A recent market research report by Canada Wood Group indicates a shift in the construction sector, with post and beam construction gaining ground on prefabricated construction, particularly 2×4 systems. This trend can be partially attributed to the lumber price fluctuations witnessed in 2021-2022. The surge in North American lumber prices disproportionately impacted 2×4 construction, as the dimensional lumber (S-P-F) used in these systems saw a steeper price increase compared to domestic and European wood sources commonly utilized in post and beam structures. Additionally, post and beam designs may inherently require less lumber volume compared to 2×4 framed buildings, further contributing to cost advantages during periods of high lumber prices.
In response, Canada Wood partnered with the Japan 2×4 Home Builders Association to improve the quality and performance of prefabricated, standardized 2×4 floor, roof and wall assemblies. A review has conducted extensive testing to determine the optimal specifications for prefabrication and on-site assembly within strength and safety guidelines. In the next step, prefabricated components based on these specifications will go through on-site review. Tests will validate the most efficient assembly approaches. These results will then be documented in an updated manual that will serve as a unified standard for the Japanese 2×4 construction sector. Canada Wood plans to promote and distribute the manual to panel manufacturers, construction companies, structural engineers and builders to ensure the guidelines become standard practice in the sector.
