Engineered Wood Market Overview

Engineering wood, also known as composite wood or man-made wood, refers to a category of wood products that are manufactured by binding or fixing strands, particles, fibers, or veneers of wood together with adhesives or other methods. It is designed to have improved properties and performance compared to natural wood.

Based on type, the Engineering Wood market is segmented into Plywood, Laminated Veneer, I-beams, Glulam, Oriented Strand Boards, Fiberboard, and Cross Laminated Timber. The plywood segment accounts for the largest share as it is a highly adaptable form of engineering wood and is manufactured by cross-laminating veneer sheets by attaching them with water-resistant adhesives by applying intense heat and pressure. It has better consistent rigidity, is comparatively less expensive, and comes in bigger sizes than hardwood. Increasing awareness regarding the product these properties, have resulted in high adoption of the product in various countries across the globe and this is expected to drive revenue growth of this segment over the forecast period.

Engineered Wood Demand Analysis:

In terms of applications, the market is segmented into Residential and Commercial (Non-Residential). The residential segment is expected to dominate the market owing to the rising need for durable, artistic, and low-maintenance materials for closely packed apartments and houses. The growing need for the aesthetic appeal of hardwood floors will drive the demand for Engineering Wood in the upcoming years.

Asia Pacific is the largest market for Engineering Wood driven by rapid urbanization, increasing construction activities, and rising demand for eco-friendly building materials. Countries like China, Japan, and Australia have emerged as major consumers and manufacturers of engineering wood products. North America is also a prominent player in the Engineering Woods market owing to the extensive use of Engineering Wood in residential and commercial construction due to its sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and easy installation.

Rising Demand for Engineering Wood in the Construction Industry

Engineering wood is designed to minimize the natural flaws and weaknesses of solid wood. By using layers of wood veneers or fibers arranged in different directions and bonding them with adhesives, engineering wood becomes more stable, less prone to warping or splitting, and highly durable.

These types of materials are typically more affordable than solid wood. By utilizing lower-grade or recycled wood materials for the core layers and only using high-quality wood for the top layer, engineering wood provides cost savings without compromising quality.

Engineering wood maximizes the use of timber resources by using smaller, fast-growing trees and by utilizing wood waste and by-products. It reduces deforestation and helps conserve natural forests. Additionally, the manufacturing process consumes less energy and emits fewer greenhouse gases compared to solid wood production.

Oriented Strand Board (OSB), and Laminated Veneer are the types of Engineering Woods that can be altered to have specific properties, such as enhanced strength, fire resistance, or moisture resistance, making them suitable for a wide range of applications in construction, furniture, and flooring.

Engineering wood products can be manufactured in larger sizes and longer lengths than solid wood. This allows for more versatile and efficient construction, reducing the need for additional support structures.

Limited ability to withstand moisture

Due to its composition of multiple layers bonded together, engineering wood can be more susceptible to damage from moisture. If exposed to excessive humidity, water leaks, or prolonged contact with water, engineering wood may warp, swell, or delaminate. This can compromise its structural integrity and aesthetics. Engineering wood is generally not recommended for outdoor applications unless specifically designed and treated for such purposes. Exposure to weather conditions, such as rain, sunlight, and temperature fluctuations, can cause the material to degrade over time.

Proper installation techniques, moisture barriers, and protective finishes must be employed to prevent the moisture enter the wood. Regular maintenance and preventive measures are necessary to safeguard engineering wood from moisture-related problems.