Structural Composite Lumber (SCL)

Why Designers & Builders Choose SCL

Structural Composite Lumber (SCL) delivers strength, precision, and versatility for demanding structural projects. Engineered from layered or laminated wood fibers, SCL enables long spans, large load capacities, and complex shapes. Key advantages include:

• Exceptional Load Capacity – Supports long spans and heavy loads with minimal deflection

• Custom Shapes – Can be fabricated into curved or tapered members for unique designs

• Consistent Performance – Engineered for uniform strength and stiffness

• Space & Material Efficiency – Longer spans reduce the need for intermediate supports

• Durable & Code-Recognized – Ideal for headers, beams, and columns; meets building codes

SCL empowers designers and builders to achieve high-performance, innovative wood constructions.

Engineered for Predictable Structural Performance

Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) is a structural composite lumber product manufactured by bonding thin wood veneers with exterior-grade adhesives. Veneers are oriented primarily in the longitudinal direction to produce uniform, predictable strength and stiffness properties suitable for demanding structural applications.

Key Characteristics

• Engineered for consistent structural properties

• Predictable strength and stiffness values established through qualification testing

• Suitable for long spans and heavily loaded members

• Available in a range of depths, thicknesses, and grades

Common Applications

• Headers and beams

• Rim boards

• Floor and roof members

• Columns and studs (where permitted by design and code)

• Concrete formwork

• Furniture frames

• Wall studs

Engineered for Dimensional Stability and Versatile Performance

Laminated Strand Lumber (LSL) is a structural composite lumber product manufactured by bonding flaked wood strands that have a length-to-thickness ratio of approximately 150 with moisture-resistant adhesive into large billets that are then resawn to specified dimensions. LSL's unique strand geometry and manufacturing process produce a highly stable, uniform product well-suited for applications where straightness, consistent sizing, and reliable performance are essential.

Key Characteristics

• Exceptional dimensional stability — virtually free from warping, twisting, and bowing

• Consistent, uniform cross-sections suitable for repetitive framing and millwork applications

• Available in a wide range of thicknesses and lengths, including sizes difficult to source in conventional lumber

• Dry, consistent moisture content reduces jobsite waste and rejected pieces

Common Applications

• Wall studs and tall-wall framing

• Rim board and band joist applications

• Headers in light-frame construction

• Door and window components

• Furniture substrate and millwork components

• Industrial packaging and crating

Engineered for Consistent Performance in Light-Frame Applications

Oriented Strand Lumber (OSL) is a structural composite lumber product manufactured by bonding flaked wood strands that have a length-to-thickness ratio of approximately 75 with moisture-resistant adhesive into large billets that are resawn to specified dimensions. OSL's compact strand geometry produces a dense, stable, and uniform product that performs consistently across a wide range of light-frame construction and industrial applications.

Key Characteristics

• Highly uniform cross-section — consistent sizing and straightness throughout

• Dimensionally stable — resistant to warping, twisting, and shrinkage

• Available in a variety of thicknesses suitable for light framing, millwork, and industrial uses

• Dry, consistent moisture content minimizes jobsite waste and material rejection

Common Applications

• Wall studs and light-frame framing members

• Rim board applications

• Millwork and door and window components

• Furniture substrate and case goods

• Industrial packaging and crating

Quality You Can Trust. Backed by APA.

APA member manufacturers produce structural composite lumber (SCL) that meets stringent quality standards verified through APA's rigorous testing and inspection programs. Specifying structural composite lumber (SCL) bearing the APA trademark, manufactured by APA members, ensures you receive products that have been qualified to published performance standards and are backed by ongoing quality assurance testing from a trusted third party.

WHAT APA MEMBERSHIP MEANS

• Manufactured to recognized U.S and Canadian standards

• Subject to ongoing quality assurance and product testing

• Produced by companies with proven expertise in engineered wood products

• Supported by APA technical resources, evaluation, and industry oversight

FIND AN SCL MANUFACTURER

Use the APA manufacturer directory to locate member manufacturers and explore the range of SCL and other engineered wood products they produce.

Browse APA MEMBER MANUFACTURERS