Western Forest Products Starts Up New Continuous Kiln at its Chemainus, BC, Facility

Western Forest Products announced that the first batches of lumber are now being loaded into one of two continuous dry kilns scheduled for installation at its Value-Added Division in Chemainus, BC.

The company said the milestone marks another step in its effort to improve product consistency, lead times, and long-term supply reliability for customers. The additional kiln capacity will support increased production of kiln-dried lumber, including material used in the manufacture of glulam for mass timber construction.

Western said the project is part of its broader strategy to focus on higher-value products. The investment is also part of a wider effort to modernize its BC coastal manufacturing operations, including upgrades to primary facilities, expanded kiln drying and planing capacity, and growth in engineered wood products and remanufacturing capabilities.

A second continuous dry kiln is scheduled to be installed later in 2026, further increasing capacity at the Chemainus operation.