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When it comes to engineered versus traditional lumber, there are many factors to consider: cost, weight, workability, and waterproofing. But before we dive into the pros and cons of each lumber type, let’s stroll down memory lane and see how we even arrived at this decision.
However, not all engineered wood is the same, instead offering varying levels of affordability, durability, and eco-friendliness. Below, we compare popular options—OSB vs. LSL vs. LVL vs Glulam—to help you determine which type of beam best fulfills your specific needs.
I am gaining a ever increasing aversion to standard dimensional lumber and so gravitate towards the engineered alternatives. The two notable ones I see are TimberStrand LSL and Versa-Stud LVL. My online (public pricing) searches come up with: 1. DF/SPF 2x4x8 = $3-$4. 2.
The downside: Engineered beams may cost three times as much as Douglas-fir dimensional lumber. For manufacturers, engineered lumber represents a market opportunity just as supplies of tight-grained, old-growth timber dwindle and complaints about inferior fast-growth timber increase.
The manufacturing processes required for wood products add costs, making engineered lumber more expensive per linear foot than traditional sawn lumber. "The benefit is realized in total installed cost of the product," according to Mike O'Day, manager of engineered lumber for Georgia Pacific.
While engineered wood is generally cheaper than solid wood, certain types like LSL can be more expensive than dimensional lumber. It is important to assess the budget and project requirements to determine which option is more cost-effective in the long run.
Many species can be used interchangeably without impacting performance. This efficient use of wood fibre adds to its eco-friendly benefits and makes it an attractive alternative to more carbon-intensive materials. Like most wood products, it is well-suited to prefabrication. LSL is a cost-effective solution for a wide range of framing applications.
Laminated-strand lumber (LSL) and oriented-strand lumber (OSL) aren’t as strong as PSL or LVL, so they’re most commonly used as rim board, studs, and short headers. The main difference between these two materials has to do with the way they are manufactured.
The company has two product options that meet the code: Laminated strand lumber (LSL), which can be used in place of traditional I-joists with no modification, or LP FlameBlock I-joist, designed for builders who want an I-joist solution rather than a solid solution like the LSL.
Comparing Structural Composite Lumber with Traditional Wood. While traditional lumber boasts a greener and more natural image in the minds of many, the benefits of SCL are evident; let's break down the differences.