5 Engineered Wood Myths Busted
A popular choice for residential projects across North America, engineered wood offers perks and features solid wood seldom matches up to. However, despite their popularity, it is not uncommon to hear a myth or two about engineered wood every now and then. While many are harmless, quite a few of these myths can lead to people overlooking this strong and versatile option.
To balance the scales in its favor and ensure contractors and builders do not support fiction over fact, we have laid out common engineered wood myths and the reality behind them in this blog. Let’s set the record straight!
Myth #1: Engineered Wood Is A Cheap Wood Alternative
Fact: Manufactured to be a high-performing alternative to traditional wood, engineered wood is far from a budget knock-off. It is often stronger than all its counterparts and is effective in resisting knots and warping. You get a variety of product options too which include laminated veneer lumber (LVL), plywood, and I-joists – each of which can be manufactured as per your precise specifications, offering long-term stability, durability, and strength.
Myth #2: Engineered Wood Has A Low Shelf-Life
Truth: Durability redefined, engineered wood can last decades, provided you choose a reliable supplier. In fact, it can often exceed the lifespan of traditional wood in certain structural applications. Its longevity can be further extended with proper installation and maintenance practices.
What’s more, it is designed to resist shrinking, twisting, and bowing – qualities solid sawn lumber does not possess. You can even get engineered wood products that have been specifically treated to resist moisture – a major boon for construction projects that have to put up with Ontario’s changing weather.
Myth #3: Engineered Wood Is Not Environment-Friendly
Truth: The reality is starkly different. While traditional wood can contribute to deforestation, engineered wood helps in countering it. Made of the smaller pieces, veneers, and wood fibers of harvested logs, engineered wood prevents waste. The result? Less pressure on forests coupled with lower carbon emissions when compared to conventional building materials. Sourcing engineered wood products from sustainably managed forests further enhances their eco-friendliness.
Myth #4: Engineered Wood Is Unsuitable For Structural Applications
Truth: Quite the opposite. Engineered wood is a staple in residential projects. An integral part of structures such as beams, headers, rim boards, and floor and roof trusses – engineered wood provides the dimensional stability and consistent strength these structures need. Take for example LVL beams. These can easily span longer distances without relying on extra support. They do not sag easily either, allowing builders and architects to experiment with different layouts and designs.
Myth #5: Engineered Wood Is Used In Large-Scale Projects Only
Truth: The scale of the project does not matter. Engineered wood can be safely used for small builds as well. In fact, even homeowners and DIYers can use it for odd jobs such as repairs, renovations, additions, and at-home furniture projects. Their versatility ensures they can seamlessly blend into any project while enhancing its intrinsic strength with their key properties. So whether you are planning to build a new deck or finish up a basement, you can confidently rely on engineered wood to get the job done.
Conclusion: Choose Right With Fonthill Lumber Inc.
Engineered wood is not a second-rate material that should be your last resort. It is a smart, sustainable, and high-performance choice that can increase the durability and value of any residential build. So do not let myths prevent you from using a strong and versatile option.
If you want to make the most of engineered wood products, turn to Fonthill Lumber Inc. Our LVL beams, I-joists, and plywood are a class apart when it comes to strength and resilience. Each of our products is backed by decades of expertise. Contact us to get material selection assistance, bulk supply, exceptional service, and Canada-wide delivery.
