Which type of lumber is best for structural beams?

Glulam, or glued laminated timber, is the best choice for structural beams due to its significant strength, stability, and durability. Glulam is manufactured by stacking layers of wood together and bonding them with strong adhesives, which allows it to be engineered for specific load-bearing applications. This process enables glulam to achieve greater strength-to-weight ratios than solid wood beams, making it ideal for supporting heavy loads over long spans in construction.

Furthermore, glulam can be crafted into various shapes and sizes, enhancing design flexibility. It effectively resists warping, twisting, and splitting, which are common issues with traditional lumber, especially in larger structural members.

In comparison, softwoods like pine can be strong, but they may not provide the same structural integrity or uniformity as glulam, particularly in applications requiring long spans. Engineered wood products such as particle board are not designed for structural applications and lack the load-bearing capabilities necessary for beams. Standard plywood sheets, while strong in shear, are primarily intended for sheathing and cabinetry, rather than as beams supporting structural loads.