Wesbeam LVL has a high strength-to-weight ratio due to the properties of Maritime Pine combined with our unique engineering and manufacturing process. This makes it a suitable replacement for steel in many structures. LVL is easy to work with and reduces the overall amounts of material needed in a project.
The Coefficient of Variation (COV) is the degree to which a product varies in deflection along the length of any one piece. Wesbeam manufactured LVL has a COV of 9% which is favourably comparable with steel’s 7% COV. The COV of traditional milled timber can vary from 25 to 38%.
This low COV means Wesbeam LVL products behave consistently with high levels of performance predictability so there are no surprises.
Wesbeam manufactured LVL is up to 30% lighter than an equivalent piece of hardwood making it easier and safer to work with. Often, mechanical lifting isn’t necessary which speeds up the construction process.
Wesbeam LVL also has smooth, chamfered edges for safe, splinter-free handling.
Wesbeam LVL is easily sawn and connected unlike steel which requires specialist equipment to cut and weld. And being Australian-made, it is quarantined from exchange rate fluctuations giving builders greater certainty and control over building costs.
A nationwide network of suppliers means materials can be delivered onsite with very short lead times.
Standard Wesbeam LVL is available in lengths up to 13.2 metres and longer custom lengths can be manufactured on request. The design flexibility of LVL - and the variety of sizes readily available - gives builders the potential of less wastage.
Construction using concrete and steel contributes around 40% of the world’s carbon emissions. Steel is made from iron ore - a non-renewable resource - using vast quantities of irreplaceable fossil fuels such as oil and gas.
All Wesbeam products are manufactured from renewable, sustainably grown trees. Trees grow on solar energy whilst absorbing carbon dioxide and make a net nitrogen contribution back to the soil. So it’s a win-win for the environment.
Sustainably sourced timber is renewable, recyclable and biodegradable; and its production and processing are energy efficient. Trees store carbon and structures made from Wesbeam LVL help to reduce carbon in our atmosphere.
LVL timber is highly durable if treated correctly. It's made by gluing together many thin layers of wood, which helps prevent warping and shrinking. LVL can also support heavier loads and span longer distances than normal timber. Depending on its treatment, LVL can also be used outdoors.
Most untreated LVL on the Australian market has low natural durability. Wesbeam LVL can be preservative treated to levels up to H3, to increase the level of durability and range of applications.