Glue Laminated Timber (GLT) or glulam is a type of engineered wood product that is made by gluing multiple layers of dimensioned timber together. This process enhances the strength, stability, and durability of the timber, making it suitable for various structural applications. There is a surge in the demand for glulam in the construction industry because of its versatility and the immense benefits it has to offer.
According to a report by Kings Research, the glue laminated timber market size globally is projected to reach $4.28 billion by 2030, expanding at a CAGR (compound annual growth rate) of 6.37% between 2023 and 2030.
In this blog, let us have a look at glue-laminated timber advantages and disadvantages, along with the different types of GLT available for construction use.
Benefits of Glue Laminated Timber
Glue laminated timber (GLT) has become one of the most preferred innovative construction materials, providing a lot of advantages that have transformed the way we execute construction projects today. The characteristics of GLT, such as top-notch strength, dimensional stability, and biophilic design opportunities, have revolutionized the construction processes while embracing sustainable practices. The following are a few reasons that architects should consider embracing sustainable strength in their projects.
1. User Friendly
Glue laminated timber structures are easy to work with on-site. There are significant advantages of GLT, which improves its utilization in the construction industry. These materials are light in weight compared to options like steel and concrete. Hence, the transportation and installation of GLT becomes easier.
Additionally, It is easy to drill, dock, or screw GLT on site, which allows the construction teams to have precise adjustments and fittings. It offers significant advantages to the carpenters as it has the capability to hold a nail, which results in secure fastening. These benefits simplify the construction processes and allow the team to build solid structures easily and precisely.
2. Better Stability
Glue laminated timber has an inherently dimensionally stable structure. As a result, it is able to hold its shape and has a strong resistance to wrapping, bending, or twisting. Solid timbers might shrink or swell if they come in contact with moisture. On the other hand, GLT will remain stable and straight. The best GLT structures are manufactured with handpicked timber laminates that are selected for their consistent moisture content and strength grade.
3. Durable
Glulam is considered to be more durable than solid timber and various other materials. It has the capability to withstand long durations and handle critical loads. Solid timber, after the lamination processes, achieves improved structural stability by combining various layers of timber with a string adhesive, resulting in exceptional load-bearing capacity and resistance to the twisting and bending forces exerted on it. In comparison to solid timber, GLT offers better strength and stability, allowing the development of bigger and more robust structures and assisting in creating huge open spaces.
4. Enhances the Aesthetics
Glulam relies on the natural beauty of timber to develop visually appealing spaces. When aesthetically pleasing is integrated into the design, it creates a stunning feature that's natural and warm. There is an immense amount of evolution in the design sector, resulting in various trends. However, despite the different trends, timber is one of the most preferred options.
The engineered timber market is going through a revolution with a core focus on enhancing the sustainability of the construction industry. Glue laminated timber seamlessly complements other materials such as concrete, stone, and timber. As a result, it has become one of the most preferred materials for users who are conscious about the design and the future of the planet.
5. Improved Health and Well-being
Timber does not just add aesthetics to the building but also has various positive impacts on the individual’s health and well-being. According to a report by the University of British Columbia, the visual presence of timber can result in lower stress more effectively compared to plants. The report also highlights that rooms with approximately 45% timber surfaces enhance perceptions of comfort and lower blood pressure. Research studies have showcased how integrating timber into the design of the space helps reduce stress, assist with cognitive function, and improve physical health and mental well-being. Glue laminated timber buildings will help us to develop happier, healthier, and more sustainable living spaces.
6. Exceptional Fire Performance
On the contrary, glue laminated timber structures are resistant to flames. Glulam has inherent insulation properties that allow it to burn slowly and predictably. Even after being exposed to high temperatures, it burns slowly and creates a protective layer that safeguards the innermost core. In the majority of cases, chars assist in self-extinguishing the fire. It proves that GLT can stay longer by keeping the structure sturdy and secure even when exposed to heat.
Disadvantages of GLT
Here are a few of the disadvantages of glue laminated timber structures that architects should be aware of:
1. Higher Cost
The manufacturing of these products is expensive. Hence, the price of glulam might be on the higher side compared to other timber products available in the market.
2. Limited Availability
The restricted availability of good-quality timber is another downside to the utilization of GLT in construction. Not all countries have sufficient timber resources to meet the growing demands of the construction industry.
3. Less Resistance to Moisture
Glue laminated timber buildings will have lower resistance to moisture compared to alternatives such as steel and concrete. Hence, glulam is designed with bigger dimension components to minimize the moisture impact. Leveraging bigger-dimension products will increase the cost of the materials.
4. Maintenance Could be Challenging
Another restriction of using GLT is that it can be challenging to repair if needed.
What are Different Types of Glue Laminated Timbers?
Now that you are familiar with glue-laminated timber advantages and disadvantages, let us now explore the main types of glulam available:
- Standard Glulam
Regular GLT is the most common type of Glulam available. It is widely used for a vast range of structural applications, including beams, columns, and arches. Standard glulam can be manufactured in straight or curved shapes. Various standard glue laminated timber sizes are available for use in the construction sector.
- Curved Glulam
Curved glulam is manufactured with a curved shape to meet specific design requirements. It is often used in architectural applications where aesthetic appeal is important, such as in arches or vaulted ceilings.
- Tapered Glulam
Tapered Glulam beams have a different depth along their length. They are often leveraged in roof structures to offer a slope for water drainage or to create architectural interest.
- Hollow Glulam
Hollow Glulam beams are designed with an internal cavity to minimize weight while maintaining structural integrity. It is used in applications where lighter beams are beneficial, such as in long-span structures.
- Hybrid Glulam
Hybrid Glulam is an amalgamation of wood with other materials, such as steel or concrete, to improve its structural properties. Hybrid Glulam beams can achieve greater spans and load-bearing capacities compared to standard GLT beams.
- Fire-Resistant Glulam
Glue laminated timber that is resistant to fire is treated with fire-retardant chemicals or encased in materials that provide additional fire resistance. These types of glulam are used in buildings where fire safety is a critical concern.
- Exterior Glulam
Exterior GLT structures are treated for increased durability and resistance to moisture and insects. Hence, exterior glulam is one of the most preferred options for outdoor applications such as bridges, pergolas, and exterior columns.
Every glue laminated timber structure is engineered to meet specific performance criteria. Additionally, it can be customized to suit the requirements of different construction projects.
Gluing Up Glue Laminated Timber Structures
As the global mindset is shifting toward sustainability and a greener planet, every industry has started considering sustainability. Embracing glued laminated timber structures will not only improve the aesthetics of the building but also help be sustainable. Additionally, it is proven that GLT has a positive impact on health and mental well-being. Glulam is becoming one of the preferred options by homeowners to add beauty to their living spaces.
