LSL vs LVL – Know What is The Key Difference

Laminated strand lumber (LSL) and laminated veneer lumber (LVL) are both types of engineered wood that are created by bonding together layers of wood veneers. LSL is made of small strands of wood that are all oriented in the same direction, while LVL is made of larger sheets of wood veneer.

LSL vs LVL

LSL vs LVL – LSL is typically stronger than LVL, but LVL can be made with a lower quality of wood since the veneers are bonded together with adhesive. LSL is also less expensive to produce than LVL.

LSL – Laminated Strand Lumber

Laminated strand lumber, like other SCL, is made from flaked wood strands with a length-to-thickness ratio of around 150. The strands are combined with an adhesive, pressed into a large mat or billet, and oriented. LSL has a range of applications, from studs to millwork components. 

LSL doesn’t have the same veneers or strands as other SCL (it’s more like OSB), and it can’t be curved or stained. This makes it more suited for structural framing that won’t be visible. Its shear strength is good, though not as strong as PVL, LVL, and glulam. LSL is more affordable because of this, and it’s often chosen for shorter beams.

• Also Read: Glulam vs LVL – Know Which is Stronger?

LVL – Laminated Veneer Lumber

LVL uses heat and pressure to bind thinly sliced veneers together, a process that is particularly accommodating to narrow beam dimensions. Its shear strength is superior to LSL but doesn’t quite match PSL’s ability to withstand bending stress. LVL is more expensive than LSL but is affordable compared to PSL and glulam.

LVL is a type of structural composite lumber that is made by bonding thin wood veneers together in a large billet. The veneers are scarfed or lapped together so that the grain is parallel to the long direction. This makes LVL much stronger than traditional lumber and it is available in much longer lengths.

Some popular applications for LVL include headers and beams, hip and valley rafters, scaffold planking, and the flange material for prefabricated wood I-joists.

• Also Read: PSL Vs LVL – Know What is The Key Difference

Conclusion

So, which type of engineered wood is better? It depends on your needs. If you need a strong and durable material, then LSL is a good option. If you’re looking for a material that is easier to work with and is less expensive, then LVL. Keep visiting My Architecture’s Idea for more updates.