What Is an LVL Beam Used For?
There's a lot to love about LVL beams
Highlights
LVL beams are engineered wood products used in nearly all homes today.
These composite beams consist of several layers of thin wood held together by adhesive.
LVL beams are extremely durable and ideal for both interior and exterior use.
You may need to worry about warping concerns in some instances.
LVL beams typically cost around $30–$12 per lin. ft.
If you're looking for engineered wood beams for your upcoming home project, LVL beams should certainly be at the top of the list. As one of the strongest engineered wood products available, LVL is great for stabilizing heavy loads. But what is an LVL beam? This guide will help you become familiar with this popular building option.
What Is an LVL Beam?
A laminated veneer lumber (LVL) beam is a commonly used engineered wood product. In fact, LVL beams are used throughout nearly every room when building a home. As a type of structural composite lumber (SCL), the LVL beam is constructed using several thin layers of wood held together with an adhesive.
While you can use many types of wood to make LVL beams, most are made from Douglas fir, pine, spruce, poplar, acacia, eucalyptus, and rubber trees.
Where Are LVL Beams Used?
Home builders use LVL beams in a variety of different ways. They are suitable for both interior and exterior use. Here are the most common uses for LVL beams:
I-beam joists for flooring spans
Headers for wide windows
Carrying beams
Rim boards
Roof trusses
Patio doors
Openings around garage doors
Decks
Open-concept kitchens
Advantages of LVL Beams
You might consider LVL beams for a new build, renovation, restoration, or addition. With so many options available today for construction materials, it's important to know the advantages and disadvantages of every choice. Here are the primary benefits of choosing LVL beams.
Pros:
Due to the manufactured aspect of LVL beams, you aren't bound by the log length.
LVL beams come in different widths, lengths, and thicknesses.
They are versatile enough to be used throughout a home.
They are less expensive than many other timber options.
They are extremely resilient against wind, heavy loads, and more.
Quality control during LVL production is excellent and comes with minimal defects.
LVL beams are available in many different shapes.
Disadvantages of LVL Beams
When constructing buildings, LVL beams have gained popularity for their strength and versatility. However, like any building material, LVL beams also come with their own set of drawbacks. Understanding these limitations can help builders and homeowners decide whether LVL beams are right for their construction projects.
Cons:
The layered design of LVL beams can cause warping or splitting.
LVL beams can experience delamination.
Each brand has precise installation requirements.
Specific conditions must be met when storing LVL during projects to avoid rot.
LVL is not ideal for external facades unless you apply a special treatment.
You can't generally drill holes into LVL beams.
LVL Beam Cost
The average LVL beam cost is $3 to $12 per linear foot. If you're hiring professionals to install LVL beams, installation costs range from $50 to $200 per linear foot.
Based on what you plan to do with your LVL beam, it's critical to call everyone from a licensed architectural engineer to a local foundation repair contractor to ensure you use the right beam size and placement for your renovation project.
Frequently Asked Questions
LVL beams can span up to 60 feet. However, the standard size for most LVL beams is between 24 feet and 44 feet. Longer beams may be available on request from specialized suppliers. When planning a project, it's essential to understand the difference between joists versus beams to ensure you're spacing beams properly.
The standard thickness for an LVL beam is between 1.75 inches and 7 inches. However, you can order LVL beams in non-standard sizes as well. When you work with a contractor, they can source beams that are the appropriate size for your project for you after assessing your blueprints.
Because of their composite structure, cutting or drilling LVL beams can compromise their integrity. We strongly advise contacting a general contractor or structural engineer before making any alterations to LVL beams. Professionals can also answer questions about choosing between a pier and beam versus slab foundation when designing your project.
Yes, you can paint or finish LVL beams. Some people apply paint or coating to cover up the dull or patchy look left behind by the resins used when manufacturing LVL beams. It's essential to prepare the surface properly before painting. This includes cleaning the beams and ensuring they are free of dust, dirt, and any loose particles. You should also apply a primer before painting to get a smooth, even finish.