Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/1521495
J U N E 2 0 2 4 | 25 Engineered Wood Products P H OTO G R A P H Y BY CO O P ER & O' H A R A /CO U RT E S Y R EI M AG I N E A RC H I T EC T S Escalating demand and cutting-edge R&D is transforming Canada's engineered wood industry by NATALIE BRUCKNER T he forecast for the global engi- neered wood market between 2024 and 2031 indicates a sub- stantial upward trajectory. In Canada, this surge is notably fuelled by government initiatives, increased acceptance of engi- neered wood, and heightened education regarding its versatility. Rory Koska, program director of Alberta Wood WORKS!, agrees that the demand being seen is due in part to a significant surge in the acceptance and utilization of engineered wood, now widely recog- nized as a credible and sustainable complement to traditional materials. "It's no longer viewed as a boutique solution," emphasizes Koska. "We're wit- nessing a shift towards considering it a viable and reliable option, backed by education, data, and increased experience." Koska highlights the growing interest in resi- dential projects surpassing four storeys, where engineered wood offers both construction efficiency and design flexibility. Furthermore, its incorpo- ration into educational facilities and Indigenous community buildings underscores a commitment to holistic well-being and eco-conscious practices. Projects like Métis Crossing's community cen- tre and The Boutique Lodge in Smoky Lake, Alberta, showcase a blend of traditional methods like heavy timber and stud framing with newer engineered wood products such as glulam and engineered lumber. This combination serves as an excellent example of what can be achieved. As Koska says, understanding that engineered wood, when used in conjunction with other materials like steel and con- crete, can offer the most efficient and cost-effective building solutions. One of the most impactful developments, according to Shawn Keyes, executive director at WoodWorks BC/Canadian Wood Council, is the recent implementation of mass timber incentives by the City of Vancouver. Keyes explains, "This pol- icy offers an additional two or three storeys for mass timber projects over eight storeys, effectively incen- tivizing more sustainable construction practices." Shiver Me Timbers The Boutique Lodge, Smoky Lake, AB