Laminated Timber Beams

Products - Supporting Structure Although SIPs are load bearing and structurally very efficient, there are standard spanning limits for the panels, and as such SIPCO will include any necessary support members in the build kit. The spanning ability is dependant on several factors, but on most projects, such members can be restricted to purlins and/or ridge beams for the roof. The project engineer will complete a thorough assessment to determine the specific requirement for each project.These support members can be supplied as either steel or laminated timber beams, known as Glulam. The beams are integrated and supported by the SIP walls, and all beam pockets are preformed to size by SIPCO.Whilst steel offers a cost effective solution, the aesthetic benefits of glulam are often better suited to a SIP project since the panels make vaulted ceiling designs possible, and many clients prefer to leave the beams exposed as a feature.Glulam is constructed by laminating lengths of stress graded timber together, with the grain aligned along the length of the beam. The laminates can be finger jointed enabling lengths of up to 12m to be achieved.Specialist manufacturers can also create curved sections and feature beams for large portal frames, acting as a very aesthetically pleasing alternative to steel.

For more information on Laminated Timber Beams talk to SipCo