LVL vs. Glulam – What Are the Differences for Vancouver Builders?
Choosing the right engineered wood products is critical for contractors and builders across Vancouver and the Lower Mainland.
Choosing the right engineered wood products is critical for contractors and builders across Vancouver and the Lower Mainland. Two of the most commonly compared materials are Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) and Glued Laminated Timber (Glulam). Both offer exceptional performance compared to traditional solid-sawn lumber, but each has unique advantages depending on your project’s design, budget, and structural requirements.
At Kerrisdale Lumber, we supply Vancouver’s contractors, builders, and developers with premium building materials and engineered lumber solutions. Here’s a breakdown of how LVL and Glulam differ—and when you should use one over the other.
TimberStrand LSL via Weyerhaeuser
What is LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber)?
LVL beams are created by bonding thin sheets of wood veneers under heat and pressure, with all grain aligned in the same direction. This process creates an incredibly strong and uniform product.
Why Vancouver builders use LVL:
Superior Strength – Ideal for beams, headers, and rafters.
Dimensional Stability – Resists warping, shrinking, and twisting.
Cost-Effective – Typically more affordable than Glulam.
Custom Sizes – Available in long, straight spans to fit structural requirements.
Trusted Brands – Kerrisdale Lumber supplies LVL from top names like Microlam (Weyerhaeuser), RigidLam (Prospan), and Roseburg.
LVL is often chosen for hidden structural applications in residential, commercial, and multi-family builds across Vancouver.
What is Glulam (Glued Laminated Timber)?
Glulam beams are manufactured by bonding together layers of dimensional lumber. Unlike LVL, Glulam can be fabricated into straight or curved shapes, making it a favorite for both structural strength and architectural design.
Why Vancouver Contractors Prefer Glulam:
Long Spans – Excellent for open-concept homes and commercial spaces.
Architectural Appeal – Natural wood look makes it ideal for exposed beams.
Design Flexibility – Can be curved or custom-shaped.
Dimensional Stability – Less prone to warping and twisting than solid sawn lumber.
Glulam is often selected for exposed structural applications, where both strength and aesthetics are equally important.
Which Should You Choose for Your Vancouver Build?
Choose LVL if you need cost-effective structural strength for beams, headers, and rafters that will not be exposed.
Choose Glulam if you need long spans with visible, natural appeal, such as in timber-style homes or open-concept commercial projects.
Both options outperform traditional lumber and are excellent choices for modern construction projects in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland.
Why Vancouver Contractors Trust Kerrisdale Lumber
For over 100 years, Kerrisdale Lumber has supplied lumber, building supplies, and engineered wood to contractors across Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond, Surrey, and North Vancouver. Our expertise and local knowledge help ensure your project gets the right materials, on time and within budget.
Conveniently located in Vancouver, we’re the go-to supplier for builders looking for engineered wood solutions like LVL and Glulam, as well as a full range of building materials and lumber supplies.
Contact Us Today
Ready to source LVL or Glulam beams in Vancouver for your next project? Our team at Kerrisdale Lumber is here to provide expert advice and the best selection of engineered wood and building supplies.
Visit us in Vancouver or contact us today to get a quote on LVL, Glulam, and other building materials.
Phone: (604) 261-4274
Email: lumbersales@kerrisdalelumber.com
Where to Buy: Lumber & Building Supplies in Vancouver
When it comes to building or renovating in Vancouver, the quality of your materials can make all the difference. Whether you’re a contractor working on a large-scale project or a homeowner tackling a backyard reno, finding the right lumber and building supplies in Vancouver is essential for durability, efficiency, and budget.
A Complete Guide for Contractors & Homeowners
When it comes to building or renovating in Vancouver, the quality of your materials can make all the difference. Whether you’re a contractor working on a large-scale project or a homeowner tackling a backyard reno, finding the right lumber and building supplies is essential for durability, efficiency, and overall budget.
At Kerrisdale Lumber, we’ve been supplying Vancouver builders, renovators, and DIYers with trusted products, and even more importantly, a trusted team to help guide you in the project process. Here’s your complete guide to choosing the best lumber supplies in Vancouver, and why so many rely on us for their projects.
Types of Lumber Materials Available in Vancouver
Not all lumber is created equal, and choosing the right type ensures your project looks great and lasts. At Kerrisdale Lumber, we carry a full line of premium lumber materials in Vancouver.
SPF & J-Grade Premium Lumber - Ideal for precision framing.
Pressure-Treated Lumber - Designed for outdoor use, built to withstand the elements.
Engineered Wood Products - Perfect for strength and efficiency in larger builds.
Specialty & Hardwoods - For projects that demand aesthetics as much as durability.
Explore our full product range here: Kerrisdale Lumber Products
Where to Find Reliable Lumber Supplies in Vancouver
When searching for lumber supplies in Vancouver, you’ll find everything from big-box retailers to specialized suppliers. While big chains may stock general materials, local suppliers like Kerrisdale Lumber provide some key advantages that play a role in your project staying on track and in budget.
Unmatched Service & Support - Our team tracks your project needs and helps you plan ahead for any unexpected delays or hiccups.
Project Partner Approach - We help our customers build smarter, so you can keep your project on track.
On the Road Sales Team - We bring expertise and service right to your jobsite & go above and beyond to help your team.
Special Orders & Custom Layouts - We’ll find the products you need & get them to you.
Discover more about why contractors and homeowners choose us: Why Kerrisdale
Tips for Choosing the Right Building Supplies in Vancouver
When selecting materials for your project, keep these key factors in mind:
Durability - Vancouver’s wet climate demands quality lumber that can withstand moisture and the elements.
Sustainability - Choose responsibly sourced lumber that meets today’s environmental standards.
Cost Efficiency - Work with our team to ensure your project is optimized, within budget, and on time.
Expert Guidance - Our team of experts have been in industry for decades and know exactly what the right ingredients are for a successful project.
Start Your Next Project With Industry Expertise
When it comes to building supplies and lumber in Vancouver, Kerrisdale Lumber is here to get your project done right the first time. Visit our location in Marpole, call our team, or start your quote on our website using our quick quote tool.
Blog Post Title Two
It all begins with an idea.
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.
Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.
Blog Post Title Three
It all begins with an idea.
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.
Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.
Blog Post Title Four
It all begins with an idea.
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.
Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.