Key-Laminated Beams

Fusing Modern Innovation with 19th Century Craftsmanship

Back to the Future

Updating a building technique common in the late 1800’s, FraserWood now offers large, solid-sawn members that are mechanically laminated rather than glue laminated – a unique timber product that speaks to a bygone era of beauty and engineering virtuosity. 

Relying on our industry leading, quality wood fiber and the analytical methodology recently developed by Fire Tower Engineered Timber's Joe Miller, Ph.D., P.E., FraserWood can produce beams to depths of 48" and lengths of 60', literally extending the reach of natural timbers.

Exceptional Strength and Enhanced Appearance

To create Key-Laminated Beams, we join HeartDry™ solid-sawn beams along their lengths using “keys.” (For these beams to behave as designed, all the components must be dry.) Typically, the keys are hardwood wedges, joined transversely to the adjacent timbers to transfer shear and limit interlayer slip. Properly designed and engineered, Key-Laminated Beams are up to 90% as efficient as solid wood beams of like dimension. The Craftsman-style look of Key-Laminated Beams brings a beauty equal to solid-sawn timber and superior to glulam beams.

There is more than one way to creatively employ this appealing, time-tested technology, and FraserWood is ready to help bring your design to fruition. Key-Laminated Beams can set your project apart and make your structure a striking example of quality craftsmanship.

The Attributes of Key-Laminated Beams

• Beams are joined mechanically-not glued.
  
• Up to 90% as efficient as solid wood.
• Depth up to 48” and lengths up to 60’.
• Craftsman-style appearance.
• Custom configurations available, including columns.
• FSC-certification available.
  

Available Species

• White Spruce
• Douglas Fir
• Port Orford Cedar
• Western Red Cedar
• Red Oak

Click on flyer or link for PDF of Key-Laminated Beams product sheet