North America Glue-Laminated Timber Market

North America Glue-Laminated Timber Market Size and Share:

The North America glue-laminated timber market size was valued at 430,590 Cubic Metres in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach 439,810 Cubic Metres by 2033. The North America glue-laminated timber market share is expanding rapidly due to increasing demand for sustainable construction materials, technological advancements in prefabrication, and the growing adoption of mass timber in eco-friendly and energy-efficient building projects, supported by government incentives and consumer preference for environmentally responsible alternatives.

The North America glue-laminated timber market analysis is exhibiting growth due to increasing demands for sustainable and high-performance construction materials, as environmental concerns and stringent building regulations force architects and developers to adopt engineered wood products with reduced carbon footprints. With the rising preference in mass timber construction for residential, commercial, and industrial projects, glue-laminated timber is attaining wider acceptance as a viable durable and aesthetically pleasing alternative to steel and concrete-based structures. For instance, in June 2024, Freres Engineered Wood expanded its product offerings, including 9’ and 10’ plywood panels, 1.5” thick laminated veneer lumber (LVL) products, and new appearance grades for Mass Ply, responding to market demand. Additionally, technological development in adhesive formulation and lamination processes has resulted in the further enhancement of the structural integrity, fire resistance, and moisture durability of glue-laminated timber, which renders it suitable for large-scale application in bridges, public buildings, and multi-story residential complexes. Growth in urbanization as well as North America based infrastructural spending increase the requirements of cost effective yet lightweight materials. Moreover, improving consumer education around the convenience that prefabricated wooden structure may offer drives growth in usage for glue-laminated timber with modular or offsite projects.

The growing importance of ecofriendly building certifications, including leadership in energy and environmental design (LEED) and WELL standards, is motivating construction companies to embrace sustainable materials such as glue-laminated timber in their projects to achieve the required regulatory and corporate sustainability. The growth of government incentives and subsidies for using renewable resources in the construction sector further supports market expansion, with developers looking for environmentally responsible alternatives to reduce embodied carbon emissions. For example, in September 2023, The Thunder Bay CEDC started the study to consider how mass timber could be incorporated, specifically cross-laminated timber (CLT), into the infrastructure of mining sector companies, reflecting a commitment to sustainable industrial practices.  Furthermore, modern architecture places more emphasis on biophilic design and natural aesthetics, driving the demand for engineered wood products, which include glue-laminated timber for its strength as well as aesthetics. The swift pace of development in computer-aided design and precision manufacturing is also now allowing customized production of glue-laminated timber components with much less material waste and reduced construction timelines. The further investment in research and development (R&D) in engineered wood solutions is also encouraging innovation. As such, glue-laminated timber becomes a competitive choice for sustainable and resilient infrastructure projects across North America.

North America Glue-Laminated Timber Market Trends:

Growing Adoption of Mass Timber Construction

Mass timber construction continues to become popular in North America, further stimulating demand for glue-laminated timber due to its ecologic and high performance, substituting the old usage of materials of steel and concrete. Due to the construction-time-saving abilities that glue-laminated timber avails while building, enhances the structural efficiency and lowers overall costs, architects, and developers also adopt the element in their major commercial, institutional, and residential projects. There is further fuel to this trend from the rising awareness of the environmental benefits of using engineered wood, including reduced carbon emissions and sustainable forest management. Hybrid construction methods are also on the rise where glue-laminated timber is integrated with other building materials to optimize strength and durability, opening its application to high-rise structures. Increased government patronage for the mass timber activities and policy directions towards sustainable approaches to construction make glue-laminated timber still more widely proliferate in mass urban development structures across North America. According to the reports, in November 2023, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers directs the integration of mass timber to be assessed at the conceptual or design stage on all new vertical construction, highlighting the government's commitment to sustainable materials in federal infrastructure.

Advancements in Digital Manufacturing and Prefabrication

This fast pace of developments in digital manufacturing and prefabrication is dramatically changing the landscape of North America's glue-laminated timber market as precision engineering and automation enhance the quality of the products, minimize waste, and increase construction efficiency. Computer-aided design software and advanced robotic machining have become tools to allow for highly customized glue-laminated timber components tailored to the specific requirements for structural and aesthetic needs. Further increasing efficiency in the industry is offsite prefabrication, whereby engineered timber panels and beams are pre-cut and assembled in controlled environments before transportation to construction sites. This reduces labor costs, minimizes material wastage, and shortens project timelines, making glue-laminated timber a cost-effective choice for modern building projects. Improved adhesives and lamination techniques are also improving the performance of prefabricated timber, which further ensures durability, fire resistance, and moisture protection in varied climatic conditions.

Expansion of Sustainable and Carbon-Neutral Building Initiatives

The expansion of the glue-laminated timber market is being prompted by growing emphasis on sustainability and carbon-neutral construction practices. Regulatory bodies and the industry leadership are nudging infrastructure projects to employ renewable materials, and construction firms are seeking engineered wood solutions that offer low embodied carbon with long-term energy efficiency in response to concerns over climate change and the environmental impact of traditional building materials. Sequestration of carbon throughout the lifecycle of glue-laminated timber is thus seen to be aligned with corporate sustainability goals and international commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the built environment. Further, net-zero energy buildings, and the inclusion of eco-conscious design principles are accelerating demand for glue-laminated timber in green architecture. Consumer and investor demand for eco-friendly real estate continues to increase the appeal of glue-laminated timber as a material for developers in both residential, commercial, and institutional buildings.

North America Glue-Laminated Timber Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the North America glue-laminated timber market, along with forecasts at the country and regional levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on end-use and application.

Analysis by End-Use:

• Floor Beams
• Window and Door Header
• Trusses and Supporting Columns
• Roof Beams
• Others

The floor beams segment is leading in 2024, with a 40.0% market share. This can be attributed to the growing use of engineered wood in structural applications because of the superior strength, durability, and environmental benefits associated with it. Floor beams produced from glulam offer a high load-bearing capacity while being lightweight in structure, making them ideal for modern residential and commercial buildings. The choice of the glue-laminated timber floor beam for architects and builders is increasing for several reasons. It is an economical choice due to less wastage of materials, and this is effective in taking long spans without much support column. The reason for its widespread use is growing demand for environmentally friendly construction material, as this is manufactured using renewable resources with a lower carbon footprint than a steel or concrete alternative. This trend is expected to continue since construction regulations have started emphasizing eco-friendly building materials.

Analysis by Application:

• New Construction
• Replacement

The most significant market share in the North America glue-laminated timber market belongs to the new construction segment, that accounted for 65.8% in 2024. Growth in this segment is associated with increased applications of mass timber in modern construction. Glue-laminated timber offers superior strength, flexibility, and sustainability when compared to traditional building materials. The ease with which glue-laminated timber can be installed and meets stringent building codes is compelling developers and contractors to integrate this product into new residential, commercial, and institutional projects. There is also heightened popularity in obtaining green building certifications and sustainable construction initiatives, increasing the demand for glulam in new construction. High fire resistance, excellent seismic performance, and aesthetic appeal of the material have amplified adoption in structural applications. As urbanisation and infrastructure development projects continue to grow, especially in the fastest-growing metropolitan areas, demand for glue-laminated timber in new construction will continue to rise, further expanding its preferred position for architects and builders.

Country Analysis:

• United States
• Canada
• Mexico

The United States dominates the North America glue-laminated timber market, holding an 84.8% share in 2024, driven by strong construction activity and escalating demand for sustainable building materials. The country’s focus on ecofriendly construction and energy-efficient buildings has accelerated the adoption of engineered wood products like glue-laminated timber. The expansion of residential and commercial infrastructure, alongside government incentives promoting sustainable forestry and eco-friendly materials, is further boosting the market. The use of glue-laminated timber in large-scale public projects, such as bridges, schools, and government buildings, is increasing due to its cost-effectiveness, durability, and reduced environmental impact. Additionally, advancements in prefabrication and modular construction techniques are enhancing the market potential for glulam in the U.S. The presence of major manufacturers and ongoing investments in production facilities are also contributing to market growth, ensuring a steady supply of high-quality glulam products for various construction needs.

Competitive Landscape:

The North America glue-laminated timber market is extremely competitive with numerous players that are focusing on innovation in technology, product differentiation, and sustainability initiatives to increase their market share. Manufacturers are investing in the most advanced adhesive formulations and precision engineering techniques to improve the structural integrity, fire resistance, and moisture durability of the products. Companies are merging and acquiring because strategic partnerships to increase their output capacities and scale of operation also ensure a better supply chain related to raw material procurement. To gain sustainable accreditations within the industry becomes an important prerequisite for the very same reasons cited above as they are targeting "ecofriendly" or environmentally conscious customers and complying with the rules issued by such countries. Companies are responding to the increased demand for prefabricated and mass timber construction solutions by enhancing the efficiency of manufacturing, cutting costs, and providing customization options through digital platforms and automation.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the North America glue-laminated timber market with detailed profiles of all major companies.

Latest News and Developments:

• In September 2024, Freres Engineered Wood’s Mass Ply products are being featured in Cascada, a luxury hotel in Portland. This hybrid mass timber development, aiming for LEED Platinum certification, incorporates sustainable design elements, including locally sourced materials, green roofs, and solar panels, highlighting eco-friendly building practices.
• In May 2024, Timberlab Holdings, Inc. announced the acquisition of American Laminators, a leading Oregon-based glue-laminated timber manufacturer. This acquisition enhances Timberlab's ability to offer comprehensive mass timber solutions and expands its production facilities in Drain and Swisshome, Oregon, strengthening its position in the North American market for sustainable building materials.
• In March 2024, Rosboro, North America’s largest manufacturer of glued-laminated timber (GLT), partnered with Stiles Machinery, Kallesoe, and System TM to launch a new GLT factory in Springfield, Oregon. The collaboration aims to enhance production efficiency, providing high-quality, cost-effective framing solutions and supporting growth in the North America mass timber industry.

North America Glue-Laminated Timber Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the North America glue-laminated timber market from 2019-2033.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the North America glue-laminated timber market.
• Porter's Five Forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the North America glue-laminated timber industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.