Parallel Strand Lumber has been reshaping the way builders approach structural design for a long time.
Used in both post-and-beam and conventional construction, it delivers the strength and consistency of engineered lumber while still capturing the natural appeal of wood.
And the best part? It’s manufactured right here in B.C.
What is Parallel Strand Lumber?
Parallel strand lumber (PSL) is an engineered wood product made from long, parallel wood strands bonded together with structural adhesives. It’s strong, uniform, and dimensionally stable, ideal for high-load applications like beams, headers, and columns in post-and-beam construction.
Why is Parallel Strand Lumber better than solid wood?
Since Parallel Strand Lumber is made from many layers of wood strands glued together, it doesn’t have the same weak spots that regular wood does, like knots or cracks. This means PSL beams can carry heavy loads and span long distances without bending or breaking. Builders love it for big projects like bridges, tall buildings, and long roof supports.
PSL also resists warping. Every strand is placed with care, so the finished product doesn’t shrink, twist, or bow over time. That makes construction faster and more predictable.
Why is Parallel Strand Lumber better for the environment?
Parallel Strand Lumber uses smaller, fast-growing trees that are often overlooked by traditional lumber mills. By turning these trees into high-strength beams, PSL helps reduce waste and makes better use of natural resources.
Why are builders choosing Parallel Strand Lumber engineered lumber products?
Contractors and architects love Parallel Strand Lumber because it’s versatile. It can be used for beams, columns, headers, and other parts of a building that need to hold a lot of weight. It also has a warm, natural wood look, so it works well for exposed designs where you can see the structure inside a home or building. It’s both beautiful and functional — the best of both worlds.
What Parallel Strand Lumber products are right for me?
Weyerhauser’s Trus Joist Parallam PSL columns and beams are strong and consistent and are manufactured right here in B.C. Parallam PSL products are manufactured using veneer strands, allowing a significant percentage of each log to become a high-grade structural member.
Parallam PSL products come in a variety of sizes and lengths, provide superior strength and performance, are visually appealing in exposed applications, and come with a comprehensive product warranty.
Standard Building Supplies has a team of TrusJoist engineered wood designers ready to assist you with your next project. From single member sizing to full floor system designs, Standard has your covered. Contact any of our locations to speak with a design specialist today.
