- Type: Made by bonding and compressing long wood strands, usually softwood, with moisture-resistant adhesive under heat and pressure, aligning the strands parallel to create strong, uniform engineered lumber.
- Core Material: Compressed wood strands (usually softwood, e.g., Southern Pine).
- Manufacturing: High-pressure pressing of oriented wood strands with adhesive.
- Layers + Construction / Adhesive Type: Multiple layers of wood strands bonded with moisture-resistant phenol-resorcinol-formaldehyde (PRF) or similar adhesives.
- Dimensions Available: Thickness Range: Typically, in (38 mm – 89 mm). Width Available: Usually in (89 mm – 305 mm). Length Available: Typically, (2.4 m – 7.3 m). These ranges can vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and regional standards.
- Density: ~39 – 45 lb/ft³ (625 – 720 kg/m³).
- Moisture Resistance (MR): Moderate to high; designed for structural applications with MR rated adhesives.
- Fire Rating: Varies; generally, Class B (or as per ASTM E84 standards) when treated.
- Formaldehyde Emissions: Low to negligible with modern E0/E1 adhesives.
- Janka Hardness: ~550 – 700 lbf (depending on wood species)
- Modulus of Elasticity (MOE): ~1.9 – 2.3 million psi (13,100 – 15,900 MPa).
- Modulus of Rupture (MOR): ~2,500 – 3,500 psi (17 – 24 MPa).
- Dimensional Stability: Excellent; engineered for minimal shrinkage or warping.
- Surface Finish: Smooth, sanded for structural use; paintable or veneered.
- Color / Appearance: Light tan to medium brown; uniform texture.
- Durability: High; suitable for interior and protected exterior structural use.
- Mechanical Properties: Strong in bending, compression, and shear; predictable structural performance.
- Stability: Very stable; engineered for minimal deflection under load.
- Water Resistant: Limited; can resist moisture better than solid lumber if sealed or treated.
- Workability: Easy to cut, drill, and fasten with standard woodworking tools.
- Screw Holding Strength: High; better than standard plywood but lower than LVL in some cases.
- Edge Integrity: Good; edges hold screws and nails well; minimal splintering.
- Eco Certification: Often available with FSC or PEFC certification.
- Estimated Prices: ~$700 – $1,200 per m³ (varies by region, thickness, and supplier).
- Use Cases: Beams, headers, rim boards, studs, joists, lintels, and structural framing in residential and commercial construction.
