There are pros and cons to using solid sawn beams versus glue laminated timber. Natural timber beams have several limitations. First, they are generally straight. They can have curves cut into them, but the timber will be weakened structurally and care has to be taken to leave enough continuous grain. Second, they “check” or crack as the wood dries out and shrinks. These limitations are considered beautiful and are desired by many clients and interior designers, but for people who do not care for the checking, or who want long graceful curved beams, glulam timbers are an option.
Glulam beams are formed by laying down one inch boards on top of each other and gluing the boards together. The result is a stable beams that does not check and is very strong.
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