When it comes to modern construction, choosing the right structural materials can make or break your build. Literally. Laminated Veneer Lumber, or LVL timber, has become a trusted choice across residential, commercial, and industrial construction for good reason. Known for its strength, durability, and consistency, LVL is increasingly favoured by builders, developers, and contractors who want to maximise both performance and efficiency.
In this article, we’ll break down what LVL timber is, why it’s gaining popularity, and the advantages it offers over traditional timber in building projects of all sizes.
What is LVL Timber?
LVL stands for Laminated Veneer Lumber. It’s a high-performance engineered wood product made by bonding multiple thin layers of timber veneer together with strong adhesives. These layers are aligned in the same direction, resulting in a material that’s incredibly stable and structurally sound.
LVL timber is designed for load-bearing structural applications and is commonly used in wall framing, floor joists, roof trusses, lintels, and beams. Its reliability and strength have made it a go-to alternative to traditional sawn timber.
How Laminated Veneer Lumber is Made
The manufacturing process for LVL begins by peeling thin veneers from sustainably harvested logs. These veneers are dried, glued, and laid up in a parallel pattern before being pressed under heat into large billets. Once cured, the billets are cut into various sizes to suit different construction needs.
The result is a dense, durable timber product that performs consistently across a range of applications, even in demanding environments.
7 Advantages of Using LVL Timber in Building Projects
Let’s take a closer look at why more professionals are turning to LVL timber in construction.
High Strength and Load-Bearing Capacity
LVL is engineered to be stronger than standard sawn timber. Its uniform grain orientation and tight bonding mean it can handle greater loads without bending or buckling. This makes it ideal for structural components like headers, floor bearers, and lintels, where strength and reliability are non-negotiable.
Dimensional Stability and Consistency
Because LVL is manufactured under controlled conditions, you get a consistent, predictable product every time. There are no knots, splits, or grain irregularities to work around, which helps streamline planning and reduce surprises on site.
Lightweight and Easy to Handle On-Site
Despite its strength, LVL timber is relatively lightweight, which makes it easier to transport, manoeuvre, and install, especially in tight or elevated spaces. This ease of handling can help improve job site safety and reduce labour strain.
Reduced Warping, Splitting, and Shrinking
Traditional timber can warp, twist, or split as it dries and ages. LVL’s engineered design minimises these issues. Because the veneers are dried before lamination and bonded under pressure, the final product is dimensionally stable, even in environments with changing humidity or temperature.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Material
LVL timber uses smaller, fast-growing plantation logs, which helps reduce pressure on old-growth forests. The manufacturing process maximises timber use by peeling logs efficiently and producing minimal waste. As a result, it’s a more environmentally responsible choice without sacrificing strength or performance.
Faster Construction and Less Waste
The consistent size and performance of LVL timber allow for faster installation. There’s less need for trimming, sorting, or rejecting materials, which means less on-site waste and a cleaner work environment. Builders also appreciate being able to plan confidently, knowing each piece will perform as expected.
Cost-Effective Over the Long Term
While the upfront cost of LVL timber may be slightly higher than conventional timber, the long-term benefits often outweigh the difference. Reduced labour time, fewer material defects, and longer-lasting structural integrity all add up to savings across the life of a project.
LVL Timber vs Traditional Timber: What’s the Difference?
Traditional sawn timber is milled directly from logs and can vary significantly in quality, grain, and strength. This natural variability can lead to inconsistencies in construction, requiring builders to sort and cut around imperfections.
LVL timber, on the other hand, is manufactured to be uniform and reliable. Its structural performance is more predictable, making it better suited for critical load-bearing applications. It also performs better in larger spans, is less likely to warp or crack, and provides a more sustainable alternative due to its efficient use of timber resources.
While traditional timber still has its place, particularly in non-structural or decorative applications, LVL is a clear winner for structural reliability and overall efficiency in modern builds.
To learn more about the advantages of LVL timber, or to place an order, get in touch with the team at Canterbury Timber. We offer a wide range of LVL timber products, as well as a cutting and milling service to take the stress out of finding the right size of timber for the job. Not sure where to get started? No worries - just contact us and we’ll be happy to help!
LVL Timber FAQs
What is LVL timber used for in building?
LVL timber is commonly used for structural applications including beams, lintels, rafters, floor joists, and wall framing. It’s a versatile product suited to both residential and commercial construction.
Is LVL stronger than regular timber?
Yes. LVL timber offers greater strength and load-bearing capacity than standard sawn timber, thanks to its engineered design and consistent grain orientation.
Does LVL timber resist warping and shrinking?
LVL is less prone to warping, shrinking, or splitting compared to natural timber, thanks to its kiln-dried veneers and layered construction.
Is LVL environmentally sustainable?
LVL uses smaller, plantation-grown logs and produces less waste in manufacturing. It’s a more efficient use of raw materials and is widely considered an eco-conscious option in the building industry.
Can LVL timber help reduce building time and cost?
Absolutely! Its uniform sizing, light weight, and structural reliability help reduce labour costs, on-site waste, and installation time, resulting in cost savings over the full project lifecycle.