

While LVL beams can span between 20 and 30 feet, Glulam beams can span over 100 feet. If you’re wondering how far Glulam beams can span, you’re not alone. Glulam is often used for structural applications, such. Glulam is stronger and more durable than conventional sawn timber. This grade of glulam is available only through special order and usually is reserved for special situations or predetermined areas, where a high concentration of people is expected. LVL and glulam differ in their bending properties. Sample prices: 445 to 500 for a 5-1/4-inch by 13-3/4-inch treated glulam beam. LVL is always a major part of your materials cost for an addition, room bump-out, or wall elimination for an open floor plan home. This grade offers a high-quality finished product, where wooden voids and imperfections are filled or treated to provide a smoother, more attractive surface. Microllam and most other LVL runs high per linear foot because of the high degree of manufacturing that goes into each piece. When glulam is going to be used as a facade material or exposed element, architectural-grade appearance is highly recommended. This appearance grade shows some wood imperfection on its surfaces, such as knots and voids.

It should be used in areas not visible to the general public. Under this appearance grade, the glulam is finished slightly better than with the framing grade, but it is not an aesthetic product. Industrial-grade appearance for glulam material is recommended for areas where the aesthetics are not a major concern. This grade is recommended only for use in concealed areas. Framing appearance grade is the common choice for home-building and other areas where glulam is specified and will be combined with dimension lumber.
