How Glued Laminated Timber Is Produced

Glued laminated timber is a high-tech construction material obtained by bonding pre-processed wooden boards (lamellas). Unlike solid timber, which has certain disadvantages such as significant shrinkage, fire risk, and the need for additional treatment, glulam offers improved stability, minimal deformation, and high reliability. Traditional log or beam houses are prone to cracks and gaps, requiring regular maintenance.

Glulam retains all the advantages of natural wood but eliminates its main drawbacks. It does not shrink significantly, is resistant to deformation, and does not require post-assembly treatment. Only carefully selected wood is used, from which knots, uneven sections, and visible defects are removed.

Softwood species such as Siberian pine, spruce, and larch are most commonly used. Cedar and oak options are considered premium.

Production Process

1. Raw material preparation
The wood is meticulously selected, and pieces with defects such as cracks, decay, or mold are removed. The lamellas are then dried in special chambers to a moisture content of approximately 10%. Rejected material is often used as fuel for the drying systems.

2. Detection and removal of defects
Lamellas are inspected, minor defects are removed, and the boards are sanded and calibrated.

3. Finger-jointing of material by length
After cutting out defective sections, boards often remain in varying lengths. To achieve the required size, finger-jointing with industrial adhesives is used.

4. Lamination (gluing the boards)
Various adhesive systems may be used. A safe alternative to formaldehyde-based adhesives is the EPI system, a two-component adhesive with an isocyanate hardener. When applied correctly, the bonding is extremely strong.

5. Pressing
The glued lamellas are pressed under high pressure to ensure maximum bonding strength. The result is a dense and durable timber.

6. Cutting and packaging
Finished beams are cut to size, profiled if necessary, sanded, treated with protective coatings, and packaged in vapor-permeable film.

Methods of Assembling Glulam Houses

German Method

  • High-precision profiles ensuring tight, seamless joints

  • Common use of “comb” type profiles for excellent airtightness

  • Reinforced with metal connectors, threaded rods, and hidden fasteners

  • High structural stability and minimal shrinkage

  • Ideal for long-lasting, energy-efficient buildings

Scandinavian Method

  • Traditional corner joints (e.g., dovetail, Norwegian joint)

  • Allows wood to “work” naturally and compensate for climate variations

  • Minimal use of metal fasteners

  • Excellent resistance to harsh weather, moisture, and snow loads

  • Superior insulation thanks to self-tightening corner joints