How do you connect exposed glulam beams?

Exposed glulam connections must balance structural performance with visual quality. Options include: concealed steel plates (slotted into the beam end, invisible from outside — premium aesthetic), expressed steel brackets (visible metalwork as architectural feature — industrial aesthetic), timber-to-timber joints (traditional joinery adapted for glulam — craft aesthetic), and glued-in rod connections (threaded rods bonded into pre-drilled holes — completely invisible).

Exposed glulam connections must balance structural performance with visual quality. Options include: concealed steel plates (slotted into the beam end, invisible from outside — premium aesthetic), expressed steel brackets (visible metalwork as architectural feature — industrial aesthetic), timber-to-timber joints (traditional joinery adapted for glulam — craft aesthetic), and glued-in rod connections (threaded rods bonded into pre-drilled holes — completely invisible). For architectural applications, concealed connections are most common, requiring CNC-machined slots in the beam ends to house steel plates and dowels.

Why this matters

This question relates to Glulam Beam Design: Aesthetic & Structural Possibilities, which covers the broader topic in detail. Understanding this specific aspect helps architects, builders, and timber dealers make informed specification decisions.

For full context and additional technical detail, see our comprehensive guide:

→ Glulam Beam Design: Aesthetic & Structural Possibilities

Related questions

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About this answer

This answer is part of the PuurModulair Knowledge Base — comprehensive timber specification guidance for architects, builders, and dealers across the UK, EU, and Scandinavia.