Laminated timber
From MaterialProject.org, the free architectural material catalog
Contents |
Material analysis
MasterFormat Number: 061800
Traditional uses
- Is used in complete structural systems of large, open spaces
- Stair treads and stringers
- Exterior and Interior Walls, Ceilings, Floors, and Exposed Structures
Emerging uses / trends
- main constitutional element of goods such as furniture, pianos and doors
Finish and aesthetic qualities
Finish
- Timbers can have textured surfaces (such as rough sawn) or they can be stained or painted to match or meet traditional or historic appearance requirements
Aesthetic Qualities
- Surface appearance is divided into four gradations (industrial, framing, architectural, and premium) relative to the aesthetic appearance of the laminated timber.
Surface forms / shapes
- Laminated timber is manufactured in softwoods and hardwoods
- The most popular softwood species are Douglas Fir, Southern Pine and Alaskan Yellow Cedar.
Cost analysis
- Price per Linear Foot: $3 (minimum)
Material properties
Primary structural use
- Compression
Dimensional and opening restriction
Dimensional Restrictions
- Width:
- Western Species & Hardwoods: 2 ½” to 14 ¼”;
- Southern Pine: 2 ½” to 10 ½”
- Depth:
- Western Species & Hardwoods: All depths based on multiples of 1 ½” thick laminations;
- Southern Pine: All depths based on multiples of 1 3/8” thick laminations;
- Practical depths are to 72 inches.
- Length:
- Typically, any length up to 60 feet
- Custom lengths of up to 175 feet are possible depending on manufacturer
Openning Restrictions
- Horizontal holes:
- Generally, shall not be greater than 1”; For larger diameters, obtain the advice of a structural engineer or contact the beam manufacturer.
- Holes should be restricted to the middle third of the span only.
- Vertical holes:
- Suitability will depend on the size and location of the hole. Seek advice from a structural engineer or the beam manufacturer
Manufacturing process and assembly
Uniform thicknesses of wood spread with waterproof glue are sandwiched together under high pressure in a form matching the desired shape for the member.
Environment and Life Safety
Environmental impact
Laminated timber can use fast-growing trees that are responsibly grown and harvested in its manufacture allowing for high efficiency use of timber. The binders used in the lamination process can offgas formaldehyde based on their composition. Some manufacturers are now beginning to use formaldehyde-free binders along with certified wood.
Flammability rating
- Large laminated timbers burn slowly when exposed to a severe fire and do not twist or spall.
References
Notes
Student contributions
- Seth Novick, Fall 2005
- Neha Sethi, Spring 2008
See also
Similar materials
Building references
- Back Bay T station
External links
Leading manufacturers
- Weyerhaeuser, 200 E. Mallard Drive, P.O. Box 60, Boise, ID 83707, (888) 650-6332
- Georgia-Pacific Corp., 133 Peachtree Street N.E., Atlanta, GA 30303, (800) 225-6119
- Boise Engineered Wood Products, 1111 West Jefferson Street, P.O. Box 50, Boise, ID 83728, (800) 237-4013

