Challenge
We don’t just create wood products—we craft solutions for high-end designs. From hand-selecting each board to applying our proprietary colors and stains, every piece is as unique as the space it’s designed to elevate. Executing a complex, high-visibility installation in a fully operating airport meant that every phase demanded precision and coordination. Deliveries had to be scheduled around TSA security windows and passenger traffic, with materials arriving just-in-time to avoid on-site storage issues.
The design requirements were equally demanding — long, continuous ceiling lines with virtually zero tolerance for warping or twisting. Because the fir slats needed Class A fire-rated coatings, moisture control and stability became a major concern.
“Fire-treated materials can be tricky,” Shawn explained. “They’re wet and prone to warping, so getting them to dry straight and ready to install was one of the hardest parts”
Solutions
Our commitment to sustainable practices ensures that every product is crafted with the environment in mind.
Glacier Millworks partnered directly with Swank’s team to ensure communication, precision, and performance at every step.
Collaborative problem-solving: Glacier’s craftsmen worked with Swank to refine drying and finishing methods, stabilizing the fire-treated wood before delivery and ensuring each slat maintained its form and finish.
Phased production & labeled delivery: Materials were pre-labeled, bundled by installation zone, and shipped in coordinated phases to keep the active jobsite organized and efficient.
Sustainable, locally sourced wood: All fir was responsibly harvested through Oregon Pacific and Idaho Forest Group, supporting reforestation and environmental balance.
Low-VOC, water-based finishes: A custom multi-tone stain enhanced the natural grain while maintaining healthy indoor air quality.
Fire-safety compliance: Glacier applied Class A fire-rated coatings tested to NFPA 703 and ASTM standards — ensuring the same protection level as Fire-Retardant-Treated Wood (FRTW).
Transparent communication: As Glacier scaled to meet growing demand, adding Annette Dentlus to oversee client coordination proved transformative.
Why Glacier Millworks
What Sets Glacier Apart: Anyone can ship material on a truck — but being able to stop by, see the process, talk to the people, and shake hands goes a long way. Their pricing is fair, their product is great, and their communication is solid. I’ll definitely use them again.
“Glacier Millworks really delivered for us on the Glacier International Airport project. The quality of their product, their responsiveness, and the ability to see the process firsthand made a huge difference. Their pricing was fair, their communication was great, and I’ve already recommended them to others in our office.”
ShawnProject Manager, Swank Enterprises
