Glulam beams, also known as glued laminated timber beams, are one of the most widely used engineered wood products in modern construction. Contractors and engineers rely on glulam beams for their strength, long-span capabilities, dimensional stability, and architectural appeal.
Used in residential, commercial, agricultural, and mass timber projects, structural glulam beams offer predictable performance and design flexibility that traditional lumber cannot match. Northern Logs Supply provides high-quality glulam beams sourced directly from forest product manufacturers, supporting projects from early design through final installation.
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What Are Glulam Beams?
Glulam beams are engineered wood beams manufactured by bonding multiple layers of dimensional lumber together using high-strength, moisture-resistant adhesives. The laminations are oriented with the grain running parallel, producing a structural member with superior strength and consistency.
(Architectural-grade Glulam)
Because glulam beams are engineered, natural wood defects are distributed throughout the beam rather than concentrated in one location. This improves load performance, reduces warping, and allows glulam beams to span longer distances than solid-sawn lumber.
Common uses for glulam beams include:
- Structural beams and headers
- Roof and floor framing
- Columns and posts
- Long-span commercial structures
- Exposed architectural timber systems
Advantages of Structural Glulam Beams
Structural glulam beams provide several advantages for contractors and engineers:
- High strength-to-weight ratio compared to steel or concrete
- Longer spans with fewer interior supports
- Consistent dimensional stability and reduced shrinkage
- Available in custom sizes, depths, and lengths
- Suitable for exposed architectural applications
- Manufactured from renewable forest products
These advantages make glulam beams an ideal solution for projects requiring both structural performance and visual appeal.
Glulam Beam Sizes and Depths
Glulam beam sizes vary based on structural requirements and design preferences. Both standard and custom glulam beam sizes are available.
Common glulam beam widths:
- 3-1/8 inches
- 3-1/2 inches
- 5-1/8 inches
- 5-1/2 inches
- 6-3/4 inches and larger
Common glulam beam depths:
- Approximately 6 inches to 24 inches or more
- Deeper glulam beams are used for longer spans and heavier loads
Glulam beam lengths:
- Straight beams commonly exceed 40 to 60 feet
- Curved and cambered glulam beams are available for specialized designs
Northern Logs Supply offers both stock and custom glulam beam sizes to meet project-specific requirements.
Glulam Beam Span Table Guidelines
A glulam beam span table is used to determine allowable spans based on beam size, species, grade, load conditions, and bracing. While final sizing must be verified by a structural engineer, a common preliminary guideline is:
Approximate span (feet) = Beam depth (inches) × 1.5 to 2.0
Example:
A 16-inch deep glulam beam may span approximately 24 to 32 feet under standard loading conditions.
Span Table (Preliminary Sizing Guide)
| Beam Size (Width × Depth) | Max Span (Roof) | Max Span (Floor) | Typical Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3-1/8″ × 9″ | 12–14 ft | 10–12 ft | Small porch / light roof |
| 3-1/8″ × 12″ | 16–18 ft | 14–16 ft | Deck beams, small cabins |
| 3-1/8″ × 15″ | 18–20 ft | 16–18 ft | Residential headers |
| 5-1/8″ × 12″ | 20–22 ft | 18–20 ft | Open living spans |
| 5-1/8″ × 15″ | 24–26 ft | 20–22 ft | Great rooms / pavilions |
| 5-1/8″ × 18″ | 26–30 ft | 22–24 ft | Large open spans |
| 6-3/4″ × 15″ | 26–28 ft | 22–24 ft | Heavy roof loads |
| 6-3/4″ × 18″ | 30–34 ft | 24–28 ft | Lodges / commercial |
| 6-3/4″ × 21″ | 34–38 ft | 28–30 ft | Large clear spans |
| 8-3/4″ × 24″ | 40–50 ft | 30–36 ft | Event barns / halls |
For precise structural design, engineers should reference APA A190.1 glulam beam span tables. Northern Logs Supply can assist contractors and engineers in reviewing span table data and coordinating final beam specifications.
Glulam Beam Price Range
Glulam beam pricing depends on beam size, species, grade, appearance classification, and order volume.
Typical glulam beam prices range from:
- $6 to $34 per linear foot
Factors that affect glulam beam cost:
- Width and depth of the beam
- Architectural or appearance grade
- Custom fabrication or camber
- Length and freight requirements
- Total project volume
Northern Logs Supply provides competitive pricing by sourcing glulam beams directly from forest product suppliers and delivering efficiently to job sites. Request a Quote.
Glulam Beam Size Calculator and Estimating
A glulam beam size calculator or span guide helps contractors and engineers estimate beam dimensions during early project planning. Preliminary sizing is based on span length, anticipated loads, and deflection limits.
To estimate glulam beam size:
- Measure clear span length
- Identify dead, live, snow, and wind loads
- Check deflection requirements
- Review applicable glulam span tables
Northern Logs Supply supports customers by reviewing preliminary sizing and assisting with final beam selection before ordering.
Where to Buy Glulam Beams?
Northern Logs Supply is a reliable source for structural glulam beams and engineered wood products.
Why buy glulam beams from Northern Logs Supply:
- Direct access to forest product supply
- Stock and custom glulam beam sizes
- Technical and engineering support
- Consistent quality control
- Nationwide delivery capabilities
Northern Logs Supply works closely with contractors, engineers, and designers to ensure glulam beams meet structural, architectural, and schedule requirements.
Conclusion
Glulam beams are a proven engineered wood solution for projects requiring long spans, high strength, and design flexibility. With predictable performance and a wide range of sizes and finishes, structural glulam beams are well-suited for both concealed and exposed applications.
For dependable supply, expert support, and competitive pricing, Northern Logs Supply is a trusted partner for glulam beams.