4 Best Practices for Glulam Installation

With higher strength and better dimensional stability than solid-sawn lumber, glulam offers designers and builders an ideal solution for framing long spans, tall walls, and traditional beams and headers in residential construction.

This publication is designed for: builders, designers, contractors

Glulam beams install with the same general techniques and tools as dimension lumber and other engineered wood products. However, as engineered components, glulam beams are used for applications where they will be highly stressed under design loads. It is important to follow manufacturer and industry instructions for installation, from beam positioning to fastening and cutting.

This publication provides four guidelines to ensure proper glulam installation.

Key sections include:

• Check before notching and drilling holes in glulam beams

• Use glulam for straight and true columns

• Protect untreated beams from the elements

• Use proper connection details

Published by APA — The Engineered Wood Association.