minimii

For a 2.0E LVL, proximately how much stronger is one 3 1/2" x 9 1/2" LVL vs two 1 3/4" x 9 1/2" bond together, assume the two LVL are binded accroding to the manufactory's guide ?

I can get two 1 3/4" at HD for about $55 each. However, to order a 3 1/2", it cost $260 from a local lumber yard.

nealtw

Each product and each manufacture has a different chart so the lumber yard should be able to check that for you.

minimii

I have called GP and other manufactories, still did not get any response back yet.
Does anybody know roughtly, (for a span of around 10ft), how much load does two 1 3/4" can provide, comparing one 3 1/2"? 90%, 80%?

nealtw

http://www.parr.com/PDFs/LP%20LVL%201.9E.pdf

BridgeMan

As per the tables, they're identical--both in bending moment and shear strength. That being said, going with a single larger member would avoid any weakening caused by the fasteners used to attach the smaller units together. Shear resistance at the ends, in particular, could be compromised by too many through-bolts.

nealtw

Engineers only ask for bolting when the beam is close to the upper limits. For most of your work they allow us to nail them together three 3" nails 12 to 16" on center.