LVL (Laminated veneer lumber ) is a wood product It is most commonly used in Western countries. How far can a double LVL beam span It’s decided by the thumb rule. If you want to know LVL beam span calculator you can read our previous article. In this article, we will discuss and know, how far can a double 10”, 12”, 14″, 16”, and 18” LVL beam span.
LVL beam (Laminated Veneer Lumber)
LVL is a type of engineered wood product made from thin layers of wood that are bonded together with strong adhesives. The laminated veneer lumber is typically oriented in the same direction, which provides the LVL a superior strength and stiffness when compared to some conventional lumber. The best thing about them is that they are less likely to be wrapped, twisted, or bowed making them the best choice for a wide range of structural uses.
How far can a double 10”, 12”, 14”, 16”, and 18” LVL beam span
Let’s have a clear view of LVL and why they are best.
- LVL is a very strong material and that makes it an ideal choice for any structural application such as beams, headers, and joists.
- LVL is available in a wide range of sizes and thickness, and easily and we can find the right product according to our needs.
- LVL is more durable and is less likely to be wrapped, twisted, or bow when compared to any conventional lumber.
- LVL is relatively a sustainable material because it is made from small trees and other waste products that are primarily made of wood.
- LVL is cost-effective too cause of its strength and durability. It can lead to cost savings over time due to low maintenance and longer service life. LVL is a versatile material and thus it can used in a wide range of applications, including
- Residential construction
- Commercial Construction
- Industrial construction
- Remodeling projects
LVL beam Sizes – LVL (laminated veneer lumber size) LVL sizes vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. But there are a few standard thicknesses of it, they are 1 ¾ inches (1ply),3 ½ inches (2ply) 5 ¼ (3ply), and 7 inches (4ply)
Width of LVL beam – The typical width of an LVL beam is 1 ¾ inches. It can further be increased by laminating in multiply of 1 ¾ inches of more beam to it.
Depth of an LVL beam – The typical depth of beams varies from 5 ½ inches (140 mm), 7 ¼ inches (184 mm), 9 ¼ inches (235 mm), 9 ½ inches (241 mm), and further goes up to 23 7/8 inches (606 mm).
How far can a double 10″ LVL beam span
Based on the general thumb rule a double 10 LVL beam can span up to 16 feet. This means that the beam can support its own weight and distributed load up to 16 feet in length.
Basically, a 10” double LVL is made from laminating two LVL with a thickness of 1 ¾ inches (40 mm) and a depth of 10″.
How far can a double 12” LVL span
Based on the general thumb rule a double 12” LVL beam can span up to 12 feet. This means that the beam can support its own weight and a distributed load of up to 20 feet in length.
Basically, a 12” LVL is made from laminating of two LVL with a thickness of 1 ¾ (40 mm) and a depth of 12”.
How far can a double 14” LVL span-
Based on the general thumb rule a double 14” LVL beam can span up to 23 feet. This means that the beam can support its own weight and a distributed load of up to 23 feet in length.
Basically, a 14” LVL is made from laminating of two LVL with a thickness of 1 ¾ (40 mm) and depth of 14”.
How far can a double 16” LVL span-
Based on the general thumb rule a double 16” LVL beam can span up to 26 feet. This means that the beam can support its own weight and a distributed load of up to 26 feet in length.
Basically, a 16” LVL is made from laminating of two LVL with a thickness of 1 ¾ (40 mm) and a depth of 16”.
How far can a double 18” LVL span
Based on the general thumb rule a double 18” LVL beam can span up to 30 feet. This means that the beam can support its own weight and a distributed load of up to 30 feet in length.
Basically, an 18” LVL is made from laminating of two LVL with a thickness of 1 ¾ (40 mm) and a depth of 18”.
We will discuss a few more of the double LVL spans,
How far can a double 5 ½ LVL span
Based on the general thumb rule a double 3 ½” × 5 ½” LVL beam can span up to 10 feet far distance. When used for residential buildings.
Basically, a double 5 1/2” LVL is made by laminating two LVL with a thickness of 1 ¾ inch (40mm) and depth of 5 ½ LVL.
Conclusion
The maximum span of a double LVL beam of any length depends on a number of factors, including the type of factors, including the type of wood used, the grade of the LVL, the spacing of the supports, and the live load However as a general rule of thumb a double 10 LVL beam can span up to 20 feet and a double 5 ½ LVL beam can span up to 11 feet.