Shop Parallam PSL

Build better with Parallam PSL columns for your projects at Arlington Coal and Lumber to ensure your structure benefits from one of the strongest engineered wood products on the market. Understanding Parallam PSL columns is vital for high-load applications, as these parallel strand lumber products are manufactured from long veneer strands oriented in a parallel formation and bonded with waterproof adhesive. This unique process eliminates the natural knots and defects found in solid timber, resulting in a column that is incredibly strong, consistent, and resistant to bowing or shrinking.

 

As a premier local lumber store, we provide these high-performance products for open-concept floor plans and heavy structural supports across Greater Boston, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire. We are your best partner in bringing your dream project to life by providing best material estimates with our friendly locations close to you from Arlington Coal and Lumber Company, Burlington Lumber Company, Wilmington Builders Supply, Sudbury Lumber Company, Chelmsford Lumber Company, and Hudson Lumber Company. For technical data or custom sizing in the New England region, please contact us to consult with our structural specialists.

 

Understanding Parallam PSL Columns: Parallam PSL (Parallel Strand Lumber) columns are the workhorses of modern residential and commercial construction. Unlike traditional solid sawn timber, which is limited by the diameter of the tree, Parallam is engineered by bonding long wood strands under intense pressure. This results in a dense, consistent member that can support significantly heavier loads over longer spans.

 

For homeowners and builders, this means more design flexibility. If you are looking to create an expansive, open-concept kitchen or a large garage without obstructive support posts, Parallam PSL is often the superior choice. Its high modulus of elasticity and allowable stress design values make it ideal for supporting multi-story loads or heavy roof systems. You can browse our online product catalog to see available stock sizes, typically ranging from 3.5-in by 3.5-in up to 7-in by 7-in and beyond.

 

Buyers Guide: When your project demands structural integrity that goes beyond the capabilities of traditional lumber, Parallam Parallel Strand Lumber (PSL) columns are the industry standard. Below are the most frequent questions from builders and homeowners to help you determine if this high-performance material is right for your next build.

 

• Can Parallam PSL be used outdoors? Standard Parallam PSL is intended for dry-use service conditions. However, it can be used in exterior applications if it is pressure-treated with preservatives during the manufacturing process. Always check the specific rating of the column before installing it in an exposed environment like a deck or porch.
  
  
• Is Parallam PSL better than LVL or steel? While LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) is excellent for beams, Parallam PSL is often preferred for columns because it is available in thicker, square dimensions that provide better axial load capacity. Compared to steel, Parallam is easier to trim on-site with standard carpentry tools and offers a warm, natural aesthetic that many homeowners prefer for exposed structural elements.
  
  
• Can I drill holes through a Parallam beam or column? Yes, but with strict limitations. Because these are engineered for high-load structural integrity, drilling or notching must follow the manufacturer’s specific guidelines to avoid catastrophic failure. Large holes are generally forbidden in the middle third of a span. Please consult our team at Arlcoal.com before modifying any engineered wood product.
  
  
• How much does it cost? The cost varies based on the current lumber market and the specific dimensions required for your project. While the initial price point is higher than traditional lumber, you save money through reduced waste, faster installation, and the elimination of future callbacks due to warping or twisting. You can sign-up for an account to track your quotes and orders.
  
  
• Can Parallam PSL be stained or painted? Absolutely. One of the unique features of Parallam is its "hand-hewn" aesthetic, which showcases the pressed wood strands. When left exposed and finished with a high-quality stain, it becomes a beautiful architectural feature. If you prefer a modern look, it can also be primed and painted.
  
  
• What are the popular projects with Parallam PSL?

   

  • Creating large, open-concept living areas.
    
    
  • Structural support for grand entryways and porches.
    
    
  • Heavy-duty headers for wide garage door openings.
    
    
  • Industrial-style exposed interior framing.
    
    
• What lengths are available for Parallam PSL? Unlike solid timber, which becomes difficult to source in long straight lengths, Parallam can be manufactured in lengths up to 60-ft. This makes it perfect for tall foyer walls or continuous floor-to-roof structural columns.
  
  

We also offer a wide selection of quality Engineered Lumber at our home improvement store, including: Beams, Microllam LVL, Columns, Parallam PSL, Dimensional, TimberStrand LSL, TimberStrand LSL Rim Board, Joists, TJI Joists, TJI 110, TJI 230, TJI 360, TJI 560, and many more.

 

You can also shop with our all product categories for lumber and composites products like dimensional lumber, engineered lumber, fire treated wood, hardwood, plywood, pressure treated wood, softwood, trimboards, and so much more. Whether you need a local building supply partner for a single room or a multi-unit development, Arlington Coal and Lumber has the inventory and expertise to help you succeed.