In January, Northern Development received the final reporting form from Smith Timber Works in 150 Mile House, detailing the success of their Panel Manufacturing Improvements project through the Northern Industries Innovation Fund. The project resulted in Smith Timber Works adding an overhead crane to one of their indoor manufacturing facilities, and the significant building and electrical upgrades that were needed to make appropriate space for the crane’s installation.
As expected, the new equipment has greatly increased efficiency in wall and roof panel construction for the company, which strongly positions them as there is a notable interest in the construction of moderately-priced homes in short timeframes. Such is the case with the new contract between Smith Timber Works and a local First Nation to construct four new homes using premanufactured components and expedited onsite assembly.
The benefits of streamlined processes for panel construction includes direct and indirect benefits to the company and their customers. For Smith Timber Works, they expect to increase the number of employee positions by expanding their manufacturing services. The installation of the crane also makes for a better, more ergonomic work environment where people can work smarter versus harder – easing the physical toll on their body.
The crane also allows for more work to be completed on the panels in a controlled environment before they are moved to the building site. This includes insulation, air and vapor barriers, windows, and cladding. Having capacity to do more work at their base site increases efficiencies and safety as the shop is ideally set-up for the work. It also reduces inefficiencies associated with daily travel time, mobilization and demobilization, and the management of materials.
Northern Development committed $50,000 in rebate funding to Smith Timber Works to support this innovative development in one of their locations. The investment Smith Timber Works made in their business positions them strongly for future growth and contract opportunities, especially as the demand for housing on condensed timeframes continues to grow.
