Engineered Beam

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Engineered Beam

What is Engineered Beam?

An engineered beam is a manufactured structural member designed to carry loads more efficiently than solid lumber.

Description

An engineered beam is a factory-manufactured structural member made from wood strands, veneers, or laminations bonded together to achieve greater strength, consistency, and load capacity than traditional solid-sawn lumber. Common types include laminated veneer lumber (LVL), glued laminated timber (glulam), and parallel strand lumber (PSL).

In construction, engineered beams are used to span long distances, support heavy loads, and reduce the need for intermediate columns or bearing walls. They are commonly installed over large openings such as doors, windows, and garage openings, as well as in floor and roof framing systems.

From a design and performance standpoint, engineered beams offer predictable structural properties and dimensional stability. They are manufactured to precise specifications, reducing warping and shrinkage. Proper sizing, bearing, and installation are essential to meet structural and code requirements and ensure long-term performance.

FAQs

  • What is an engineered beam?

    It is a manufactured structural beam designed for strength and load-bearing performance.

  • What types of engineered beams are available?

    Common types include LVL, glulam, and PSL beams.

  • Where are engineered beams commonly used?

    They are used over large openings and in floor or roof framing systems.

  • Are engineered beams stronger than solid wood beams?

    Yes, they typically offer higher strength and more consistent performance.

  • Do engineered beams require special installation?

    They must be installed according to manufacturer specifications and structural design.

Fun Fact

Some engineered wood beams can span over 60 feet, rivaling steel beams in certain applications.

CSI Code

06 17 00

NAHB Code

610