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Engineered Timber · For Architects
LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) provides higher strength and stiffness than solid or glulam timber at smaller cross-section. Specification requires the manufacturer's grade designation and verification of moisture conditions.
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NBS-format clause, common errors checklist, and standards reference. Editable PDF format ready for your tender documents.
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Specification Checklist
Manufacturer-specific (e.g., Kerto-S, Kerto-Q). Each has distinct strength and stiffness values.
Width × depth in mm. LVL is typically thinner than glulam for same load.
1 or 2 only — LVL is not suitable for SC3 (fully exposed external).
Bolted or screwed to engineer's details. Edge distances per Eurocode 5.
Charring rate is similar to glulam but check manufacturer's data for specific product.
Example Clause (NBS Format)
LAMINATED VENEER LUMBER (LVL) BEAMS Specification: - Grade: Kerto-S or equivalent BBA-certified LVL, all veneers parallel - Section: As shown on structural drawings - Manufacturer: Metsä Wood, Stora Enso, or equivalent, with valid CE Declaration of Performance - Service class: 1 (heated internal) per EN 1995-1-1 - Moisture content: 10% at delivery - Marking: CE marked, with grade stamp visible Connections: - Bolts: Stainless steel M10 minimum, washers under bolt heads and nuts - Screws: Self-tapping structural screws to manufacturer specification - Edge distances: Per EN 1995-1-1 Section 8 Cutting: - All cuts made on bandsaw with carbide blade - Cut ends sealed with end-grain sealer if exposed to humidity changes Fire performance: Notional charring rate 0.65 mm/min per EN 1995-1-2 (verify with manufacturer for specific product)
Copy and paste this clause into your tender. Adjust dimensions, grades, and project-specific requirements.
Common Errors
LVL exposed externally without protection
Correction: LVL is Service Class 1–2 only. Never specify for fully exposed external use. Use glulam or treated solid timber.
Notching LVL
Correction: LVL veneers run parallel to length. Notching destroys this — use full section.
Generic LVL grade
Correction: Each manufacturer has different grades (Kerto-S, Kerto-Q, etc.). Specify the exact grade or "or equivalent BBA-certified".
Reference Standards
Frequently Asked
LVL has thinner veneers (3mm) glued parallel along the length. Glulam has thicker laminations (33–45mm) glued parallel. LVL achieves higher strength and stiffness in smaller sections; glulam is more architecturally expressive at large dimensions.
Per cubic metre, similar. Per structural performance, LVL is often more cost-effective for slim hidden beams (lintels, headers). Glulam is more cost-effective for large architectural sections.
No. LVL is structural only — it has no natural durability. Use treated softwood, hardwood, or thermo-modified timber for external surfaces.
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