Mass timber construction is the way to go when it comes to durable, beautiful structures. The question is: should you be using glulam or CLT? Glue-laminated wood and cross-laminated timber are in the same family but have some key differences.
Should Your Project Go with Glulam or CLT?
The answer to this question will depend on what your construction manager recommends for the project. CLT is commonly used for creating strong floors, walls, and ceilings. On the other hand, glulam is generally needed for more decorative projects with durable curves and arches. Let’s take a look at which can be used for what applications:
What CLT is Used For
CLT is a modern and eco-friendly building material that’s super versatile. It’s used for making walls, floors, or ceilings in any kind of building. When you get CLT panels, they’re already prepped with everything – like holes for services and spaces for doors and windows.
It’s handy because it can replace traditional structures like studs or even concrete planks. Basically, CLT panels are made by gluing layers of solid wood together, with each layer placed at right angles to the next. This makes them strong and sturdy for big projects like floors or walls in buildings. So, when choosing a contractor, consider using CLT for a sustainable and modern touch!
Main Uses of Glulam
Glulam construction offers engineered timber products known for superior strength and stability. These beams are composed of stacked lumber adhered with precision. Because of this, they surpass conventional wood in durability and versatility. Common applications range from vaulted roofs to bridges. You’ll also find tailored fabrication to meet specific design needs.
Classification of glulam considers strength properties and appearance grades. This reliable mass timber caters to both structural and aesthetic requirements. Its use embodies environmental responsibility by utilizing smaller wood components. Glulam also adheres to forestry management standards.
Practical handling and storage practices are essential for preserving glulam integrity. Utilizing fabric slings during lifting, vertical storage, and weather protection through plastic covering are recommended. This helps to maintain glulam’s structural integrity until installation.
Deciding Which Mass Timber is Best
CLT and glulam both involve gluing layers of timber together, but they’re used differently. With CLT, the layers are crossed at right angles, while glulam layers run parallel. So, think of CLT as a special type of glulam, just made differently!
When deciding between CLT and glulam, consider what you’re building. CLT is great for making wall or floor panels, while glulam is typically used for beams in frames. If you’re covering frames, CLT is often the go-to because it’s easier to work with for large panels. Glulam can work for panels too, but if they’re big, they might warp or crack more than CLT because CLT is reinforced against cracking.
One thing to keep in mind is that CLT usually needs a crane for installation. So, if your project site can’t fit a crane, you might want to go for glulam or smaller CLT pieces instead. It’s all about picking the right construction team for the job!
Get Quality Results with Binkley Construction
Your mass timber construction team at Binkley will make the right decision on Glulam or CLT for your project. With expertise in both glue-laminated wood and cross-laminated timber, our goal is to build structures that are safe, sustainable, and attractive.
Get in touch with us today to learn more about glulam or CLT construction!
