Why "Tight Access" is No Problem for Your Next Vancouver Build
If you are a contractor building in Vancouver, you know the headache. You have a project schedule to keep, but the job site is down a narrow laneway in North Vancouver, or tucked into a dense residential block in Kitsilano.
Kerrisdale Lumber’s specialized fleet ensures on-time delivery for even the most difficult locations.
If you are a contractor building in Vancouver, you know the headache. You have a project schedule to keep, but the job site is down a narrow laneway in North Van, or tucked into a dense residential block in Kitsilano. Standard delivery trucks just can't make the turn, or worse, they drop your materials blocks away, forcing your crew to waste hours hauling lumber by hand.
At Kerrisdale Lumber Contractor Division, we know that in this city, logistics is the job.
The "Vancouver Special" Fleet
We don’t just sell lumber — we deliver solutions. Our yard in Marpole is equipped with a diverse fleet specifically chosen for the unique geography of the Lower Mainland.
Crane Trucks: For placing loads precisely where you need them, minimizing site congestion.
Flat Decks & Box Trucks: Versatile options for different load sizes.
Tight-Access Vehicles: We specialize in getting materials into the hard-to-reach spots that other suppliers refuse to attempt.
More Than Just a Drop-Off
Time is money on a construction site. When you partner with us, you get same-day delivery options and a logistics team that understands the rhythm of a multi-family wood frame build. We don't just dump the load and run; we coordinate with your site super to ensure the drop happens safely and efficiently, keeping your timeline intact.
Local Service for Local Builders
Stop stressing about logistics and focus on the build. Whether you are framing a custom home in Dunbar or a multi-unit project in East Van, trust the local experts who have been navigating these streets for decades.
Get a Quote for your next delivery today.
Simpson Strong-Tie HDU Holdown Now Replaced by New HDUE
At Kerrisdale Lumber, we know that even the smallest hardware changes can have a big impact on your jobsite, especially when those products are used on nearly every single home you build.
At Kerrisdale Lumber, we know that even the smallest hardware changes can have a big impact on your jobsite — especially when those products are used on nearly every single home you build. That’s why we want to share an important update from Simpson Strong-Tie: the long-trusted HDU Holdown (the model builders have been using for years) is being officially replaced by the new HDUE Holdown.
This may seem like a small change, but for Vancouver’s builders, it’s a big upgrade. Holdowns are used heavily and consistently in wood-frame construction — especially on single-family homes — so the shift to a new model matters.
We now have HDUE holdowns available through Kerrisdale Lumber so you can keep your framing schedules moving without interruption.
What’s Being Replaced?
The classic Simpson HDU Holdown is being phased out and replaced with something even better.
HDU has long been one of the most widely used holdowns for:
Post-to-foundation connections
Shearwall anchoring
Uplift restraint
Seismic and lateral load resistance
If you’ve built a home in Vancouver, chances are you’ve used dozens of these.
Introducing the New Simpson HDUE Holdown (Replacement Model)
The HDUE Holdown is the new upgraded product taking its place — and it’s designed for higher performance, easier installation, and improved load efficiency.
Key Improvements with the HDUE:
Higher allowable loads: Larger HDUE sizes use angled + perpendicular fastening, increasing capacity while reducing the number of screws required.
Fewer fasteners: This is a major benefit for framers — fewer screws, faster installs, less fatigue.
Compatible with modern engineered lumber: HDUE’s optimized fastener pattern reduces splitting and preserves net section in both dimensional lumber and engineered wood (LVL, PSL, etc.).
Faster install with SDS screws: Like the HDU, the HDUE uses Strong-Drive® SDS screws, but its pattern is optimized to speed things up and improve performance.
Pre-deflected seat
Built-in preloading reduces deflection under load and provides long-term stability. For Vancouver’s seismic region and today’s engineering requirements, HDUE is a stronger, more efficient connector built for modern wood construction.
Why This “Small Change” Matters for Vancouver Builders
Because holdowns are used heavily — often dozens per house — even a small update affects:
Takeoffs
Engineering specs
Jobsite installation
Fastener requirements
Inspection processes
Material planning and inventory
Many of our clients go through thousands of HDU holdowns each year. With HDUE now replacing HDU, it’s important to understand the changes, the improvements, and how the new product fits into your workflow.
And we’re here to help.
Need Help Understanding the HDUE Swap-In? We’ve Got You.
Whether you’re a builder, contractor, or engineer, our team can walk you through:
Which HDUE replaces which HDU size
Load changes
Fastener requirements
Availability and pricing
How to include HDUE in future framing packages
We're here to support your builds — from the foundation up.
Get the New HDUE Holdowns Today at Kerrisdalel Lumber
The new HDUE is now fully stocked at Kerrisdalel Lumber & Building Supply. If your framing crews are used to HDU, HDUE is the improved, updated replacement — and we’re ready to get it to your site quickly.
Local inventory
Fast jobsite delivery
Full range of building materials and hardware
Visit kerrisdalelumbercd.ca or contact our team to order your HDUEs today. Download the Simpson flier for full product details.
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.
Everything You Need to Know About Plywood in BC: A Guide from Kerrisdale Lumber
If you’re a builder, contractor, designer or DIY enthusiast looking for high-quality plywood in Vancouver, BC, you’ve probably realized there’s more to choosing the right plywood than just picking the cheapest board.
If you’re a builder, contractor, designer or DIY enthusiast looking for high-quality plywood in Vancouver, you’ve probably realized there’s more to choosing the right plywood than just picking the cheapest board. At Kerrisdale Lumber, we carry a wide variety of plywood products suited for different applications across Vancouver and the Lower Mainland. Let’s walk through what you need to know so your next build is strong, durable, and aesthetically pleasing.
What Is Plywood & Why Does it Matter
We stock a wide selection of plywood products designed for structural, decorative, and concrete forming applications. Our plywood comes from trusted Canadian suppliers like Westlam Industries, Sevona, and Richply, ensuring strength, durability, and compliance with Canadian building codes.
Here’s a closer look at the main types of plywood:
Structural Sheathing Plywood
Ideal for roofing, flooring and wall construction. These CDX-rated panels are moisture-resistant and built for Vancouver’s climate, making them a reliable choice for framing and exterior sheathing.
Interior Finishing Plywood
Perfect for cabinetmakers, millworkers, and designers. We stock smooth-finish panels such as Arauco Radiata Pine, prized for its clean appearance and consistency. Use it for cabinetry, furniture, or decorative wall paneling.
Form Plywood (MDO & HDO)
Available in multiple grades, our Medium Density Overlay (MDO) and High Density Overlay (HDO) panels are engineered for concrete forming. They deliver smooth finishes, durability, and multiple reuses. Our inventory includes trusted formwork panels from Westlam (including Crown 43, a high-performance, high-reuse forming panel), Sevona (dependable panels in both standard and premium finishes), and Swanson (versatile panels for general formwork and engineered applications in HDO, MDO, and reuse-rated options).
Specialty & Architectural Plywood
For custom builds and design-focused projects, we carry architectural-grade plywood for smooth overlays and precision construction. These panels are ideal for exposed plywood applications in both residential and commercial spaces.
What to Look for When Buying Plywood in Vancouver
When sourcing plywood locally, here are key specs and attributes to pay attention to:
Grade & Rating
Ensure panels are rated (ex. CDX for structural). For visible surfaces or finish work, higher grades matter for appearance.
Moisture Resistance
Vancouver’s damp climate means plywood needs to resist warping and decay. Look for moisture-resistant treatments or overlays (MDO, HDO) especially for outdoor or semi-exposed uses.
Supplier Reputation & Sourcing
Canadian-sourced plywood tends to meet local codes and standard climate conditions. Kerrisdale Lumber works with trusted names in the industry (Westlam, Sevona, Richply), assuring quality and compliance.
Thickness & Structural Requirements
Depending on span, load, or usage (ex. floor vs wall sheathing vs formwork), thickness and stiffness matter. Heavier loads or greater spans demand thicker, stiffer panels.
Finish & Appearance
For cabinetry or visible architectural panels, the smoothness of the overlay, the type of face veneer (ex. Radiata pine), and consistency matter.
Delivery & Local Logistics
Having a lumber yard in Vancouver with reliable delivery can save time and reduce costs. Look for suppliers that offer job-site delivery, crane truck access, and flexible logistics.
Plywood may seem like a commodity, but choosing the right type makes a big difference in performance, durability, and appearance, especially in Vancouver’s climate. Whether you need structural sheathing, concrete formwork, interior finishing, or architectural panels, Kerrisdale Lumber offers a broad selection, expert advice, and local delivery to make sure your build is successful.
If you’re planning a project and need help picking the right plywood, quantities, grades, or delivery, contact Kerrisdale Lumber - we’re here to support builds across Vancouver and the Lower Mainland every step of the way.
Why Local Builders Choose Kerrisdale Lumber for Vancouver Projects
When you’re building or renovating in Vancouver, the quality of your materials — and the reliability of your supplier — can make all the difference. That’s why so many contractors, tradespeople, and developers depend on Kerrisdale Lumber, a family-run Vancouver lumber yard with over a century of experience delivering building supplies across the Lower Mainland.
When you’re building or renovating in Vancouver, the quality of your materials — and the reliability of your supplier — can make all the difference. That’s why so many contractors, tradespeople, and developers depend on Kerrisdale Lumber, a family-run Vancouver lumber yard with over a century of experience delivering building supplies across the Lower Mainland.
A Legacy of Service & Community
Kerrisdale Lumber began as a small, community-focused business and has grown into a full-service building supply and lumber yard, but it has never lost its “local builder” roots.
With decades of hands-on industry experience, the team gets what your project needs. They’re not just sellers — they’re problem solvers and partners. The yard is located at 1253 W 76th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, easy to access near major transportation routes. A large 25,000 sq ft warehouse and ample yard space mean they hold inventory — so you aren’t left waiting for restocks.
Quality Materials for Vancouver Builds
At Kerrisdale, it’s not just about having stock — it’s about having the right stock. Builders know this matters when framing houses, doing multi-family wood-frame work, or tackling complex renovations.
Premium J-Grade SPF Lumber: Straight, kiln-dried, and ready to use — ideal for precision framing, reducing waste and labour time.
Engineered Wood Products: Including LVL, LSL, PSL, I-joists, glulam beams — for when strength, long spans, or structural integrity matter most.
Full Range of Building Supplies: Forming, framing, insulation, finishing, hardware, connectors, fasteners, and more — a one-stop shop for your project.
Services That Make a Difference
It isn't just the materials — it’s the services that turn a lumber yard into a project partner.
Estimating & Material Takeoffs: Send your plans and get precise material lists fast — helps avoid over-ordering or shortages.
Custom Engineered Wood Layouts: For complex builds, Kerrisdale works with suppliers such as Weyerhaeuser and Taiga Forest Products to produce engineered layouts that match your design specs.
Prefinishing & Prepped Materials: Save time on-site by ordering pre-finished materials ready for immediate installation.
Reliable Delivery: Their in-house fleet (knuckle-boom crane trucks, flat decks, box trucks, pickups) means fast, safe deliveries — even to tight or challenging job sites.
Special & Hard-to-Find Orders: If you need something unusual, the Kerrisdale team will track it down for you.
Whether you’re a general contractor, a framing crew, a developer working on a multi-family project, or a homeowner doing a major renovation, Kerrisdale Lumber delivers more than just wood — they deliver trust, quality, reliability, and partnership. For your next build in Vancouver or the Lower Mainland, you’ll find everything you need — and people who care — at Kerrisdale.
Need materials or expert guidance? We’re here to help.
Visit 1253 West 76th Ave, Vancouver BC
(604) 261-4274 • lumbersales@kerrisdalumber.com
Get a free online quote today using our Quick Quote Tool
How to Choose the Right Lumber & Engineered Wood for Vancouver Builds
Selecting the right lumber and building materials for your project can have a huge impact on build quality, structural integrity, cost, and schedule. If you’re working on a build in Vancouver — whether it’s a single-family home, multi-family wood-frame project, or renovation — knowing what to ask for and where to source it matters. Kerrisdale Lumber is here to help with the expertise, materials, and services to get it right.
Selecting the right lumber and building materials for your project can have a huge impact on build quality, structural integrity, cost, and schedule. If you’re working on a build in Vancouver — whether it’s a single-family home, multi-family wood-frame project, or renovation — knowing what to ask for and where to source it matters. Kerrisdale Lumber is here to help with the expertise, materials, and services to get it right.
Understanding Lumber Grades: SPF vs. J-Grade
SPF & Standard Framing Lumber: Often used for general framing and structural work — a cost-effective choice for standard builds.
J-Grade Premium SPF: For projects needing higher precision, straightness, and minimal waste. This is especially valuable when framing architectural details, interior walls, or load-bearing structures where accuracy matters.
Benefits of choosing J-Grade:
Less time spent sorting and discarding warped boards
Straight, square, kiln-dried lumber — ready for immediate use
Better fit, fewer callbacks, less labour waste
When Engineered Wood Makes Sense
For more demanding or complex builds — like multi-family housing, large-span floor/roof systems, or projects requiring seismic stability — engineered wood can outperform traditional lumber. Kerrisdale Lumber offers:
LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber): Ideal for beams, headers, and rafters — strong, dimensionally stable, and capable of carrying heavy loads.
LSL (Laminated Strand Lumber) & PSL (Parallel Strand Lumber): Excellent for rim boards, sill plates, long-span beams, and columns. PSL in particular supports large loads and long spans.
I-Joists: Lightweight, stable, and perfect for floors and roofs where long spans and minimal deflection matter.
Glulam Beams: Strong structural beams that also offer aesthetic appeal, often used in exposed timber designs. Great for open-concept spaces or architectural features.
Planning for Vancouver’s Climate and Building Needs
Because Vancouver’s climate can be damp and variable, and many builds must meet strict structural and seismic standards, material choice matters. At Kerrisdale:
All materials are sourced and stocked with local climate conditions in mind — whether framing lumber for a house, beams for a multi-family project, or engineered wood for long-span support.
For multi-family or larger residential developments, Kerrisdale offers tailored supply and logistics services — including anchor tie-down systems for seismic safety and on-time deliveries to keep complex projects on schedule.
How to Order from Kerrisdale Lumber
Send us your plans — our estimating team will do a material takeoff and supply list.
Choose your materials — whether premium SPF, J-Grade, or engineered wood, we’ll help you choose what’s best for your project.
Request a quote — you’ll get a fast, detailed quote for all materials, including delivery.
Schedule delivery — with our crane-truck fleet and versatile delivery vehicles, we’ll get materials to your site when you need them.
Choosing the right lumber and engineered wood products is more than a matter of preference: it’s a strategic decision that affects build quality, efficiency, and long-term performance. With Kerrisdale Lumber as your local Vancouver partner, you get expert guidance, top-quality materials, and reliable delivery — all tailored to the demands of your project and the climate of the Lower Mainland.
Start your project today.
1253 West 76th Ave, Vancouver BC
(604) 261-4274 • lumbersales@kerrisdalumber.com
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