- Type: Made of long, peeled veneer strands from softwoods (commonly Douglas Fir or Southern Pine) that are coated with a strong, moisture-resistant adhesive and pressed under heat and pressure with all strands aligned parallel to the board’s length.
- Core Material: Long, peeled veneer strands from softwoods (usually Douglas Fir or Southern Pine).
- Manufacturing: Strands are coated with adhesive and pressed into large billets under heat and pressure.
- Layers + Construction / Adhesive Type: Strands aligned parallel and bonded with phenol-resorcinol-formaldehyde (PRF) or other moisture-resistant adhesives.
- Dimensions Available: Thickness Range: Typically, in (44 mm – 89 mm). Width Available: Usually in (89 mm – 305 mm). Length Available: Typically, (2.4 m – 18.3 m). These dimensions can vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and regional standards.
- Density: ~42 – 50 lb/ft³ (670 – 800 kg/m³)
- Moisture Resistance (MR): High; adhesives are water-resistant, suitable for structural use.
- Fire Rating: Varies by treatment; generally, Class B or per ASTM E84 standards.
- Formaldehyde Emissions: Very low (E0/E1), safe for indoor use.
- Janka Hardness: ~650 – 900 lbf (varies by species).
- Modulus of Elasticity (MOE): ~2.0 – 2.4 million psi (13,800 – 16,500 MPa).
- Modulus of Rupture (MOR): ~2,800 – 4,000 psi (19 – 28 MPa).
- Dimensional Stability: Excellent; engineered for minimal shrinkage, twist, or warp.
- Surface Finish: Smooth, sanded; can be painted, stained, or laminated.
- Color / Appearance: Light to medium brown; consistent grain and texture.
- Durability: High; suitable for interior and protected exterior structural applications.
- Mechanical Properties: Very strong in bending, compression, and shear; predictable and uniform strength.
- Stability: Very stable; minimal deflection under load.
- Water Resistant: Limited; performs best in dry or properly sealed conditions.
- Workability: Can be cut, drilled, and fastened with standard woodworking tools.
- Screw Holding Strength: High; better than LVL or LSL in many applications due to long strand alignment.
- Edge Integrity: Excellent; edges resist splitting and hold fasteners securely.
- Eco Certification: Often available with FSC or PEFC certification.
- Estimated Prices: ~$900 – $1,500 per m³ (varies by region, length, and thickness).
- Use Cases: Beams, headers, columns, lintels, rim boards, and heavy structural framing in residential, commercial, and industrial construction.
