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Holes in Structural Glued Laminated Timber (Glulam) Rim Board in Light-Frame Wood Construction

Technical Topic

Glulam rim board are highly engineered structural components that play a critical role in transferring vertical and horizontal loads in floor and roof systems. Cutting holes in these members without proper guidance can compromise their structural integrity.

This publication is designed for: builders, contractors

The publication covers allowable hole sizes, placement requirements, and best practices for field-cut holes in APA glulam rim board with a thickness of 3 1/2 inches or larger and a depth of 9 1/2 through 18 inches. It addresses common field scenarios, including holes near concentrated loads, holes over door and window openings, multiple holes, and grouped hole configurations.

Key sections include:

  • General requirements

  • Maximum allowable hole size and minimum segment length (table)

  • Application notes

Published by APA — The Engineered Wood Association.