What is Engineered Wood?

OSB, LVL, I-Joists….You’ve probably heard these product names if you’ve ever been on a job site or in a lumberyard. They’re becoming more and more common as the building industry becomes more modern and efficient.

But what are they and how are these products made?

These products are examples of engineered wood products. Other names these products are known by include mass timber, composite wood, man-made wood, or manufactured board. These products are used in the framework of the house and have been designed as stronger, more durable alternatives than old framing material.

Engineered wood products are made by binding or fixing the strands, particles, fibers, or veneers of wood together with adhesives to form composite material. The products are designed to precise specifications which are tested to meet building standards in the areas where they are sold. Engineered wood products are used in residential and commercial projects.

The list of engineered wood products is growing and include products such as:

· Plywood

· Densified wood

· Fiberboard

· Particle board

· Oriented Strand Board (OSB)

· Laminated timber

· Laminated Veneer (LVL)

· Cross laminated

· Parallel strand

· Laminated strand

· Finger joint

· Beams (I-Joists)

· Trusses

At Nelson-Young Lumber, we primarily sell OSB, I-Joists, and LVL. If you have questions on any of these products, give us a call or visit our website at https://www.nylumber.com/manufactured-wood