Structural timber composites and structural assemblies
The newer forms of engineered timber components such as LVL and PSL are commonly referred to as structural timber composites. They have the advantage of being manufactured at low moisture contents, thereby minimising shrinkage in heated buildings. Their properties are consistent and they are typically stronger and longer spanning than solid timber sections.
More complex structural assemblies can be built up using solid timber and wood composites to increase stiffness and strength. Examples include I-beams, T-beams, box-beams and stressed-skin panels. Prefabricated I-beams, manufactured with solid timber or LVL flanges and wood-based panel webs are now widely available and are increasingly popular.
