Let’s start with the rafters. They can be Glulam, Parallam, Microlam or even wooden beams. What are all these and why do I need them in my house? The beams are used to support parts of the house and are located in its walls, ceilings and floors. Beams are used to transfer a load from one point to another.

Structural framing beams allow the architect to create large openings, floors, and ceilings in your home. Joists are also used to support the weight on doors, windows, and other openings in your home. These beams support large amounts of weight in some cases and are even made of steel if required.

Another growing problem is the lack of old trees in the forest. If we just used wooden beams without using the new engineered beams, we would have to cut down a lot more of the larger trees. Then you can add these guys to your Christmas list. Timber engineers or lumbermen have come up with all sorts of alternatives for new construction products. These new beams are just a few of them. Keep up the good work guys…

Glulam is an engineered wood product made up of lumber laminates, or 2x4s that are bonded together with strong, waterproof adhesives. If you are using a Glulam beam on the exterior of buildings, you will need to order an exterior Glulam beam. In this case, the manufacturer will use special exterior glues for the beam.

When ordering engineered wood beams, specify to the sawmill what you are using the beam for. Exterior or Interior of the building. If you use an interior glulam over time, there’s a good chance the beam will peel or crack.

Parallam is made from nearly all log wood using veneer strands that are aligned parallel for maximum strength. The final product is a rectangular beam; which is longer, thicker and stronger than solid sawn lumber. They are often used as beams, headers, columns, and posts, among other uses.

Microllam is an engineered wood product that uses multiple layers of thin wood assembled with adhesives. It offers several advantages over typical lumber: it is stronger, straighter, and more uniform. Conventional wood is much less likely to warp, twist, bow or shrink due to its composite nature. Manufactured in a factory under controlled specifications, Microllam products allow users to reduce on-site labor. They are typically used for headers, joists, edge boards, and edge-forming materials.

These beams come in all sorts of different lengths, widths, and heights. They are designed to support staggering amounts of weight. They really are great marvels of engineering.

Tip: I have had to replace almost all of these types of beams over the years due to some type of damage. Like anything else in your home, if it is used incorrectly, there is a good chance that it will have some kind of fault. I have seen people add weight to these structural beams without thinking that they will ever fail.

If you plan to build an extra room, rebuild your roof, add a floor, or any other type of construction where you add an extra load to your home. You may want to consult with a building contractor or structural engineer.

Thanks Greg for another great article on home building. For more great articles visit Greg at http://gregvan.com/