LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) and sawn timber differ primarily in their production, structural and physical properties. While sawn timber is produced by cutting and drying logs of wood, LVL is created from multiple layers of thin wood veneers, glued together under heat and pressure.
This blog explores the key differences between sawn timber and LVL. We have outlined these distinctions to help you decide which building material is best for your construction project.
LVL vs. Sawn Timber Key Differences
Construction:
Sawn Timber is produced by cutting logs into specific sizes. It includes machine-graded pine (MGP) or visually graded hardwood (F-grade). The grading is based on the natural characteristics of the timber, such as knots, splits, and density. There is no alteration of the wood’s structure during production, so the timber retains its natural grain and imperfections.
LVL is an engineered wood product made by bonding thin layers of wood (veneers) together under heat and pressure. The veneers are aligned with the grain running in the same direction, which results in higher strength and uniform structural properties. This process minimises natural defects, as imperfections in one layer are counterbalanced by the next.
Strength and Stiffness
While sawn timber, particularly MGP and F-grade hardwood, can be strong, its structural properties are naturally variable due to imperfections like knots. Larger section sizes of sawn timber are harder to source, with 290x45 mm being a common maximum readily available size.
LVL is stronger and stiffer than sawn timber due to its engineered production process. It has consistent structural properties and can be manufactured in large sizes, often up to 450x63 mm, with larger sizes available by special request. LVL's strength is higher because defects in one veneer are offset by the others, leading to a product that can be used in long spans and heavy load-bearing applications.
Length and Spans
Sawn timber sections larger than 290x45 mm are not commonly available. Lengths longer than 6 metres are also rare. LVL can be produced in much larger sections, with common sizes often up to 450x63 mm, and lengths exceeding 12 metres. This makes LVL suitable for longer spans in structural applications.
Applications
Regular timber is often preferred for visual applications due to its natural appearance and grain, sawn timber is widely used where aesthetics are important. It can be treated for higher durability (up to and exceeding H4 treatment), making it suitable for use in environments with ground contact.
LVL is predominantly used for structural applications, especially where high strength is required. It’s typically for beams, joists, and rafters. While it can be treated (H3) for use in balconies and decks, it is not usually fully exposed because its appearance is not a priority. LVL is less visually appealing compared to sawn timber.
Durability and Treatment
Solid timber can be treated to a high level of durability (up to and exceeding H4 treatment), making it suitable for outdoor and ground contact applications where high decay and insect resistance are needed. LVL can be H3 treated for exterior sheltered applications like balconies and decks, but it's not typically used in fully exposed environments.
Choosing Between LVL and Regular Wood
The choice depends on the specific application and priorities. LVL excels in applications requiring long spans, higher strength and uniformity, while sawn timber is preferred for aesthetic applications where its natural appearance and availability in visual grades are advantageous.
If you’re looking for LVL timber for your building project, Wesbeam is a great choice. For more information on our LVL products, contact us today or speak to our technical experts on e-chat.