LVL Handbook EUROPE

2. LVL STRUCTURES IN FLOORS, WALLS, ROOFS AND IN SPECIAL APPLICATIONS

Eurofins

2.1 GENERAL

LVL is available in a large variety of standard stock sizes, as

well as in user-defined cross sections. Tall and slim beams and

studs are useful, for example, for reducing heat loss through

wall, floor and roof structures, while optimized cross section

improve material efficiency and high bending stiffness mini-

mizes deflection. Long LVL beams are well suited as headers

and multi-span purlins in roof constructions. LVL can be eas-

ily combined with other structures with standard connection

parts and simple joint details. LVL material values and design

methods are carefully tested to provide reliable information

for designer to specify robust load-bearing wooden structures.

LVL-P has the highest bending strength and stiffness

properties and is therefore the standard choice for beam struc-

tures. However, sometimes structural details can cause local

stresses, such as connection forces at an angle to the grain, and,

in such cases, LVL-C with its reinforcing cross-bonded veneers

is the preferred product. LVL-C has better stiffness, resistance

and dimensional stability in the cross direction and is therefore

recommended for members mainly loaded in the cross direc-

tion, such as rim boards.

2.2 FLOOR STRUCTURES

LVL offers numerous alternatives for creating floor structures,

from traditional joist floors to stressed-skin panels andmassive

floor panels. LVL-P joists have precise dimensions and good

modulus of elasticity, which are important for a robust and

convenient floor. Stressed-skin panels can achieve the longest

spans, andmassive LVL panels minimize the height of the floor

structure. Straight, precise and dry LVL-P joists are ideally suit-

ed for off-site production of floor elements.

2.2.1 Beam& joist floors

In wooden joist floors the serviceability design of deflections

and human-induced vibration from walking are usually the

most important design tasks. Wooden joists are strong, so

the strength design is rarely an issue if the supports are wide

enough. LVL joists are ideal for timber frame floors as they are

rigid and straight with accurate dimensions. They are supplied

at a moisture content close to that of the ready building, which

reduces deformation and creaking.

Figure 2.2.

LVL-P joist floor structures.

Figure 2.3.

Joist hanger connections of floor joists.

LVL Handbook Europe