Leading the Future of Sustainable Wood Products

HempWood, founded by Greg Wilson and headquartered in Murray, Kentucky, is redefining engineered wood through sustainable innovation. With a focus on efficiency and environmental responsibility, the company operates three manufacturing facilities near Kentucky Dam, employing 24 staff members at its primary location and collaborating with 19 contracted farmers.

Notably, 80% of the hemp used in production is sourced locally, reinforcing its commitment to regional agriculture and supply chain sustainability.

The Fibonacci Influence: Efficiency in Manufacturing

The company derives its name from the Fibonacci sequence, a mathematical principle associated with optimal space utilization and carbon sequestration. This philosophy is reflected in operations, where a zero-waste manufacturing process is maintained through an advanced bio-burner system.

Furthermore, an employee-ownership model ensures that managers and long-term staff members share in the company’s success, fostering a sustainable and invested workforce.

Product Innovation and Performance

HempWood's engineered wood products are composed of 95% bio-based materials, primarily hemp fibers bound with a soy-based adhesive. The result is a remarkably dense and durable material with a Janka hardness rating of 2,200, surpassing traditional hardwoods like White Oak and Hickory.

Production Capacity

HempWood’s production facility operates at a capacity of 3,500 square feet per batch, with a weekly output reaching 10,000 square feet. Standard log dimensions measure 5.5 inches by 5.5 inches, extending up to six feet in length, making them suitable for various applications.

HempWood Flooring: Installation and Versatility

HempWood flooring is designed for versatility, featuring a tongue-and-groove system that allows for multiple installation methods:

• Nail-down – Ideal for wood subfloors.
• Glue-down – Suitable for concrete surfaces.
• Glue-assist floating system – Commonly used in residential applications.

To enhance moisture resistance, edge sealing or a topcoat application is required. Commercial installations typically utilize Bona HD Traffic sealer, while specialized sports floor coatings have been developed for school and institutional settings.

Major Installations and Market Reach

HempWood has been installed in major educational and institutional projects, aligning with zero-VOC environmental standards. Notable installations include:

• Cornell University USDA Building (16,000 square feet)
• University of Kentucky & Murray State University
• Upcoming projects at Princeton University and University of Pennsylvania
• Bowling Green schools (Up to 64,000 square feet of flooring projects)

To date, 1.4 million square feet of HempWood has been installed nationwide. The company maintains a global distribution network spanning six European countries, Canada, and the U.S., with an expansion into Australia currently underway.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

Sustainability is at the core of HempWood’s mission. The company’s engineered wood products are carbon-negative, sequestering one pound of carbon per square foot for a minimum of 100 years.

Industry Certifications and Green Building Contributions

HempWood is the first U.S.-based wood flooring company to achieve:

• Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) certification
• Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) certification
• Contributes up to 9 LEED points in green building projects

With zero VOC emissions, HempWood is positioned as a leader in environmentally responsible construction materials.

Challenges and Future Outlook

Despite rapid growth and market expansion, HempWood faces several challenges:

• Delays in federal funding affecting cash flow.
• Competition from lower-cost conventional materials.
• The need for continued advancements in moisture resistance.

Balancing innovation, sustainability, and operational efficiency remains a priority. As demand for eco-friendly building materials continues to grow, HempWood’s commitment to sustainable manufacturing and cutting-edge research positions it as a premier alternative to traditional hardwoods.

Conclusion: The Future of Engineered Wood

HempWood is paving the way for a more sustainable, durable, and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional wood products. By prioritizing regional sourcing, carbon-negative manufacturing, and innovative research, the company is setting new standards for engineered wood in construction.

With its growing market presence, commitment to zero-waste manufacturing, and expanding global distribution, HempWood is positioned to play a significant role in the future of sustainable architecture and design.