A Message from Country Lumber regarding COVID-19 November 16, 2021 What is SPF Lumber? SPF lumber typically refers to dimensional lumber or engineered wood derived from various coniferous trees in North America. SPF stands for spruce, pine, and fir, the three types of woods used to create this lumber. SPF lumber has several properties that make it a popular choice for various constriction projects and furniture framing. As leading providers of high-quality construction material solutions, the team at Country Lumber knows how important it is to choose the right materials for the job. That is why we have compiled some information detailing what SPF lumber is and some of its key benefits to help you determine if it is the right choice for your project. Learn about the differences between rough-sawn and planed lumber. Different Species of SPF Lumber SPF lumber is typically divided into two distinct species: eastern and western. Western species of SPF lumber originate from white spruce, Engelmann spruce, lodgepole pine, and alpine fir trees. Western SPF is often available in larger sizes due to the climate associated with these trees and the size of the logs they produce. Eastern SPF lumber originates from black, red, and white spruce, Jack pine, and balsam fir trees. This species tends to grow at a slower rate and is not as large as Western SPF but it features enhanced strength and durability. What is SPF Lumber used for? With exceptional durability, stability, and availability, SPF lumber is a popular choice for a variety of projects and industries. The most common applications for SPF lumber include residential, commercial, and industrial building construction. Other common applications include: · Building framing · Interior finishing · Prefabrication · Furniture framing · Crate construction · Railway ties What are the Benefits of SPF Lumber? SPF lumber typically features a high strength-to-weight ratio with relatively small and tight knots. It also features exceptional stability and superior gluing properties, making it one of the most stable and reliable choices on the market. Additional benefits include: · Enhanced paint and stain absorption for more even coverage. · Securely holds nails/screws. · Meets most building code requirements for fire safety and strength. · Great sound insulation. To learn more about our dimensional lumber products or to inquire about our other products, get in touch with the experts at Country Lumber. We can be reached through our online contact form and will be happy to help you find the perfect solution for your project. October 26, 2021 How to Choose the Right Interior Moulding When it comes to building a new home or remodeling an existing home, most builders tend to focus on larger materials and features during construction. While lumber, drywall, insulation, and stone are undoubtedly important, there are several smaller elements that should be accounted for as well. Among these elements, mouldings arguably have the largest impact on the aesthetic appeal of your home. The right moulding and trim products can provide a finished and complete look for your home’s interior while the wrong products can stick out and seem out of place. As leading providers of moulding and trim products, the team at Country Lumber knows how difficult it can be to choose the right option. That is why we have compiled some information to help you understand how to choose the right interior moulding products for your home. Learn how to install crown moulding. 3 Important Considerations When Choosing Moulding When choosing moulding and trim products for your home, it is important to consider the following elements: 1. THE LOCATION Mouldings and trim can be used in various locations throughout your home. The most common areas are floors, doors, windows, and ceilings, though some homes also use them around features like fireplaces and stairs. While mouldings around windows tend to be mostly decorative, trim used around doors and near floors will be subject to more frequent impacts and wear. That is why many homeowners will choose multiple products with a similar appearance but a different level of durability, using high-strength options near floors, doors, and other high-traffic areas. 2. THE MATERIAL The most common types of materials used in the construction of moulding products include MDF, Finger-Joint, softwood, and hardwood. Each of these materials feature different characteristics and price points, so it is important to determine which option works best for your needs and budget. You will also need to determine if you are planning on painting or staining your trim, as certain materials are a better choice for this than others. For example, hardwood and softwood mouldings are a better choice for staining than MDF. 3. THE STYLE Mouldings are available in a variety of different styles, each with different aesthetic features. Among these styles, modern, craftsman, and traditional tend to be the most popular. Modern mouldings tend to have little to no profile and look like a flat board. Craftsman and traditional mouldings tend to feature some layering of smaller pieces, making them more decorative. Be sure to consider which style works best for your intended theme, as moulding is meant to tie a room together and blend in with other features. To learn more about our selection of moulding, trim, and other building materials, get in touch with the experts at Country Lumber. We can be reached through our online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding our products. October 13, 2021 The Different Types of Plywood Lumber Plywood is a crucial material for construction projects of all sizes. Whether you are building a custom home or a large condo building, you will likely use some form of plywood during the construction process. Though most forms of plywood have a similar appearance, some types of plywood are more suitable for certain projects over others. As leading providers of plywood and other construction materials, the team at Country Lumber understands the importance of choosing the right material for the job. That is why our team has provided some information on the types of plywood we provide to help you choose the best option for your project. Learn about the differences between rough-sawn and planed lumber. What is Plywood? Plywood is a strong and inexpensive alternative to solid wood that is widely used in a variety of construction projects. It is manufactured with 3 or more layers of wood veneers (thin sheets of wood) that have been pressed or glued together. Each ply of wood is laid down with its grain running perpendicular to the one before it to help it maintain a high level of durability and strength. Plywood is available in a variety of different types, each with different properties, durability, and suitable uses. 4 Main Types of Plywood Plywood is available in many different types based on your project requirements. The following 4 types of plywood are among the most common: STANDARD SHEATHING Standard sheathing plywood is commonly used for floors, walls, and roofs. Standard sheathing is available in spruce or fir and can be purchased in various thicknesses based on your project requirements or local regulations. FORMPLY Formply is constructed with Douglas fir for enhanced strength and stiffness. As a structural plywood, it is overlaid on both sides with a resin-impregnated film that has been fused into the surface veneer under heat and pressure. The resulting surface is moisture resistant and suitable for use in concrete framework projects. OSB OSB (Oriented Strand Board) is an engineered wood product that is formed by layering strands or flakes of wood in specific orientations. OSB is mainly used for floor, wall, and roof sheathing. It is an economical option compared to standard plywood while retaining a high level of durability. SPECIALTY PLYWOOD In addition to fir and spruce, plywood can be crafted from a variety of specialty materials such as mahogany and maple. These specialty materials tend to be used for furniture and prominent wooden features for homes due to their enhanced durability and aesthetically pleasing appearance. To learn more about our selection of plywood products and other construction materials, get in touch with the team at Country Lumber. We can be reached through our online contact form or by phone at 604-533-4447 and will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding our products. September 21, 2021 What are Laminate Shingles? Roofing Also known as dimensional and architectural shingles, laminated shingles are one of the most popular and effective roofing materials on the market. Every laminated shingle is constructed from several layers of fibreglass, dipped in asphalt, and then coated with fire-resistant granules to ensure lasting durability in any environment. While conventional shingles are made in a “3-tab” style with only one tab shape and size, laminate shingles have many different shapes and sizes to give them a more dimensional appearance. As leading providers of roofing solutions, the team at Country Lumber understands how beneficial laminate shingles can be for most homes. That is why our team has compiled some information outlining what laminate shingles are and some of their key benefits to help you determine if they are the right choice for your needs. Learn how to choose the right roofing materials. 4 Benefits of Laminate Shingles Laminate shingles offer the following benefits for most homes regardless of their location: 1. ENHANCED CURB APPEAL While conventional shingles tend to all look the same, it is nearly impossible to find two laminate shingles with an identical appearance. By installing laminate shingles on your roof, you are choosing a product that provides a multi-dimensional and striking design. Some laminate shingles also imitate the appearance of cedar or slate, allowing you to maximize curb appeal regardless of the colour and style of your home. 2. LASTING DURABILITY When choosing roofing materials, it is always best to choose a proven option with exceptional durability. Laminate shingles feature several layers of asphalt to provide lasting resistance to hail, wind, and other severe weather conditions. Whether you live in an area with harsh winters or blistering summers, laminate shingles are up to the task. In addition to weather resistance, laminate shingles are also resistant to impacts, fire, and mold. 3. EXTENDED WARRANTIES While conventional shingles are available with warranties ranging from 10-25 years, laminate shingles feature warranties ranging from 30 to 50 years. This warranty ensures that your shingles are replaced in the event of failure, giving you total peace of mind. 4. LONG-TERM COST SAVINGS Laminate shingles provide more insulation and light deflection than standard shingles, reducing heat transference and lowering your heating/cooling costs. In addition to energy savings, laminate shingles can last for roughly 50 years and require less maintenance, offsetting their higher initial cost within a few years. To learn more about our roofing solutions and other products, get in touch with the experts at Country Lumber. We can be reached through our online contact form and will work with you to provide the perfect products for your needs. September 17, 2021 How to Choose the Right Roofing Materials Roofing Your home’s roof is as crucial as the foundation it is built upon. A well-built roof can keep your home safe from extreme weather conditions, moisture, and insects, but no roof will last forever. If it is time to replace your roof, it can be difficult to know where to start. When it comes to choosing materials for your roof, there is a lot more to consider than aesthetics and curb appeal. As leading providers of roofing solutions, the team at Country Lumber understands how difficult it can be to determine the right solution for your needs. That is why we have provided some information detailing how to choose the right roofing materials for your home. Learn how to choose the right siding for your home. 4 Factors to Consider When Choosing Roofing Materials When choosing roofing materials for your home, it is important to consider the following elements to ensure the best results: 1. THE DESIGN OF YOUR HOME The materials you choose will largely depend on the design/architectural style of your home. For example, laminate shingles can be installed on many types of homes, while wooden tiles are a better choice for older units. In addition to the design, you will need to consider the colour of your siding. Bright siding can be accentuated with dark roofing materials, while neutral-coloured siding can benefit from brown or cream-coloured roofing materials. Considering the design and colour of your home will help to ensure that your roof adds to the curb appeal instead of subtracting from it. 2. YOUR TYPICAL CLIMATE & WEATHER CONDITIONS Certain materials are more resistant to moisture or extreme heat than others. To ensure lasting durability, be sure to consider your typical weather conditions. If you live in an area with consistently heavy rain, cedar and metal may be a better choice for your roof than laminate due to their increased resistance to moisture. The materials you choose for your roof will also affect your insulation and airflow, increasing or decreasing heating and cooling costs over time. 3. TOTAL COSTS As is the case with siding and other home materials, your budget will play a major role in the products you choose. When examining your options, be sure to consider the total purchase price of the materials, the cost of labour, and budget for any unexpected costs. 4. LONGEVITY AND MAINTENANCE All roofing materials have a different rated lifespan, so it is important to choose the right option for your future plans. For example, if you plan on moving in the next 5 years, you can choose a more cost-effective material like laminate. If you plan on staying in your home for more than 10 years, invest in a durable material that requires a low amount of maintenance over time. To learn more about our selection of roofing materials, get in touch with the experts at Country Lumber. We can be reached at 604-533-4447 or through our online contact form and will be happy to help you choose the best option for your home. August 19, 2021 How to Choose the Right Siding for Your Home Siding Siding can make or break the appearance of your home regardless of the size, age, or location. In addition to aesthetics, siding can affect the energy consumption of your home, your maintenance requirements, and your resale value if you decide to sell in the future. If you are thinking of replacing your siding soon, it can be difficult to determine which option is right for your needs. As leading providers of siding for all types of homes, the team at Country Lumber understands this challenge. That is why we have provided some information detailing how to choose the right siding for your home. Learn about the benefits of vinyl siding to see if it is the right choice for your home. Factors to Consider When Choosing Siding When looking at siding for your home, it is worth considering the following factors to ensure that you are choosing the right option: AESTHETICS The right siding can drastically enhance your curb appeal, making a great impression on guests, neighbours, and passing drivers. On the other side of the scale, the wrong siding can make your home look outdated and unappealing. It is important to consider how the siding you choose will look on your home. Be sure to choose an option that goes well with the design, paint colour, and natural features of your property. Options like white vinyl siding and natural wood siding tend to work well with most homes, but proper planning can help you choose a more unique option for your preferences and home requirements. MAINTENANCE Some siding materials last longer than others depending on how well they are maintained. While some siding materials deliver great performance and durability with minimal maintenance, other materials require regular care and cleaning to ensure that they remain viable. For example, vinyl requires less maintenance than wood, but well-maintained wood siding can last much longer. Be sure to consider how much cleaning and repairs your siding will require over time to ensure that you are not choosing a material that you will not be able to maintain. EFFICIENCY Keeping your home warm in winter and cool in summer can be difficult and expensive. This is especially true if your siding is letting too much air in or out of your home. To counter the heat loss or gain, your HVAC system will need to work harder and consume more energy in the process. The right siding can make temperature control a more manageable task regardless of your typical weather conditions. This will increase your comfort and save you money over time. To learn more about our selection of siding solutions and other home products, get in touch with the team at Country Lumber. We can be reached through our online contact form and will work with you to determine the ideal solution for your specific needs. August 17, 2021 The Differences Between Rough-Sawn and Planed Lumber Timbers When it comes to timbers, there are so many options available and considerations to keep in mind that it can be nearly impossible to make a final decision. Timber can be expensive, so purchasing the wrong type can be a costly mistake. That is why knowing the differences between rough-sawn and planed lumber is crucial for choosing the best option for your project and budget. As leading providers of timbers and other building materials, Country Lumber understands the importance of choosing the right materials for the job. That is why we have provided some information outlining the key characteristics of each type of lumber to help users make an informed choice. Learn about the benefits of engineered wood. Rough-Sawn Lumber Characteristics Rough-sawn lumber is the most basic form of wood preparation after the tree has been felled. This type of timber has been cut down to size with a circular saw without receiving any further treatment. Due to this lack of sanding and other finishing work, the sides and edges of each piece of lumber are left with a rough and unfinished surface. Due to the simplicity of this preparation method, rough-sawn lumber is almost always cheaper than planed lumber. This makes it a great choice for jobs where the finish of the wood is not important such as internal frames or beams beneath flooring. Rough-sawn lumber can also be a great choice if the buyer has all the equipment needed to sand and finish the lumber, as this will take more time but save a considerable amount of money. Planed Lumber Characteristics Planed lumber, also known as dressed lumber, is timber that has been cut down to size and passed through a planer to remove the rough outer layer. This planing process was once performed entirely by hand, but modern machinery can attain similar results in a fraction of the time. After the planing process is complete, the timber is left with a smooth, splinter-free finish on one or more faces. The grain and other details of the wood will also be visible, resulting in an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Planed lumber is ideal for jobs that require flush joints between separate pieces of wood such as shelves, counters, and any object that would benefit from enhanced aesthetics. Planed lumber is more expensive due to the extra work involved in production, but it saves the user a significant amount of time. It should be noted that planed lumber is typically available in PAR and PSE configurations. These stand for “planed all around” and “planed single edge” respectively and refer to the number of smooth surfaces on the finished lumber. For assistance choosing the right timber products for your project, get in touch with the team at Country Lumber. We can be reached through our online contact form and will work with you to provide the perfect solution for your specific needs. July 27, 2021 Benefits of Cedar Fences Fencing Are you looking to build a new fence for your home? If you are looking for a natural and appealing option that can suit the needs of most living spaces, wood fencing is a great option. With so many styles and materials available, it can be difficult to determine which option is best for your needs. As leading providers of fencing products for all types of homes, the team at Country Lumber understands the challenge of choosing the right materials. That is why our team has compiled a list of benefits of cedar fences to help you determine if they are the right choice for your home. Learn how to recognize the signs you need a new fence. 3 Reasons to Choose a Cedar Fence Cedar fences are a versatile option that can fit the needs of most homes and other properties. When you choose a cedar fence, you are choosing a material that offers the following benefits: 1. DURABILITY AND LONGEVITY Cedar is exceptionally durable, allowing it to resist harsh weather conditions and impacts that would damage other varieties of wood. Fences constructed from cedar maintain their shape and appearance longer than any other type of lumber, making it a great choice for your forever home. Cedar can change its moisture content to match the environment it is in, minimizing the need for maintenance and ensuring durability in any season. While cedar can be more expensive than some varieties of wood, the durability, longevity, and minimal maintenance requirements more than make up for the cost. 2. CURB APPEAL The design and general aesthetic of your fence can have a significant positive or negative effect on the curb appeal of your home. Cedar fences are aesthetically pleasing and can match nearly any design or colour scheme. Whether you choose to leave the cedar as is, have it stained, or paint it, you can be sure that your fence will look great. 3. PRIVACY AND COMFORT Cedar fences feature durable boards that form a solid wooden structure without any large holes or gaps. This ensures optimal privacy and sound insulation, allowing you to relax in your yard with minimal noise. Cedar fences can be cut to any length you wish, ensuring that you have as much privacy as you need. In addition to keeping prying eyes out of your yard, cedar fences are great for blocking wind and natural air pockets. This helps to keep your yard cooler in summer and warmer in winter, keeping you comfortable throughout the year. To learn more about cedar fences and our other fencing products, get in touch with the team at Country Lumber. We can be reached at 604-533-4447 and will work with you to deliver the perfect solution for your needs. July 20, 2021 What to Consider Before Building a Deck Decking If you are considering building a deck for your backyard, there are many factors to consider before construction begins. Understanding what these factors are is crucial for ensuring that your deck is perfect for your home and family. From the location to your budget, every factor plays a vital role in determining how your deck will be constructed. As leading providers of decking products and quality materials, Country Lumber knows what it takes to build the perfect deck. That is why our team has provided some information on what to consider before building a deck to ensure the best possible results. Learn how to replace deck boards. 5 Things to Consider When Building a Deck Before building a deck, it is worth considering the following: 1. THE PURPOSE AND FUNCTION While planning your deck, most of the design decisions you make will impact future elements and choices. To ensure that your design matches the function, it is important to think about the purpose of your deck. Whether it will be used for family dinners, entertaining, or an outdoor garden, this purpose should be determined before construction begins. 2. THE LOCATION The location of your deck will vary greatly based on the size of your property and the layout of your home. If you have several placement options, you will need to consider a few different factors. The proximity of the deck to various home entrances, privacy options, and views will all influence the final location of your deck. 3. TOTAL BUDGET Your total budget will influence every aspect of your deck from the materials used to the final size. The amount of funds you have available will also determine if you will be building it by yourself or hiring a contractor to handle the job. 4. THE MATERIALS AND DESIGN The materials used to construct your deck will have a substantial impact on the durability and design. From pressure-treated woods to premium hardwoods, there are many different materials to choose from based on their price and appearance. In addition to the materials used, your design will be impacted by the colour of your home, the size of your yard, your fence, and other elements. 5. CODES AND SAFETY Whether you are building your deck yourself or are hiring a contractor, it is worth learning about the relevant codes and permits required for the project. This can save you money and ensure that your deck is safe for you and your family. To learn more about our selection of decking products and other materials, get in touch with the Country Lumber team. We can be reached at 604-533-4447 and are ready to answer any questions you may have. June 22, 2021 How to Replace an Exterior Door Doors Exterior doors are a key feature for any home, especially for the front entrance. Doors make an immediate impression on guests as they are often the first thing they see or interact with when entering your living space. Exterior doors are often subject to heavy use and can be a common site for impacts, especially when moving large objects in or out of the house. After some time has passed, your door may become worn or damaged and need to be replaced. Though the replacement process often appears to be simple, it can be complicated. That is why the team at Country Lumber has provided some information on how to replace an exterior door. Keeping to a set process will ensure optimal efficiency, safety, and results. Learn how to change a doorknob. Steps to Replace an Exterior Door To ensure the best possible fit when replacing your exterior door, perform the following steps: 1. REMOVE THE OLD DOOR AND DOOR HARDWARE Remove the doorknob and lock systems from your old door as they will not serve any purpose in a door that isn’t attached anywhere. Remove all screws and pins for all door hardware and pull them out of their slots. Once this hardware is removed, use a hammer or screwdriver to pop the hinge pins out of the hinges. Start from the bottom and work your way up, pulling the door out once all pins are removed. 2. TRANSFER OR REPLACE THE HINGES Unscrew each hinge from the old door and fasten these to the new door. If you are completely replacing the door hinges, you should remove the old hinges from the door frame and the door, replacing them with the new hinges. 3. MEASURE AND PREPARE THE NEW DOOR Measure the door and check the “handedness” to ensure that it aligns with your dimensions and preferences. Install the hinge pins to the door and ensure that the hinges are installed in the door frame. 4. HANG THE NEW DOOR AND CHECK THE FIT Lift the door and line the hinge pins up with the hinge placements in the door frame. Line up the pins and tap them back into place with a hammer. Once the door is placed on the hinges, ensure that the knob placement lines up with the strike plate on the door frame. Ensure that the door does not drag, does not leave too much space in any area, and that it is centred in the frame. 5. INSTALL THE NEW HARDWARE Reinstall the doorknob (or install a new one) by pushing the latch into the side of the door and threading the doorknob axle through it. You may need to adjust the length of the latch if it does not fit or line up properly. Attach the opposite side of the doorknob and then fasten each side in place with the screws. From here, reinstall any locks or other hardware. To learn more about how to replace an exterior door or to learn more about our products, get in touch with the Country Lumber team. We can be reached through our online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have. Older Posts APPLY FOR CREDIT 22538 FRASER HIGHWAY LANGLEY, BC V2Z 2T8 (604) 533-4447 1-866-533-4447 SALES@COUNTRYLUMBER.CA CREDIT CARD AUTHORIZATION HOURS OF OPERATION EFFECTIVE MAY 19, 2020 MONDAY–FRIDAY: 6AM – 5:00PM SATURDAY: 8AM - 4:30PM CLOSED SUNDAY AND STAT HOLIDAYS CLOSED SATURDAY SEPT. 25TH - INVENTORY © 2021 COUNTRY LUMBER LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.