Working wood 1 – 2026 – EN

PINE

New products join the standard range

LINDBÄCKS

Delivers wooden buildings at a profit even in tough times

Sawing small logs in Skinnskatteberg Europe’s fastest and most modern saw line for small-diameter logs means Setra is able to efficiently process the growing supply of small logs.

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A M A G A Z INE A B O U T G R E E N A ND P R O F I TA B L E B U S IN E S S F R O M S E T R A • I S S UE 1 2 0 2 6

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Contents

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IM AGE : M A RI A FÄ L DT

» LINDBÄCKS’ INDUSTRIAL BUILDING SYSTEM The long-established family business is Europe’s leading producer of wooden apartment blocks. Page 18.

» MAGNUS WÅLINDER Strong advocate of a biobased construction industry.

Page 16.

» WOOD OF THE FUTURE How should forests be managed for the greatest climate benefit? Forestry expert Dr Peter Holmgren offers some clarity. Page 14.

»

IMAGE: ERIK THOR

I L L U S T R AT I O N : M A D E L E N L I N D G R E N

» KNOW-HOW Pine and spruce share equivalent functional properties. Page 22.

SUBSCRIBE! Use the QR code to get a free subscription to the magazine Working Wood.

WOOD IS UNDENIABLY THE BEST MATERIAL FROM A BIOECONOMY POINT OF VIEW.

EDITORIAL TEAM

Working Wood is aimed at Setra’s customers, partners and stakeholders in Sweden and abroad, with a view to increasing knowledge about wood as a building material and providing inspiration. The magazine is published in Swedish and English. CIRCULATION: 4,800 copies ADDRESS: Setra Group, Box 3027, 169 03 Solna. TEL: +46 8 705 03 00. E-MAIL: workingwood@setragroup.com. RESPONSIBLE PUBLISHER: Melanie Sjögren. PRODUCTION: Chiffer AB. EDITOR: Iva Stepán. ART DIRECTOR: Anna-Karin Schröder. REPRO: Italgraf. PRINTING: Stibo COVER: Sawmill in Skinnskatteberg. PHOTOGRAPHER: Klas Sjöberg. All unsigned material is editorial. Photos without a byline are credited to the agency. What would you like to read about in the next issue? Suggestions and ideas should be sent to workingwood@setragroup.com.

For more Setra news, visit setragroup.com and follow us on LinkedIn.

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WORKING WOOD 1|26

COLUMN

I M A G E : K A S PA R H A M M A R L I N G

PETER FUNK, EVP Building Solutions and Components,MARCUS talks WESTDAHL about the plans for President and CEO Setra’s wood industry of Setra hub in Långshyttan.

Setra´s vision is to create long-term profitability while contributing to the global green transition, by doing business that benefits more than just ourselves.

GROWING DEMAND IN LÅNGSHYTTAN

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etra’s wood industry hub in systems. These solutions enable our customers Långshyttan is now taking a to streamline their processes and create efficient clear step forward as a strategic building systems using wood. and long-term material supplier to industrial customers. After Our ambition is to be the go-to materials a prolonged recession, we are predicting a rise partner, regardless of the scope of the project or in demand this autumn – a green shoot that type of construction. Setra can supply individhopefully points industry to a turning market.

Withby uncertainual components such as balconies, floors, stairs, he construction remains dogged antyagile flexible operation in However, south-eastthe direction lift shafts and more, as well as being a relevant and and a challenging economy.

Dalarna, are ready scaleofupthe production of travelwe is clear.

Theto status forest andaswood supplier for manufacturers of rib panels or theindustry industry’s needs grow.by a few tough years, but bytrusses – integrated into projects where wood is not defined In Långshyttan, to focus joins forces with other materials. This makes long-term societal where needs we andused the role wood plays in the primarily on delivering custom solutions in us a flexible supplier in an industrial value climate transition. and CLT foratindividual projects, we are Despite the glulam tough global forces work, there are plenty of successchain where collaboration and adaptability are positioning ourselves asina aconsiststories. In thisincreasingly issue, we report on the investment new line for crucial. ent partner for industrial customers. A broader At the same time, we continue to supply CLT small logs in Skinnskatteberg, where a new-generation sawmill is product and more more of standardised solutions increasing capacity andrange utilising the raw material.

Making and glulam for projects both large and small. mean we are use ableoftoforest offer resources efficient material Customers who choose Setra can expect high smarter and more efficient is an important step flows and deliveries that meet the inquality and durable products, technical experfor both our business andtrusted the climate. forexcels quality, precision and Lindbäcks isdustry’s a familyrequirements company that in industrial building tise and smooth interactions, with a keen focus delivery systems, and Setra has reliability. been a proud partner and supplier of glulam on service and long-term cooperation. for many years. Magnus Wålinder, Professor of Building Materials By expanding its operations in Långshytspring, we have supplied products for how tan, Setra has enhanced its competitiveness at Stockholm’sOver KTHthe Royal Institute of Technology, talks about integration into larger universities areindustrial playing aprocessing key role inand developing the wood construc- and position as a strong player in industrial system Thconstruction is has included CLT panels tion of the future andsolutions. a bio-based industry.

The way wood construction at a time of considerable WeWith manufacture and sell asawn combined with for processed glulam as an input wood playing central role forests are managed is crucial the climate.

Working Wood has challenges. and processed w ​ ood products of and climaterial in facade units, CLT staircase in the transition to a more sustainable interviewed forestry expert Dr Peter Holmgren aboutsystems how forests can fine quality and with high delivery for all benefit conceivable building whatever mate-smart society, we continue to evolve – as provide the greatest for society andsystems, the climate. precision to a global market. theirand frame material, CLT and a reliable material supplier to industry, now and The big picture trend is clear and – forestry andglulam the wood industry ❋ ed march for prefabricated ribraw panels in floor in the future. continue theirspecifi forward – and wood material has a starring CONTACT US – WE ARE HERE TO HELP info@setragroup.com | Phone: +46 8 705 03 00 role in a sustainable and bright future.❋

Progress continues in the right direction

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S e t ra

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In brief

INVESTMENTS | CONSTRUCTION | FIRE SAFETY

IM AGE : A RT EFAC TORY L A B

A-HOUSE, the former School of Architecture in Östermalm, Stockholm, is being extended. The A-wing upward extension will be built on top of the existing restaurant and brewery, adding a single storey with a ceiling height of up to six metres. The modern extension will have a distinctive fan-shaped copper roof, and a steel and CLT frame. Setra is supplying CLT for the project.

Setra in figures Setra is one of the largest wood industry companies in Sweden. » The Group comprises seven sawmills and two wood processing units, one of which is located in the UK. » Head Office is located in Solna, Sweden, while our customer service and logistics departments are based in Gävle. » Setra has sales offices in Poland, the UK, Japan and China.

SETRA’S PRODUCT GROUPS

28% Processed wood products

How can wood and biobased materials be used in high-security buildings such as prisons? This is currently being investigated in a research project led by RISE, with Setra as one of the participants. The aim is to develop sustainable solutions through new building systems and verified prototypes that fulfil high safety requirements and reduce the climate impact.

The project “Secure buildings in wood and bio-based materials” is due to be finalised in 2026.

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I M A G E : BJÖRN LEIJON

High security and climate friendly

18% Bioproducts

54% Sawn wood products

68% of sales go to export

SUSANNE RUDENSTAM Director, Swedish Wood Building Council

“The future is bright for industrial wood construction in Sweden.

Demand for new housing is acute around the world, and we need to be building in a smarter way that maintains high quality.”

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billion kronor, Setra’s turnover in 2025

800

Setra has just over 800 employees and has Mellanskog as its main owner.

IMAGE: ERIK THOR

Help us get better We are now reviewing content, format, and the future of Working Wood and would like to know what you think. The survey takes about 4–5 minutes to complete. Scan the QR code to answer the questions. The last day to respond is June 26, 2026.

Thank you very much for helping us develop Working Wood! Together we are building a future with wood.

Bromma Trädgårdsstad consists of four apartment blocks built around a CLT frame from Setra.

IMAGE: MANS BERG PHOTOGR APHY

Low fire risk Modern apartments in timber-framed buildings have a lower incidence of fires than the total housing stock in Sweden.

Lumi, Uppsala.

Building of the Year Setra supplied CLT and glulam for two of the buildings named Building of the Year 2026. Lumi in Uppsala took home the overall title, with the old office block standing as one of Sweden’s most innovative examples of a reuse project. Greenhouse Sthlm won the Hotel/Office category with its office and residential block in Stadshagen, Stockholm, which boasts the headquarters of Electrolux among its roster of tenants. A timber frame and material reuse were core features of the build.

he frequency of fires in modern apartment blocks with a timber frame has been analysed in a study by RISE. The study includes data on all fires in apartment buildings and houses reported by Sweden’s emergency services to the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency during the period 1996–2023. Only 0.4 percent of wooden buildings suffered fires, compared with 3.1 percent of the total stock.

To further address the issue of fire safety in wooden houses, the Swedish Wood Building Council and the Swedish Wood and Furniture Federation (TMF) have launched new industry rules aimed at reducing the risk of fire spreading.

The rules supplement the Swedish National Board of Housing’s Building Regulations.

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IMAGE: SOMMARNÖJEN

DID YOU KNOW ...

Sweden’s rules on building permits were simplified at the end of last year?

Under the changes, outbuildings and garden rooms up to 30 square metres no longer require a permit.

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NEW PROJECTS

ECODATACENTER 2, KVARNSVEDEN

I M A G E : E C O D ATA C E N T E R K VA R N S V E D E N

The former Kvarnsveden paper mill is being transformed into a centre for next-generation technology with the construction of data centres for AI infrastructure. The first data centre is expected to be completed here in 2027, with a total build time of an estimated 8–10 years, by which point the site will be one of the largest of its kind in Europe. The data centres are being built with a timber frame. » Architect: Nordisk Kombination Arkitekter » Site area: Approx.

22 hectares » Setra’s delivery: Glulam sent in stages to Dalahus’ prefabrication factory in Linghed and directly to the construction site in Borlänge.

IMAGE: C ARL S TEDT ARKITEK TER

NYCKELBERGSSKOLAN, KÖPING The new Nyckelbergsskolan will accommodate 420 pupils from preschool to year 6. The building will be ready for the start of the autumn term in 2027. The project involves a varied frame structure, with steel columns and beams, wooden columns and beams, trusses, concrete internal walls, concrete stairs, and concrete hollow-core and RD slabs. » Architect: Carlstedt Arkitekter » Frame delivery and assembly: CarlGustav Solutions AB » Setra’s delivery: Engineered glulam beams and columns for the frame (100% PEFC-certified)

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WORKING WOOD 1|26

IN BRIEF IMAGE: GAIA ARKITEK TUR

BYGGPARTNER’S HEAD OFFICE, BORLÄNGE Construction of Bokstödet 14, ByggPartner’s new three-storey office building, is translating knowledge from research projects into practical solutions. The focus is on sustainability and biodiversity, for example by minimising material use and working with local producers that promote forest resilience. The structural frame is optimised to be flexible over time, minimise material use and handle an upward extension. » Architect: Gaia Arkitektur » Area: 1,800 sqm » Setra’s delivery: Glulam for Dalahus to use as rib panels and block-glued columns, interior and exterior.

Setra cuts its carbon footprint by 34 per cent Setra set an interim target of reducing its carbon footprint by 35 percent between 2015 and 2025. The eventual outcome was a reduction of 34 percent.

This total covers direct and indirect emissions along the whole value chain – from forest to delivery to end customers.

“We see the 34 percent reduction in our carbon footprint as a win that fulfils our interim target, indicating the strength of Setra’s long-term climate work, not to mention the commitment of our employees,” says Melanie Sjögren, Setra’s EVP Sustainability and Communication.

This year, in addition to the company’s climate report, Setra is also reporting the climate benefit for 2025 according to a new ISO standard. The standard provides an overall picture of how the business affects the carbon balance in the forest, net sequestration in society, and the substitution effect where Setra’s wood products are able to replace fossil alternatives.

“The calculations show that Setra’s operations are clearly climate positive – even without taking the forest’s carbon balance into account,” says Melanie Sjögren. “Our own emissions amount to a fraction of the climate benefits of our products. But we still need to continue reducing or removing emissions along the chain.”

The climate benefits of Setra wood products » Positive net carbon sequestration in the forests from which Setra sources wood. Setra does not own any forest of its own, but the carbon balance can be demonstrated for the forests from which the wood originates. 99 percent of Setra’s wood comes from Sweden, with the rest coming from Norway and Finland.

These countries report net positive forest carbon stocks. » The carbon stored in Setra’s wood-based products out in the community reduced the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere by -0.47 million tonnes, expressed as carbon dioxide equivalents (MtCO2e). » Emissions in Setra’s value chain amounted to 0.16 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalents (MtCO2e). » Potential avoided greenhouse gas emissions thanks to Setra’s wood products total -3.2 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalents (MtCO2e).

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FOREST GOLD

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The Swedish forest As much as 70 percent of Sweden’s land surface is covered by trees, making it the most forested country in Europe. Productive forest land consists of 42 percent pine, 39 percent spruce and 19 percent broadleaves.

Forestry Of Sweden’s total 28 million hectares of forest land, around 25 percent is exempt from forestry operations in various ways. No forest is therefore felled there.

In addition, a further 8–10 percent of the area in managed forests is left as a general conservation measure during felling.

According to the National Forest Inventory, 3.7 million hectares of current forest is more than 140 years old. Old-growth forest is good for biodiversity.

Replanting Thanks to a long-term focus on replanting, Swedish forests contain twice as much wood as they did a hundred years ago.

For every tree harvested, 2–3 new seedlings are planted on average. Replanting is one of the pillars of Swedish forestry and has been a legal requirement since 1903.

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WORKING WOOD 1|26

GROWTH IS INCREASING

Forest growth is increasing after a few years of higher rainfall and fewer pests. The net uptake of greenhouse gases in forests and soils in 2024 was 54.3 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalents, up 8 million tonnes on 2023. In this time, Sweden’s emissions have actually risen, reaching 47.5 million tonnes in 2024.

Source: Swedish Environmental Protection Agency

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FOCUS

Fastest in Europe

Entering Setra’s ultra-modern sawmill in Skinnskatteberg, you are greeted by the fresh smell of cut wood. Here, in the deep forests of Västmanland, small diameter logs have now been sawn at a furious pace for a year and a half.

T E X T: I VA S T E PÁ N I M A G E : K L A S S J Ö B E R G

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The current record is a production rate of 1,500 logs per hour, already exceeding the original target of 1,400.

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FOCUS

Timber has been sawn in Skinnskatteberg since 1911.

The new saw line opened in October 2024.

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n recent years, Setra has invested almost SEK 2 billion in its facilities to develop and implement new technology for its sawmills. The new small-log saw in Skinnskatteberg streamlines and rationalises production, with the lion’s share of all small logs now processed here. Niklas Thorén, Mill Manager, explains: “The saw is optimised to produce large volumes of timber very quickly. The line runs at a speed of 220 metres per minute, allowing us to handle twice as many logs as the old saw line could manage. This means that the saw produces the same volume as other sawmills, despite the smaller diameters of the logs at 11–21 centimetres.”

Directing all the small logs to Skinnskatteberg frees up resources to handle larger dimensions at Setra’s other sawmills, giving an overall increase in production for the Group.

“There is a greater need to be able to handle small-diameter logs these days, with more thinning bringing more of the logs onto the market,” says Niklas Thorén.

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THE SAWMILL IN SKINNSKATTEBERG INVESTMENT COST: Approx. SEK 200 million.

EMPLOYEES: 50 of whom 45 work in production.

PRODUCTION: Around 260,000 m3 sawn timber.

The saw has the capacity to handle 1,450 logs per hour.

AREAS OF USE: The timber is further processed into planed wood products at Setra’s plant in Hasselfors and into glulam in Långs­ hyttan. A large proportion is sold as planks and boards for construction in Germany, France and the UK. Residual products such as shavings and wood chips are turned into bioenergy that heats the plant in Skinnskatteberg. The chips are also sold to pulp mills.

The decision on the new investment was ­taken back in 2021 and the last few years have been intense. The previous bandsaw line was designed for larger dimensions and required a lot of maintenance. Peter Hammarström, Production Manager in Skinnskatteberg, has been involved in every step of the change journey.

“We’ve specially adapted the entire production line and increased capacity at all stages: the measuring station, the saw, the dryer, the trim saw and dispatch. It’s a modern, fully automated, straight line where the timber goes directly to the stacker and onwards for distribution,” he says.

The new saw line is housed in modern, bright premises built using Setra’s own CLT and glulam, giving a boost to the work environment and job satisfaction. Axel Grusell, saw and sawblade technician, is based in the filing room.

GREEN TRANSITION

» Wood is the only renewable building material, as it absorbs carbon dioxide and locks it in as carbon throughout its lifetime.

Setra’s investments are therefore also making an important contribution to the green transition in Swedish industry.

This has brought about a huge change for the better in terms of the work environment, with the removal of the more physically demanding tasks. Built with safety and ergonomics in mind, all the saw’s platforms, working heights and processes are well thought out.

“At the same time, it does require new skills and many of our workers have had to retrain. The new circular saw is technically highly advanced and involves completely new ways of working. For example, dimensional accuracy has become much more important. The timber is run against an alignment wire and just half a millimetre of misalignment can cause major problems,” explains Peter.

The remodelling of the saw line has completely changed the nature of saw and sawblade technician Axel Grusell’s role. Previously, he was an operator in production.

“I’m responsible for managing all the sawblades and cutting tools. I sharpen some of the tools myself on site, but larger steels and blades are serviced elsewhere. In my

role as a saw technician, I also make sure the machines are correctly calibrated.”

As the sole sawblade technician, Axel has played a key role in the start-up of the new plant.

“It has been very inspiring and I’ve learned a lot. We received support and training from our suppliers: Hewsaw, which manufactured the saw, and sawblade ­supplier Kvarnstrand.”

Axel sees the investment as an extremely positive move for Skinnskatteberg.

“The project has really boosted our confidence in the future and it’s great to be able to develop the business,” he says. “We’re a great team and really committed.”

He continues: “The next step for me is to increase the number of people who can operate the filing tools. Both shifts should be able to sharpen steel, so I’ll be training my colleagues. The need for expertise is increasing as we scale up production to full capacity, and over the spring the sawmill is also set to switch to 24-hour production.❋ 13

WOOD OF THE FUTURE

MAXIMUM BENEFIT Everyone agrees that forests are important for the climate. But in the public debate, opinions sometimes differ on how forestry should be managed to maximise the climate benefit.

T E X T: I VA S T E PÁ N

How should forests be managed for the greatest climate benefit? Is it better to leave them alone – or to manage them? And why is the full climate benefit not visible in the current system?

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orking Wood spoke to forestry expert Dr Peter Holmgren, former Director General of CIFOR*, about climate benefits, EU rules and common misconceptions in the forestry debate.

How does forestry benefit the climate?

“The climate benefit is fundamentally about reducing the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. This happens in two ways: by storing carbon in the forest, but above all by replacing fossil materials with wood-based products – what we call the substitution effect.

When renewable wood is used instead of plastics, steel or fossil fuels, the fossil stay in the ground, which is a real benefit for the climate.”

How should forests be managed to maximise the climate benefit?

“The engine driving the system is growth in the forest. The more the forest grows, the more carbon dioxide is captured and the more raw material is created for products to replace ­fossil-based alternatives.

Here in Sweden, we have high net growth in the forests, while producing large quantities of wood-based products. This generates a climate benefit that actually exceeds our national emissions. I always say that a stump is the surest proof that the forest is working for the climate.”

Isn’t it better for the climate to just leave the forests as they are?

“This is a common perception but it’s not generally correct. Leaving forests intact can be important for some reasons, such as biodiversity or recreation. In Sweden, we’ve set aside a quarter of the forest for these purposes. And it’s true that leaving

forests intact is also better for the climate than cutting them down for agriculture, mining or infrastructure. But from a climate perspective, not harvesting wood will miss out on the opportunity to replace fossil materials and there is a risk that forests will be damaged by storms or pest attacks if they are not actively managed.

Living trees are fragile and also, the older they get, the less carbon they accumulate. Just leaving older forests as they are thus reduces the climate benefit. Medium-aged, growing forests sequester the most carbon.”

Is continuous cover forestry better for the climate?

“There are no clear climate arguments in favour of continuous cover forestry, but it can be nice from a recreational point of view to avoid clearcutting. Continuous cover forests are less productive and more prone to damage.”

Why isn’t the full climate benefit apparent in the EU’s metrics?

“Climate reporting is based on each sector or country reporting its own emissions and ­removals, but wood products from forests reduce emissions in other sectors, such as construction or energy which is not captured. The wood-based products that Sweden exports to other countries is also not something that we can include in our national climate reporting.”

So how can the full climate benefit be made clear?

“One way is to add new methods alongside the current systems. Last year, for example, a new ISO standard (ISO 13391) was introduced with a particular focus on capturing the substitution effect and providing a holistic picture that measures the climate benefits of the entire wood-based value chain. It has had a good take-up so far.”❋

“A STUMP IS THE SUREST PROOF THAT THE FOREST IS WORKING FOR THE CLIMATE.” Forestry expert Dr Peter Holmgren, former Director General of CIFOR*

*CIFOR – Center for International Forestry Research

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INSIDE THE MIND OF

MAGNUS WÅLINDER OCCUPATION: Professor of Building Materials, School of Architecture and the Built Environment, KTH. Director of the research team.

CAREER: Around 20 years of experience in R&D in wood technology and wood materials. Senior Lecturer in wood and wood composites, PhD in wood technology and wood processing. Has worked at SP Träteknik (now RISE), Trätek, EcoBuild Institute Excellence Centre and the ­University of Maine, amongst others.

RESEARCH FOCUS: Bio-based building materials from renewable resources.

T E X T: I VA S T E PÁ N IMAGE: ERIK THOR

Bio-based construction industry The construction industry needs to transition and become bio-based. To make this a reality, the industry needs to be much better informed, and this is where the training of architects and civil engineers plays a key role, in the view of Magnus Wålinder, Professor of Building Materials at KTH Royal Institute of Technology.

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Broseniushallen at KTH is a makerspace for wood construction where research, development and industrial development come together.

Students from fields such as architecture or construction and civil engineering get to put their knowledge into practice in an annual bridge-building competition.

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agnus Wålinder, Professor of “As a profesBuilding Materials at KTH Royal Institute of Technology, sional group, is passionate about circularity architects and bio-based solutions. His interest in renewable raw materials may stem from have the growing up in Sundsvall, very much a forest greatest industry city at the time, and from his holiday jobs at the sawmill during his student years. impact on Magnus Wålinder has held a professorship in the choice of building materials since 2011, choosing to specialise in bio-based building materials. It proved a materials shrewd choice, as the field has become one of the solutions to society’s major climate challenges. for new “We have to pursue a bioeconomy. The buildings.” production of concrete and steel for construction accounts for an estimated 20 percent of global climate emissions. Circularity is very difficult to achieve with concrete, but wood can be dismantled and reused in a completely different way. Wood is undeniably the best material from a bioeconomy point of view and the only one that can compete with steel and concrete in terms of technical properties and availability,” says Magnus.

The universities that train architects and civil engineers have a key role to play in developing the future of wood construction, according to Magnus.

“Students quickly find themselves in decision-making positions in their professional lives, and they need to know how to minimise the climate impact of construction and how to combine materials to reduce overall material consumption. As a professional group, architects have the greatest impact on the choice of materials for new buildings.”

The educational programmes focus on practical applications that directly benefit industrial construction. Wood is very much a material that can be developed as an ‘engineering material’ through various processing techniques such as gluing, surface treatment and pressure treatment.

“With the right processing, wood is a ­material that behaves just as predictably as steel and concrete,” says Magnus. Some materials are naturally very good from an engineering perspective, such as birch plywood.”❋ 17

TOUCH WOOD

Over 100 years of growth

Innovative industrial building systems more than halve carbon emissions compared with traditional construction.

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IMAGE: ANDRE A S LUNDBERG

During tough times for the construction industry in general, Lindbäcks in northern Sweden is bucking the trend.

The combination of tradition and innovation has made the family business more profitable than ever.

T E X T: M A R I E K A R L S S O N

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TOUCH WOOD In the factory in Piteå, fully fitted out modules are completed on an assembly line. And the factory runs on renewable energy.

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I M A G E : MARIA FÄLDT

n a market where businesses have gone bust one after the other, Lindbäcks continues to deliver, at a profit. Proof that the industrial building system produced by Lindbäcks is both cost-effective and high quality. As Europe’s leading ­producer of apartment blocks, Lindbäcks also contributes to a reduced climate footprint, as it always opts to build in wood.

In its state-of-the-art factory in Piteå, Lindbäcks builds housing in much the same way that others build cars. Customers are both municipal and private companies in the construction and property sector, mostly with operations around Mälardalen and to the north. Production is an industrial process that takes place in a controlled, high-tech environment where every step is carefully quality-assured, with full control over all the flows. The process was developed according to the Lean philosophy, which is crucial to Lindbäcks’ huge success, says Business Manager Ida Snäll.

“We’ve hit on a production model that we know works. Most of the construction takes place inside the factory, out of the weather, in a warm, dry and light environment that is ergonomically designed for worker safety. As much of the building as possible is completed indoors before being dispatched to the construction site, where it can then be quickly assembled and erected,” Ida explains.

I M A G E : MARIA FÄLDT

“Lindbäcks loves forward planning, and working with a stable and reliable supplier like Setra is crucial for that. Our industrial flow places enormously high demands on deliveries, as we depend on the right products being in the right place at exactly the right time. We feel that Setra meets those demands with flying colours.”

Built in 2017, the factory is more than just a production facility. It has also become something of an attraction in the construction and urban development sector. Visitors from near and far come to learn more about 20

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Ida Snäll, Business Manager

I M A G E : MARIA FÄLDT

The Dubbelkrut development in Skellefteå consists of 161 rental apartments spread over four buildings. The blocks are built from prefabricated timber box units from Lindbäcks.

“LINDBÄCKS IS A MUCHAPPRECIATED PARTNER.” Daniel Edman, Sales Manager Construction & Industrial Sector at Setra.

LINDBÄCKS’ BUSINESS » Founded: 1924. » Head office and factories: Piteå, Haraholmen and an office in Stockholm. » Geographical reach: All of northern Sweden and Mälardalen. » Business focus: Apartment blocks and sheltered housing. » Speciality: All apartment blocks are built with a timber frame, mostly using industrial production methods in the factory. » Sales 2025: SEK 1.35 billion. » Profit 2025: SEK 25 million after tax. » No. of employees: 282.

PRECISION AND DELIVERY Lindbäcks’ industrial wood construction and sustainable production methods, and the company has experience and knowledge that is well worth sharing. The factory may be relatively new, but the company has a century of history behind it.

“We’re very proud of our background. It all started back in 1924 with a family-owned village sawmill. I think our success comes from never resting on past achievements. Innovation is our tradition here at Lindbäcks.

Over the years, we’ve managed to find many

Setra’s beams become load-bearing elements in Lindbäcks’ floor modules and frame structures.

Precision delivery is crucial to avoid production bottlenecks. The raw material for Setra’s glulam beams comes exclusively from Mellanskog’s owners, who are small and medium-sized forest owners from Mälardalen in central Sweden to Östersund further north. Mellanskog is the sole owner of Setra.

new solutions that have given us a competitive edge, not least through close, long-term collaborations with partners such as Luleå University of Technology,” says Ida. Although the term industrial construction brings to mind repetitive production lines, Lindbäcks has never built the same building twice. However, many of the different elements are the same, creating smart working practices and predictable quality.

“We know how to help our customers turn a profit. We recommend the smartest paths to take, the choices that work and give the best results, based on the customer’s ultimate goal.

The aim is always to ensure profitability, as much for our customer as for us,” adds Ida.

Lindbäcks offers a turnkey solution. They design, build and develop sustainable, ­r­esource-efficient and climate-smart structures in wood, supported by equally dedicated partners. Setra has been delivering precision glulam in custom dimensions, in the right delivery order, since 2013.

Lindbäcks is a valued partner, asserts Daniel Edman, Setra’s Sales Manager Construction & Industrial Sector.

“We custom-make glulam beams to include features such as prefabricated holes and cutouts for rapid assembly. We can easily switch to the exact dimensions needed and always reserve capacity for Lindbäcks, so they’re guaranteed to get the right material at the right time. We send many cubic metres of glulam from Långshyttan to Piteå every year, which is something we’re very proud of,” says Daniel.❋ 21

KNOW-HOW

Pine enters the product range Pine is now taking its place as a standard material for construction timber, glulam and CLT applications. This is being driven by the reduced availability of spruce, caused mainly by spruce bark beetle damage, and the preference for pine in replanting as forestry develops its adaptation to local conditions.

T E X T : IVA STEPÁN ILLU ST RAT IO N : MA DELEN LINDGREN

I M A G E : PAT R I C K D E G E R M A N

DANIEL WILDED PRODUCT MANAGER BUILDING SOLUTIONS AT SETRA

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Because spruce has been the most common wood species in Sweden for a long time, it has also dominated in construction, while pine has mainly been used for interior and pressure-treated products. However, pine construction timber has been available for a long time. Setra’s range includes both untreated planed timber and pressure-treated timber.

“This spring, Setra launched some new products: standard pine beams and CLT with a pine mid-layer,” says Daniel Wilded, Product ­Manager Building Solutions at Setra.

A glulam beam in pine or spruce has equivalent properties and is the same product in terms of its functionality, using materials in exactly the same standardised strength classes.

“The difference is that pine is more likely to absorb moisture and should therefore not be used for certain purposes. ‘The right material in the right place’ continues to apply. There has also been a fear of pine getting blue stain, which is purely cosmetic and doesn’t affect the strength of the timber,” explains Daniel.

The availability of tree species and traditions are the main drivers of timber selection in different countries.

“For example, Japan has a long tradition of using pine in glulam. While pine is used in Italy and Germany, the availability of larch means that they tend to choose that instead,” says Daniel Wilded.❋

2 AVAILABILITY AND TRADITION

» Wood’s availability and

1 SETRA’S RANGE OF GLULAM Setra has a wide range of glulam. Find out more on our website.

knowledge of the properties of different wood species have always influenced the types of wood used in construction. » Historically, Sweden has used many different types of wood, including hardwoods. » The idea that spruce is better suited to construction is a long-held convention that has largely endured in Sweden out of habit. Look at Canada, for example, which has no differentiation between the two types of wood and often sells them in a completely mixed range.

Source: Swedish Wood

3 PROPERTIES

» In terms of strength, stiff-

ness and density, pine usually performs slightly better than spruce in lab tests.

» For the structural engineer,

there is no difference between the different softwoods. They are divided into the same standardised strength classes, such as C24.

» In strength tables, softwoods are treated as structurally equivalent. » Pine can be substituted for spruce in all but particularly weather-exposed parts of a construction project.

Source: Swedish Wood

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IMAGE: BABER STUDIO

Around the world

» Setra’s markets are Sweden (32%), Europe (35%), Asia and Australia (10%), North Africa and the Middle East (15%) and the USA (8%).

IMAGE: GF55 ARCHITECTS

Largest wood project in NY In New York, more than 500 new mixed-tenure housing units are to be built on the north shore of Staten Island. The project will be the largest mass timber housing project in New York and one of the largest in the US. The use of mass timber will reduce the project’s carbon footprint while shortening the construction time. The project is also contributing to New York City’s Green Economy Action Plan. Construction is planned to start in 2027.

Wooden fire station Australia’s first wooden fire station has won an international sustainability award from the Built by Nature organisation in the Public Infrastructure category.

The 2,695 sqm station in Maryborough, Queensland, is built from CLT and glulam.

With its prefabricated elements, assembly took a mere two weeks. “The project stores carbon, supports Queensland’s timber economy, and shows that mass timber can effectively deliver complex public infrastructure initiatives,” reads the jury citation.

The project was also showcased at the COP30 climate conference in Brazil in 2025.

GLOBAL FLOWS

The main impacts on global trade in wood raw materials in 2025 were US import tariffs, Russia’s war against Ukraine, the Israel/ Palestine conflict and economic uncertainty in Europe.

Exports from Europe to China are expected to increase by 10 percent in 2026, with intra-European trade growing by 5 percent.

Canada’s exports to China +5% Europe’s exports to the US remain unchanged

Intra-European trade +5% Europe does not import wood products from Russia Europe’s exports to China -10%

Europe’s exports to North Africa remain unchanged

» NEW TRADE PATTERNS

Changes in imports and exports in 2025 compared to forecast for 2026.

Source: Eurostat, USDA, UK Trade Info, China Customs

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IMAGE: KL A S SJÖBERG

Construction of a school in Båtsfjord, Norway.

DEMAND EXPECTED TO EXCEED SUPPLY Global demand for wood raw material is expected to increase by 50–70 million cubic metres by 2030, according to Timwood forecasts. This will bring total annual global demand up to approaching 400 million cubic metres, which far exceeds the current supply of wood raw material. Insect infestations in Europe, harvesting restrictions in China, limits on planting in South America, sanctions against Russia and conflicting forestry regulations in the EU are holding back production.

“This year, despite the weakness of the construction sector, supply and demand for wood raw materials are virtually in balance. To manage the transition to a sustainable society in which wood raw material plays an essential role, it is vital that measures are taken to encourage production in the coming years,” states Olle Berg, EVP Market and Business Development at Setra.

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SPOTLIGHT

Contents

NTR-CLASSIFIED Pressure-treated glulam is now available with an NTR-classification, fulfilling the industry’s demand for improved protection against rot and 26attacks. The material other biological is particularly suitable for structures in damp or outdoor environments, such as a dimensionally stable foundation under decking.

IM AGE : M A RI A FÄ L DT

FLEXIBLE MATERIAL Glulam is used in 01 a wide range of construction projects and is suitable for both large-scale load-bearing structures and smaller contexts.

Glulam is a common choice for roofing solutions, columns and frames in larger premises, but also as part of a floor system in combination with CLT.

» LINDBÄCKS’ INDUSTRIAL BUILDING SYSTEM The long-established family business is Europe’s leading producer of wooden apartment blocks. Page 18.

More glulam options

Our range of glulam – a durable and versatile material – has been » MAGNUS WÅLINDER » WOOD OF THE FUTURE expanded pine. advocate of a bioHow should forests be managedand for the is now available in both spruce andStrong based construction industry. greatest climate benefit? Forestry expert Dr Pressure-treated (NTR-classified) glulam and pinePage glulam 16.

Peter Holmgren offers some clarity. Page 14. are now also part of Setra’s standard range.

Strong properties

IMAGE: MÅNS BERG

I L L U S T R AT I O N : M A D E L E N L I N D G R E N

T E X T: I VA S T E PÁ N I M A G E : K L A S S J Ö B E R G

Standard and customised

»

IMAGE: JOHAN ELDROT

2

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WORKING WOOD 1|26 WORKING WOOD 1|26

IMAGE: ERIK THOR

SUBSCRIBE! Glulam boasts a high strengthGlulam is part of a Use standard the QR code to to-weight ratio, which range of stock items can get aand free subscription enables the construction of also be produced in larger to the magazine load-bearing structures with dimensions – beams Working in widthsWood.

STABLE LOAD-BEARING efficient use of materials while of up to 215 mm and lengths CAPACITY IN A FIRE achieving the desired capacity. exceeding 20 metres. For pro» KNOW-HOW Glulam retains its Environmental product declajects with special requirements, Pine and spruce share load-bearing function rations show that wood has a it is possible to order glulam in WOODfor ISaUNDENIABLY THE BEST MATERIAL equivalent functional long time in a fire, significantly lower environmenother dimensions and designs, FROMwith A BIOECONOMY POINT OF VIEW. properties. Page 22. burning progresstal impact than alternatives for example with bevels or ing slowly and predictsuch as steel and concrete. In machining for fixings and ably. Structures can be addition to its technical adanchors. Beams are block glued designed to meet fire EDITORIAL TEAM vantages, glulam is often used or screwed and glued together safety classes such as Working Wood in Sweden and abroad, with a view to knowledge for its warm and natural look,is aimed at Setra’s customers, partners and stakeholders toincreasing create wider dimensions 30, 60 or 90 minutes. about wood as a building material and providing inspiration. The magazine is published in Swedish and English. CIRCULATION: 4,800 especially when the structure is that meet load and fire safety Larger beam dimencopies ADDRESS: Setra Group, Box 3027, 169 03 Solna. TEL: +46 8 705 03 00. E-MAIL: workingwood@setragroup.com. RESPONSIBLE sionsART provide longer left exposed. requirements.

PUBLISHER: Melanie Sjögren. PRODUCTION: Chiffer AB. EDITOR: Iva Stepán.

DIRECTOR: Anna-Karin Schröder.

REPRO: resistance thePhotos without a byline Italgraf. PRINTING: Stibo COVER: Sawmill in Skinnskatteberg. PHOTOGRAPHER: Klas Sjöberg. All unsigned materialbefore is editorial. are credited to the agency. What would you like to read about in the next issue? Suggestions and ideasload-bearing should be sent tocapacity workingwood@setragroup.com. is For more Setra news, visit setragroup.com and follow us on LinkedIn. affected.

COLUMN

PETER FUNK, EVP Building Solutions and Components, talks about the plans for Setra’s wood industry hub in Långshyttan.

GROWING DEMAND IN LÅNGSHYTTAN

S

etra’s wood industry hub in Långshyttan is now taking a clear step forward as a strategic and long-term material supplier to industrial customers. After a prolonged recession, we are predicting a rise in demand this autumn – a green shoot that hopefully points to a turning market. With an agile and flexible operation in south-east Dalarna, we are ready to scale up production as the industry’s needs grow.

In Långshyttan, where we used to focus primarily on delivering custom solutions in glulam and CLT for individual projects, we are increasingly positioning ourselves as a consistent partner for industrial customers. A broader product range and more standardised solutions mean we are able to offer efficient material flows and trusted deliveries that meet the industry’s requirements for quality, precision and delivery reliability.

Over the spring, we have supplied products for industrial processing and integration into larger system solutions. This has included CLT panels combined with processed glulam as an input material in facade units, CLT staircase systems for all conceivable building systems, whatever their frame material, and CLT and glulam specified for prefabricated rib panels in floor

systems. These solutions enable our customers to streamline their processes and create efficient building systems using wood.

Our ambition is to be the go-to materials partner, regardless of the scope of the project or type of construction. Setra can supply individual components such as balconies, floors, stairs, lift shafts and more, as well as being a relevant supplier for manufacturers of rib panels or trusses – integrated into projects where wood joins forces with other materials. This makes us a flexible supplier in an industrial value chain where collaboration and adaptability are crucial.

At the same time, we continue to supply CLT and glulam for projects both large and small.

Customers who choose Setra can expect high quality and durable products, technical expertise and smooth interactions, with a keen focus on service and long-term cooperation.

By expanding its operations in Långshyttan, Setra has enhanced its competitiveness and position as a strong player in industrial wood construction at a time of considerable challenges. With wood playing a central role in the transition to a more sustainable and climate-smart society, we continue to evolve – as a reliable material supplier to industry, now and in the future.❋

27

WOODY

SMALL-LOG SAWMILL SETRA SKINNSKATTEBERG VÄSTMANLAND The new saw line for smalldiameter logs in Skinnskatteberg handles dimensions of 11–21 centimetres. With a circular saw as technically advanced as this, precise settings are crucial for the end result. Just half a millimetre of misalignment can have major repercussions.

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S e t r a G r o u p , B o x 3 0 2 7, 1 6 9 0 3 S o ln a , S w e d e n . s e t r a g r o u p . c o m