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. 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

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, 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.

Blog Post Title Three

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. 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.