There has been a huge surge in the use of engineered lumber beams in the construction of homes in the U.S. in the past 25 years. One of the main reasons for the increase is that engineered lumber beams have many advantages over traditional wood beams in almost every building application.
Regardless of the type of home being built, there is an engineered product available to make the overall structure of the home stronger and more durable. Here are a few reasons why engineered lumber beams should be used in your project.
Why engineered beams should be used
Engineered lumber beams are a type of construction material that is made from a combination of wood products and adhesives. The most common type of engineered lumber beam is the I-beam, which is composed of two pieces of wood that are connected by an adhesive.
Other types include the LVL beam (which is made from laminated veneer lumber) and the PSL beam (which is made from parallam). Engineered beams are typically used in construction projects where regular lumber would not be strong enough, such as in the construction of skyscrapers. Engineered lumber products are often used in place of steel beams because it is lighter and easier to work with.
The benefits of engineered wood beams in construction
Engineered beams are made from wood that has been specially processed to create a more durable and consistent product. Unlike traditional lumber, engineered beams are free of knots and other imperfections that can weaken the structure.
In addition, they are treated with fire-retardant chemicals and designed to resist mold and rot. As a result, engineered lumber is ideal for use in construction projects where superior strength and stability is paramount.
In fact, many building codes now require the use of engineered lumber in certain applications. While the initial cost of engineered lumber may be higher than traditional lumber, the long-term benefits make it a wise investment.
How do engineered lumber beams compare to traditional wood beams
In the past, wood beams were the only option for construction projects. However, engineered lumber is now becoming more popular because of its many benefits. It is stronger and more dimensionally stable than traditional wood beams. They are also less likely to warp or twist over time.
Engineered beams can also be dressed with virtually any type of finish, making them a versatile choice for both indoor and outdoor applications. While they may cost more upfront, engineered beams offer superior performance and durability.
Where to find engineered lumber and determine its cost
Engineered lumber beams are an important component in the construction of many homes and commercial buildings. These beams are typically made from a combination of wood and metal, and they can be used to support a variety of loads.
While engineered lumber is available from many different manufacturers, it can also be custom designed to meet the specific needs of a project. In terms of cost, engineered beams typically range from $50 to $100 per linear foot, depending on the size and specifications of the beam.
How to install an engineered beam
Installing an engineered beam is not as simple as nailing it into place. In order to ensure a secure and long-lasting installation, there are several things you need to take into account. First, you need to determine the size and type of beam you will need. Then, you need to find the studs in your wall and mark their locations.
Once you have done this, you can begin attaching the beam to the studs using lag bolts or nails. It is important to make sure that the beam is level as you attach it, or else the entire structure could be compromised. With careful planning, installing an engineered beam is a relatively straightforward process.
You can find engineered lumber beams at lumber yards and they cost about the same as traditional wood beams. There are some disadvantages to using engineered lumber beams, but overall they are a great choice for construction projects.
If you have any questions about our inventory, give us a call at Northeast Lumber in Bridgeport, CT, at (203) 275-0812 or click here to see the sizes of engineered beams we have available in our yard.