In modern construction, innovation meets functionality. Glulam beams’ custom shapes are crafted through the meticulous lamination of timber. They offer a canvas for creative expression in structural design. Glulam beam custom shapes achieve traditional aesthetics seamlessly intertwined with cutting-edge engineering.
Custom Decorative and Structural Glulam Beams
Glulam beams come in various custom shapes tailored to diverse decorative structures. These include straight beams, ideal for conventional applications, and curved beams, which add a touch of artistic flair. Radial arches, with their circular elegance, showcase the potential for unique designs. Tudor arches, characterized by a wide and flattened pointed shape, harken back to a classic architectural period. Whether it’s the simplicity of straight beams or the charm of Tudor arches, glulam offers a versatile palette for contractors.
- Straight Beams
- Curved Beams
- Pitched Beams
- Radial Arches
- Tudor Arches
1) Straight Beams
A straight beam is a long, straight structural member made by laminating and gluing together multiple layers of dimensioned lumber. These individual pieces, known as laminations, are usually oriented with their grain parallel to the length of the beam. This arrangement distributes the load evenly along the length of the beam. It provides the structural strength needed for various building projects.
2) Curved Beams
These are engineered wood products that share similarities with straight glulam beams. The difference is they’re specifically designed and manufactured with a curved or arched shape. These beams are created by laminating and gluing together layers of dimensioned lumber in a way that produces a curved profile.
The process of curved beams involves shaping and bonding individual layers of lumber to achieve the desired curve. The curvature can vary widely, from gentle arcs to more complex and tightly curved shapes. It depends on the design requirements of the specific project.
3) Pitched Beams
In the context of construction, “pitched” typically refers to an inclined or sloped surface. A pitched roof, for example, is a roof that slopes, and the term “pitch” describes the steepness or angle of the slope.
Therefore, they usually refer to beams that are part of a structure with a sloped or pitched roof. These beams are designed to support the load of the roof and transfer it to the supporting walls or columns. The design of pitched beams considers the forces acting on them. This is due to both vertical loads (e.g., the weight of the roof) and horizontal loads (e.g., wind or snow loads on the sloped roof).
4) Radial Arches
Radial arches are characterized by their consistent curvature radiating from a central point. It makes them a distinctive architectural feature with both structural and aesthetic significance. The curvature of these arches varies in terms of span and rise, depending on the design and structural needs of the project.
Being symmetrical around a central axis, radial arches contribute to visual balance and harmony in their designs. Structurally, they efficiently distribute loads, transferring vertical forces to supporting structures. The aesthetic appeal of radial arches is evident in their common use for doorways and entrances. This is usually where an arched design creates a grand and inviting entrance.
Additionally, they’re often employed for arched windows, providing architectural character and visual interest. Radial arches are found in covered walkways or arcades, adding both functional and decorative elements to such spaces. In bridge design, these arches can span rivers or other obstacles. They bring adaptability across various architectural styles and preferences.
5) Tudor Arches
A Tudor arch is a specific style of arch commonly associated with the Tudor architectural period. It spanned England’s late 15th to the early 17th centuries. Tudor architecture is known for its distinctive features, and the Tudor arch is a characteristic element.
These arches can be found in various structures from the Tudor period. Typically they include manor houses, churches, and other buildings. They are often featured in doorways, windows, and architectural detailing. They greatly contribute to the overall character of Tudor-style architecture.
It’s worth noting that while they’re a distinctive feature of Tudor architecture, the term “Tudor arch” is also sometimes used more broadly. It describes similar arch forms used in later architectural styles inspired by or reminiscent of the Tudor period. In these cases, the arches may exhibit variations while still capturing the essence.
Choosing Superior Quality for Commercial Structures
The choice of superior materials is paramount for durability and aesthetics. Glue-laminated timber beams, with their unmatched integrity and adaptability, stand out as a prime solution for excellence. The versatility of glulam beams extends to custom shapes, ranging from the sleek lines of beams to the artistic curves of arches. This array of options provides functional strength while allowing for distinctive and striking commercial structures.
Elevate your projects with the excellence of glulam beams custom shapes! For a construction partner committed to quality craftsmanship and innovation, contact us today.
