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There are many different ways that beams are constructed. Here are a few of the most common: Heavier lumber can be used as a beam for narrower projects, such as decks. It is not unusual to find outside decks supported by a beam made up of a 6x6 timber from below. This refers to perhaps the most common approach to building support beams. Several pieces of dimensional lumber are glued and nailed together, flat side to flat side, and then placed on edge underneath the joists. The combination of the timbers and the adhesive provide a fair amount of extra support, and tend to deflect far less than the individual timbers would alone. Microlams, or LVLs are fast becoming the method of choice for supporting beams in modern contruction. They are designed to handle longer spans with less deflection. They are also often glued to other LVLs to create wider, and far stronger beams that can still handle the stress of a floor. Perhaps the largest advance that comes with using microlams is that the microlam is not as wide as grown timber. This means that the main beam in a basement or for a second floor does not have to come as far down into the room, and so does not have to stick out as much. It is easy to see why microlams are so popluar - they are easier to hide, and can span longer distances, so it is easier to build larger, stronger rooms. |
