Laminated veneer lumber, or LVL, is several layers of wood glued together to form a strong, long beam. They’re an integral piece of many stick-framed homes in Canada.
Many remodelling projects use LVL beams to replace a load-bearing wall, giving the space an open appearance. Ottawa Structural Demolition installs LVL beams all over our area and understands the best situations for these wood products.
What Are LVL Beams?
An LVL beam is a structural support component made by bonding thin wood veneers together with adhesives to form a composite material. The grain direction of all layers runs parallel for the beam’s length. This construction method enhances the beam’s strength and dimensional stability.
The key features and characteristics of LVL beams include:
Sustainable Source
The veneers are typically sourced from fast-growing and sustainable wood species. These beams came from an economic demand to use small timber unsuitable for making sawn lumber.
Manufacturing Process
In an LVL factory, workers and machines stack and glue wood veneers together under high pressure and heat.
LVL’s Uniformity
LVL beams offer consistency and uniformity in strength and dimension. This uniformity ensures predictable performance in various structural applications.
LVL’s Strength
LVL products have high strength, making them suitable for carrying heavy loads. They’re often used in construction for applications such as beams, headers, and joists.
Versatility of LVL
LVL beams are versatile and can be manufactured to custom sizes and lengths, making them adaptable to many construction needs.
Dimensional Stability
LVL is known for its dimensional stability, meaning it’s less prone to warping, twisting, or shrinking than traditional solid wood beams. This stability is advantageous in construction.
Lightweight Nature
While LVL is not as lightweight as other engineered wood products, it is lighter than equivalent solid wood beams. This characteristic can simplify handling and installation.
Cost-Effectiveness
LVL beams are often more cost-effective than some alternative materials like steel. The cost can vary based on beam dimensions, grade, and local market conditions.
Various Applications
LVL beams find applications in various construction projects, including residential and commercial buildings. They support floors, roofs, and other load-bearing components.
LVL Beam Installation Process When Replacing A Load-Bearing Wall
Installing LVL beams to replace a load-bearing wall involves a carefully planned process to ensure structural integrity and safety. Ottawa Structural Demolition’s installation process typically follows a few steps, including:
Structural Assessment
A structural engineer assesses the load-bearing capacity of the wall and designs the LVL beam system to provide appropriate support.
Designing the LVL Beam System
The engineer calculates the loads and specifies the size, type, and length of the LVL beams required to replace the load-bearing wall.
Choosing LVL Beams
Our team selects LVL beams based on the engineering specifications, ensuring they meet the necessary strength and load-bearing requirements.
Temporary Support
We install temporary supports, such as adjustable shoring posts or jacks, to hold up the ceiling during wall demolition and LVL beam installation.
Wall Removal
We carefully remove the load-bearing wall in sections to ensure no damage to the surroundings.
LVL Beam Installation
LVL beams are lifted into place using cranes or other lifting equipment. They are carefully positioned to span the opening left by the removed wall.
Attaching the LVL Beams
The LVL beams are securely attached to the surrounding structure. This may involve bolts, nails, screws, or other appropriate methods, following the engineer’s specifications.
Adding Support Columns (if needed):
Support columns may be added beneath the LVL beams to further distribute the load. These columns attach to the foundation, holding the entire structure together.
Adjusting and Aligning:
Adjusting and levelling the beam ensures it supports the load and stands the test of time. Precise measurements confirm alignment.
Removing Temporary Supports:
Once the LVL beams are securely in place and the load is adequately supported, temporary supports are carefully removed.
Structural Inspection:
A structural engineer inspects the installed LVL beams and the overall structure to ensure compliance with design specifications and safety standards.
Additional Structural Work (if needed):
Depending on the design, additional structural work may be carried out, such as installing hangers, straps, or other components to enhance stability.
Completing the System:
The engineer finalizes the permanent support system and advises on necessary adjustments or detailing.
Construction Continuation:
With the LVL beams in place, remodelling can continue with the new layout or design.
Finishing Work:
We apply finishes, such as drywall, trim, and paint, completing the aesthetic aspects of the modified space.
Final Inspection:
The city building inspector determines if all the work was completed to code and approves the building for occupancy