LVL Handbook EUROPE

3. PURCHASIG, TRANSPORT, HANDLING AND STORAGE OF LVL

Storage

LVL products must be stored under cover. When storing the

products temporarily on site, a solid, straight and dry platform

should be used. The height of ground bearers (skids) must be

at least 30 cm. To avoid twisting or cracking of the product,

the bearers between packs must be aligned vertically with the

ground bears. Bearers must be of a suitable size and number

and spread evenly.

The plastic wrapping of each pack must be cut open from

underneath to enable air circulation and moisture to evaporate

from the bundles. If the products are stored on site for longer

than one week, the bundles must be covered with an additional

protective covering. The condition of the product and the pro-

tective cover should be monitored regularly during storage

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Handling and processing

LVL product packs can be unloaded on site with either a fork-

lift or a crane. When unloading with a forklift, follow the in-

structions given in the ‘Transport’ section. When unloading by

crane, approved webbing slings in proper condition and of the

appropriate strength class must be used. Do not use chains or

wires. If unloading is done manually, open the pack and carry

the products one-by-one. When cutting the banding, beware

of the band ends. LVL products should not be dragged, pushed

or dropped.

LVL is a light-weight material and is easy to shape, which

means notable time and cost savings in construction. LVL

products can be processed with conventional wood working

and power tools. There is no need for separate specialist tools.

Surface-treated products should be unloaded individually. If

needed, a cellular plastic padding that does not stain, should

be used under the webbing slings

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3.3 PROTECTING THE STRUCTURE

DURING CONSTRUCTION

LVL structures must be protected on construction site to avoid

dimensional changes and surface mould due to exposure to

moisture. Exposure to rain, splashing, and wetting from water

convection from other structures must be avoided. In addition,

the designer must ensure in the detailed design that no water

pockets can form on the product in situ.

The product may be exposed to weather for a short period

during installation. During the erection of the building, struc-

tural LVL products and elements, which are structurally glued

from LVL components, have good resistance to temporary ex-

Stora Enso

Figure 3.5.

Handling of LVL beams

Figure 3.4.

Storage of LVL packages

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LVL Handbook Europe