Laminated Veneer Lumber Sizes

Standard Sizes

• The size of LVL depends upon the manufacturer. Available thickness from Georgia Pacific, for instance, include 1 ¾ inches and 3 ½ inches. Standard depths are 9 ¼ inches, 9 ½ inches, 11 ¼ inches, 11 7/8 inches, 14 inches, 16 inches and 18 inches. Standard lengths are 24 feet, 28 feet, 32 feet, 36 feet, 40 feet, 44 feet and 48 feet.

Qualities of LVL

• Laminated veneer lumber is stiff, stable, has a high strength-to-weight ratio and resists warping, shrinking, checking and splitting. The resin used in the manufacturer of LVL instills a moisture-resistant barrier. Unlike standard lumber, LVL has no knots or other defects that need to be cut out, resulting in less wasted material.

Uses for LVL

• Compared to standard lumber, LVL has a higher tensile strength, allowing it to handle more weight along its length without bowing. Therefore, it is often used in areas where weight needs to be supported by long beams such as roof supports and garages. It is also used for window and door headers, ridge beams, stair stringers and other areas where weight-carrying beams are required.

Storage and Handling

• LVL should be stored on a raised platform, laid flat and in a weather protected area. Keep LVL in its wrapped bundles until ready to use. Designed to be used in dry, covered locations, LVL should also be kept protected at the job site.