Choosing the right timber for your project seems to be a challenging task but it is not really such a difficult choice, when you look for the options, you have to understand that there are no wrong options when you know your needs and resource availability clearly and precisely the choice becomes easy.
Now in the case of PSL vs LVL which seems to be quite a battle, we first need to understand what it is that makes them different types of timber.
PSL vs LVL: The Difference🤔
The real factor that makes PSL (Parallel Strand Lumber) different from LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) is how they are distinctly cut and assembled together to make a beam.
LVL is made from thin multiple layers of wood joined together to form a larger beam on the contrary PSL is made from sundry of wood strips that are glued side by side forming a large beam of log.
While both these timbers are structural engineered lumber which are widely used in a variety of construction purposes such as beams, columns and sills, the special quality about LVL is that it is known for its higher strength as compared to PSL.
Although both PSL and LVL are strong and stable materials. LVL boasts a rather higher strength to weight ratio and has the capacity to carry much more weight than PSL, due to this reason LVL becomes your better choice for longer span plans or heavy loads.
Applications of PSL and LVL🏭
One more resilient quality of LVL is that it is less prone to warping, twisting and splitting, as compared to other traditional lumber. In that case if you are showing off the architecture outdoors, LVL will give promising results.
However, in the case of interiors, like floor, or wall joints, PSL is surely a recommended option. PSL is more resilient to wet spaces and thus it is advisable to use them in utility rooms.
LVL is considered a chameleon in the engineered wood realm because of its adaptability to blend into varied construction designs making it possible to come up with creative architecture.
On the other hand, the large beams and columns are often made of PSL, being a commercial or industry favourite lumber.
Easy installation: PSL or LVL?😁
Here it’s quite a competition, due to the smooth surface and consistent dimensions builders find it comfortable to work with PSL, it brings the cement of predictability in the construction.
While LVL because of its flexibility and customizable behaviour brings a tough competition. It can be easily cut and shaped according to the specific requirements of the project. This factor brings a possibility of creative solutions supported by strength.
The final choice🤓
Now having learned so much about these woods we understand it’s not a game of which one is better but rather a decision of which one fulfills your specific requirements. PSL seems to be a good option for water resistant traditional basic strength requiring work while on the other hand LVL brings creative blueprints to your architecture with the promise of strength and resistance to the warping and twisting.
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