Timber Frame Construction

LVL

LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) is a high‑performance structural wood product composed of thin veneer layers that are laminated under high pressure and temperature. This engineered structure results in an exceptionally strong, stable and dimensionally consistent material with a warm, natural appearance. LVL is suitable for both structural applications and exposed architectural elements in modern construction.

Delivery subject to stock availability.
Free pick up in our warehouse at Ghent.
Shipping within Europe possible.

Available dimensions and thickness
LVL‑P
- Thickness: 21–90 mm
- Width: 45–1830 mm
- Length: 2.5–18 m
LVL‑C
- Thickness: 27–69 mm
- Width: 45–1830 mm
- Length: 2.5–18 m
Qualities
In LVL, the veneer layers are oriented depending on the product type:
- All veneers aligned in the longitudinal direction for maximum strength → LVL‑P
- Partially cross‑laminated veneers for increased dimensional stability → LVL‑C
Key advantages
- higher load‑bearing capacity than traditional softwood
- ecological alternative to steel in many structural applications
- very high bending strength (up to approx. 50 N/mm²)
- limited shrinkage and deformation
- exceptional dimensional stability
- flat, straight and stable sections
- relatively low weight
- high shear capacity
- precise dimensions, lengths up to 13.5 m possible
- excellent workability (easy to saw, drill, screw and connect)
Applications
LVL is suitable for both new construction and renovation. Typical applications include:
- Load‑bearing beams and girders
  Used as main beams, lintels and ring beams under high loads. LVL combines maximum strength and dimensional stability in compact cross‑sections.
- Columns and vertical supports
  Ideal as vertical load‑bearing elements in timber and timber‑frame construction. LVL can carry high loads without deformation, even in slender profiles.
- Floor and roof joists
  Thanks to its high strength and stiffness, LVL is suitable for large spans and is often used in combination with I‑Joists in integrated structural systems.
- Prefab and special applications
  Widely used in stairs, frames, bridge components, industrial modules and other elements where a uniform structure and high strength class are required.
Technical specifications
Wood species
- Pinus sylvestris (pine)
Physical properties
- Density: approx. 560 kg/m³
- Colour: heartwood dark yellow to reddish‑brown; sapwood light yellow
- Dimensional stability: very high
- Impregnability: low to non‑impregnable
Mechanical performance
- Bending strength: 44 N/mm² (edge) / 50 N/mm² (flat)
- Compression strength parallel to grain: 39 N/mm²
- Shear strength: 4.6 N/mm² (edge) / 2.6 N/mm² (flat)
- Modulus of elasticity (E‑modulus): 14,000 N/mm²
Fire and emission classes
- Reaction to fire: D‑s2,d0
- Formaldehyde class: E0.5
Certification
- PEFC‑certified (sustainable forest management)