LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber)
LVL is a high-strength engineered timber product used for lintels, beams, and long-span members. Not covered by AS 1684 span tables; uses manufacturer-certified sizing.
Ask Chalkline about this →LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) is an engineered timber product made by bonding thin wood veneers together with adhesive under heat and pressure, all veneers aligned parallel to the length. The result is a uniform, high-strength beam or board with predictable structural properties and no natural defects such as knots or grain deviation.
LVL is commonly used for lintels over wide openings (garage doors, bifold doors, large window banks), ridge beams, floor bearers, and other applications where a solid timber of the required size is either unavailable or impractical.
LVL is not covered by AS 1684 span tables. Because LVL products vary by manufacturer, sizing must use the manufacturer’s own certified span tables or structural design data sheets. Using an AS 1684 timber span table to size an LVL member is incorrect and can produce a non-compliant, undersized beam. In some cases a structural engineer’s details are required for LVL in high-load or unusual geometry applications.
Common Australian LVL brands include Hyspan (Carter Holt Harvey), Futurebuild LVL (Wesbeam), and Tilling’s LP LVL. Each brand publishes its own span tables and technical manuals.
Also known as: Structural LVL, engineered timber beam.
Category: Structural / Materials.
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Last updated: 2026-05-08. Verified: 2026-05-08.