Microlam, also known as laminated veneer lumber (LVL), is a strong type of engineered wood made by gluing thin sheets of wood together in alternating directions. It is used for carrying beams, joists, and headers in construction projects and is straighter and smoother than milled lumber. Microlam saves space and allows for fewer support posts, making it economical to use. It is also less likely to deform over time and offers greater safety and long-term benefits to homeowners.
A microlam, sometimes called a lam beam or laminated veneer lumber (LVL), is a type of engineered wood. It is notable because it is much stronger than plywood although it is made in a similar way. There are many uses for strong wood such as microlam, but it can be very expensive when compared to other materials, so the use of lam beams is usually reserved for cases where a large amount of strength is needed. Common uses include carrying beams, joists and headers.
The way microlam is made is the secret to its strength. Like plywood, thin sheets of wood are glued together to create beams. Each layer is glued in such a way that the direction of the grain alternates, providing strength in every direction. The glue is very strong and when the whole beam is put together, it is heavy and considered to be of build quality.
A microlam beam usually looks a lot like plywood. It generally has a smooth face with identifiable straight coats running in parallel. These layers are usually visible on two sides of the beam, although they can be hidden. Microlam beams come in a variety of sizes for different purposes. They can also be bolted together, making for a stronger main beam.
While lam beams are mostly used in new construction projects, they are also useful when expanding a home. Tearing out exterior walls for additions may require the use of strong, compact beams like these. Consultation with a qualified building professional is a good strategy to determine what type of lumber is best for the project, but hardware store personnel may be able to help determine if a lam beam is needed.
The main benefit of a microlam beam is that it can do the job of a larger piece of wood while using less space. It is therefore economical to use this type of wood only when such characteristics will be an advantage. Replacing joists that have begun to sag in a home with laminated beams may not be warranted because there will be little benefit. In new construction using lam beams saves space and allows for fewer support posts.
There are other benefits to using this type of engineered lumber over milled lumber. Lam beams are generally straighter and smoother than their milled counterparts. Composite beams like these are often at a lower risk of deformation over time, such as warping, shrinking or sagging. This wood offers reliability due to its artificial nature. While natural materials and techniques are desirable for some purposes, using engineered materials in construction offers greater safety and long-term benefits to homeowners.
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