Consistent Strength, Durability, and Performance

Though lumber is one of the most common construction materials, it is often difficult to find consistent quality with natural wood products. Since Parallam® lumber is constructed through a precise process, every beam offers consistent strength and durability for any type of project in nearly any environment.

Highly Efficient and Environmentally Friendly

Since Parallam® lumber is constructed from strands of wood fibres from other lumber products, it is one of the most environmentally friendly and efficient options on the market. This allows you to choose a durable material without worrying about depleting resources.

To learn more about Parallam® lumber and our other engineered wood solutions, get in touch with the experts at Country Lumber. We can be reached through our online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding our products or your project.

What are Glulam Timbers?

When it comes to residential and commercial construction projects, the materials you choose can make a significant impact on the durability and lifespan of a building. As leading providers of high-quality engineered wood products, the team at Country Lumber knows how important it is to choose the right material for your project and the environment it is located in. That is why we have provided some information to outline what glulam timbers are, where they are used, and the benefits they offer to help you determine if they are the right choice for your project.

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How are Glulam Timbers Made?

Glulam (glued-laminated timber) is an engineered wood product that consists of multiple individual layers of dimensional lumber that are glued together under controlled conditions. Glulam is made from a wide variety of wood species including Douglas-fir, spruce-pine-fir (SPF), and western hemlock. Multiple laminations are pressed together using a mechanized hydraulic press and bonded with weather-resistant adhesives. Glulam can be customized as straight, curved, arched, or tapered, making it a versatile choice for many projects.

Common Forms of Glulam Timbers

Glulam timbers can be used for a variety of indoor and outdoor projects. Common forms include, but are not limited to:

·         Straight beams (lintels, purlins, ridge beams, and floor beams)

·         Round and square columns

·         Tied rafters

·         Trusses

·         Tied arches

·         Arched bridge supports

·         Curved beams

Benefits of Glulam Timbers

Glulam timbers are a popular choice for various industries due to their strength, versatility, and cost-effectiveness. Whether you are working on a large custom home or an intricate townhouse complex, glulam timbers offer the following benefits:

·         Can be used for roof and floor beams, columns, bracing, decking, and other structural components

·         Eco-friendly material with very low formaldehyde levels

·         Highly sustainable due to being constructed from smaller pieces of “leftover” lumber

·         Reduced transportation and handling costs due to lower weight

·         Easy to install in any setting

·         Customizable to fit unique projects or specific dimensions

·         More readily available than conventional lumber

·         Exceptional fire resistance that can outlast steel beams under the same fire conditions

To learn more about glulam timbers or other types of engineered wood, get in touch with the experts at Country Lumber. We can be reached through our online contact form and will be happy to help you choose the perfect materials for your project.

The Different Types of Plywood

Plywood is a crucial material for construction projects of all sizes. Whether you are building a custom home or a large condo building, you will likely use some form of plywood during the construction process. Though most forms of plywood have a similar appearance, some types of plywood are more suitable for certain projects over others. As leading providers of plywood and other construction materials, the team at Country Lumber understands the importance of choosing the right material for the job. That is why our team has provided some information on the types of plywood we provide to help you choose the best option for your project.

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What is Plywood?

Plywood is a strong and inexpensive alternative to solid wood that is widely used in a variety of construction projects. It is manufactured with 3 or more layers of wood veneers (thin sheets of wood) that have been pressed or glued together. Each ply of wood is laid down with its grain running perpendicular to the one before it to help it maintain a high level of durability and strength. Plywood is available in a variety of different types, each with different properties, durability, and suitable uses.

4 Main Types of Plywood

Plywood is available in many different types based on your project requirements. The following 4 types of plywood are among the most common:

Standard Sheathing

Standard sheathing plywood is commonly used for floors, walls, and roofs. Standard sheathing is available in spruce or fir and can be purchased in various thicknesses based on your project requirements or local regulations.

Formply

Formply is constructed with Douglas fir for enhanced strength and stiffness. As a structural plywood, it is overlaid on both sides with a resin-impregnated film that has been fused into the surface veneer under heat and pressure. The resulting surface is moisture resistant and suitable for use in concrete framework projects.

OSB

OSB (Oriented Strand Board) is an engineered wood product that is formed by layering strands or flakes of wood in specific orientations. OSB is mainly used for floor, wall, and roof sheathing. It is an economical option compared to standard plywood while retaining a high level of durability.

Specialty Plywood

In addition to fir and spruce, plywood can be crafted from a variety of specialty materials such as mahogany and maple. These specialty materials tend to be used for furniture and prominent wooden features for homes due to their enhanced durability and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

To learn more about our selection of plywood products and other construction materials, get in touch with the team at Country Lumber. We can be reached through our online contact form or by phone at 604-533-4447 and will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding our products.

Benefits of Engineered Wood

Engineered wood is a highly versatile and sustainable option for construction projects, flooring, and other areas where traditional hardwood is used. Also known as composite wood, man-made wood, or manufactured board, engineered wood is manufactured by binding the strands, particles, fibres, or veneers of wood together with adhesives and pressure. This forms a composite wood material that is engineered to precise performance and safety standards. At Country Lumber, we are proud to provide a full selection of engineered TJI joists, microlam, Parallam®, and Timberstrand® products for all projects. To demonstrate the effectiveness of these products, our team has provided a list of key benefits of engineered wood.

Why Choose Engineered Wood?

Engineered wood offers a variety of benefits for all types of construction projects and facilities. When you choose engineered wood, you are choosing a solution that is:

Engineered for Optimal Versatility

Engineered wood products can be constructed in a variety of shapes and lengths that natural wood may not be available in. This allows for the use of one extremely long piece of lumber instead of multiple pieces of hardwood that have been joined together, reducing labour requirements. Engineered wood is also available in large sheets known as pressboard. These sheets are ideal for a variety of construction and decorative purposes. Engineered wood can be effectively used for support beams, flooring, cabinets, desks, and many other parts of a project.

Built to Provide Strength and Durability

Engineered wood does not have naturally occurring knots or other weak points that are present in natural lumber. This allows for consistent strength and durability throughout the entire piece of wood. The glue used to join the wood particles and veneers together greatly increases resistance to water and moisture. As a result, engineered wood is more resistant to rot, insects, and mold. Engineered wood is also more resistant to warping and cracking compared to natural wood, increasing its durability and total usable life.

Highly Sustainable

Sustainability is of the utmost importance when it comes to the lumber industry in BC. Companies must ensure that the demand for natural lumber/hardwood does not outweigh the supply. That is why many operations are starting to utilize engineered wood products in their construction projects. Engineered wood products are constructed from the leftover particles and pieces of processed hardwood products. Materials that would normally be burned or disposed of are now used to construct sustainable lumber products, minimizing waste and reducing the number of trees needed for hardwood supply.

To learn more about the benefits of engineered wood products and our other lumber solutions, reach out to the experts at Country Lumber. We can be reached by phone at 604-533-4447 or through our online contact form and will be happy to assist you.

Simple Home Projects Using Cedar

If you are looking for an easy new project to do around your home with inexpensive materials, it is worth looking into some simple home projects using cedar. Cedar is a great material for most home projects as it is easy to work with, inexpensive, and resistant to rot and mould. At Country Lumber, we provide a massive variety of cedar products for all kinds of uses. Whether you are looking for a large load of cedar fencing or a couple of small boards for some home projects, we can help.

Ideas for Simple Cedar Projects

The projects that you will be able to complete will vary depending on the kind of cedar you use, the tools you have on hand, and your skill level, but there are some very basic projects that can be done around the house using cedar boards. Some great ideas for cedar woodworking projects that use minimal tools include:

A Cedar Feature Wall

A feature wall can be done very easily with only a saw, some cedar boards, and a drill. There are many patterns for cedar feature walls that can be pursued, so select a feature wall strategy that suits your space and skill level.

Raised Planter and Garden Boxes

Due to its moisture resistance and long-lasting properties, cedar is used all the time for planters and flower bed boxes. It is possible to create a rudimentary yet beautiful raised garden bed using simple tools and cedar.

Shelving

Shelves are another project that can be made easily using cedar. Cedar can look either rustic or refined depending on how it is finished, so it can suit nearly any home aesthetic. Whether you are creating standalone shelving units or mounting shelves on a wall, there are many options using cedar.

Outdoor Bench

Create some extra outdoor seating space with a simple outdoor cedar bench. You can experiment with designs in order to create something truly unique, or make your bench double as extra storage space for outdoor toys or equipment by setting a seat on a hinge and making the base a box.

Pet House

Depending on the size of your pet and your level of ambition, you can create a truly unique or completely conventional shelter for your dog, cat, or other animal using cedar and some very simple designs.

If you would like to talk more about your next home project or find out more simple home project ideas that use cedar, feel free to contact our knowledgeable team and we would be happy to help you get the information you need to get started.

Where to Find Rough Cut Timbers

Whether you are building a new house, renovating a commercial space, or working on any other kind of project that incorporates natural wood accents, it can be extremely useful to know where to find rough cut timbers in BC’s Lower Mainland. At Country Lumber, we provide a wide variety of different types and sizes of rough cut timbers that can be used in all kinds of construction projects.

Rough Sawn Timber Supplier in BC

If your next building project includes a rustic look in the design plans, rough cut timbers are a good way to achieve that aesthetic. Rough cut lumber is wood that has been cut on a band saw in order to achieve a rough yet even wood surface. There are many different types of rough sawn lumber, and each of the different types offer varying benefits.

Types of Rough Cut Timbers

Two of the most popular types of wood to use for rough cut timbers in BC are Douglas fir and cedar. Both are excellent for use in construction and are popularly used for exposed beams and other elements. Douglas fir and cedar timbers both have long, straight grains that allow them to be used for structural and aesthetic projects without warping too often. Although both products are frequently used for both indoor and outdoor applications, cedar does better when exposed to the elements due to its superior rot resistance.

Rough Cut Timbers from Country Lumber

Since there are so many uses for rough sawn lumber, it is a good idea to make sure that your lumber supplier carries a wide variety of sizes. The rough cut timbers from Country Lumber are available in many sizes to suit any project, from building a shelf to framing a house, from indoor moulding to deck building materials. Kiln dried rough hewn timbers are also available from Country Lumber for projects that need wood of exceptional quality. Kiln drying reduces the chances of distortion or other imperfections, meaning that your building project can move forward more efficiently.

If you are interested in finding out more about where to find rough cut timbers for different projects, or if you would like to learn more about any of the other services and supplies available from Country Lumber, please contact us and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Benefits of Treated Lumber

One of the biggest issues with building with wood is that most types of wood have a limited lifespan when left out in the elements. Sun and moisture tend to take a toll on most types of lumber. In order to mitigate this issue, one of the most commonly used types of wood for outdoor construction or landscaping purposes is treated lumber. Treated lumber, also frequently called pressure treated lumber, uses intense pressure to force a chemical compound into the grain of the lumber that makes it resistant to rot and decay. At Country Lumber, we know when the benefits of treated lumber make it a necessity to use for building projects and our knowledgeable staff can help you to get the right type of wood for your upcoming project.

Advantages of Pressure Treated Lumber

Although treated lumber often costs more than natural wood, it is more than worth the extra money that it might cost in many circumstances. Some of the best reasons to use treated lumber for a project with exposure to the elements include:

Moisture Resistance

The best reason to use treated lumber is for its resistance to moisture. While most types of natural wood will absorb moisture and soften, treated lumber will repel moisture. Moisture in wood provides ground for many different microorganisms to grow and cause the wood to rot, so using treated lumber is a necessity in areas where moisture will be present, such as landscape features, decks, gazebos, bridges, and even docks and piers.

Resistance to Microorganisms

Pressure treated lumber is designed to repel moisture so that there is no ground for microorganisms to gain a footing on, but it is also designed to repel the microorganisms themselves. The chemical compounds used to treat lumber are all copper based in order to create an environment in which fungus, bacteria, and other microorganisms are unable to survive.

Insect Repellence

Insects such as carpenter ants or termites can cause big problems for wood structures, especially if the wood is prone to moisture. Many types of treated wood are designed to repel insect activity. Not only can treated lumber repel insects that can cause structural damage, but it can also work to keep bugs that are a nuisance, such as spiders, from becoming a problem.

If you are interested in learning more about the benefits of treated lumber, or if you would like to find out about any of the other services and supplies available from Country Lumber, please contact us and we will get back to you as soon as possible.