LVL beam span calculator

 Ladies and gentlemen, if you’ve ever ventured into the world of construction, you’ve likely come across the term “LVL,” which stands for Laminated Veneer Lumber

. It’s a bit of a tongue-twister, but fear not!

Today, we’re going to unravel the mysteries of LVL and delve into the fascinating realm of LVL beams.

We’ll explore how to calculate the span of these sturdy beams and introduce you to a handy tool, the LVL beam span calculator.



Understanding LVL Beams

So, what exactly is LVL, or Laminated Veneer Lumber?

Think of it as the superhero of engineered wood products, especially in the construction world. At first glance, it may resemble plywood, but don’t let that fool you. LVL beams are high-strength, engineered wood products that play a pivotal role in construction projects.

The magic behind LVL beams lies in their construction. Thin layers of wood are meticulously glued together, one atop the other, creating a formidable composite structure.

This innovative creation boasts exceptional strength and versatility, making it a top choice for a variety of construction applications. From beams to trusses, beam rim boards to headers, LVL beams are the go-to material for builders and engineers alike.

Moreover, the flexibility of LVL beams extends to their wide range of available sizes, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your specific project needs. This adaptability is a key reason why LVL has become such a popular and indispensable construction material.

Cracking the LVL Beam Span Code

Now that we have a solid grasp of what LVL beams are, let’s dive into the heart of the matter: calculating the span of LVL beams. This is a crucial piece of information when planning any construction project involving LVL beams.

To begin, it’s essential to know the size of your LVL beam. You see, you can’t determine the span of an LVL beam without first understanding its dimensions. Generally, LVL beams are available in widths ranging from 7/4 inches to 7/2 inches. However, when it comes to using an LVL span calculator, you’ll need to take the beam’s depth into account.

Here’s a handy rule of thumb: for every inch in depth, an LVL beam can span approximately 1.67 feet. To calculate the span of your LVL beam, multiply the depth of the beam (in inches) by this factor of 1.67. Voilà! You’ve got your estimated span.

So, let’s break it down step by step:

Measure the Depth: Determine the depth of your LVL beam in inches. This is crucial for accurate calculations.

Apply the Rule: Multiply the depth of the beam by 1.67. This formula takes into account the inherent strength and load-bearing capacity of LVL beams.

Get Your Span: The result of this multiplication will give you an approximate span in feet.

Armed with this span calculation, you’ll have a solid foundation for planning your construction project. Whether you’re designing a sturdy roof, constructing a robust support structure, or any other application that calls for LVL beams, understanding their span capabilities is essential for ensuring the safety and longevity of your building.




In conclusion, LVL beams, with their innovative composition and impressive strength, are a game-changer in the world of construction. By mastering the art of calculating their span, you unlock a world of possibilities for your building projects. So go ahead, harness the power of LVL beams, and build with confidence!

LVL Beam Span Calculator

Calculate the span of an LVL beam based on its depth (in inches).

The estimated span of the LVL beam will be displayed here.

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