Glulam using Australian Hardwoods (Vic Ash, Tasmanian Oak) (Specified by section size)
Glue-Laminated Timber
ATLAS CODE
COM-TBC-GLT-002
Category composite
Material Family Timber-Based Composite
Density
650 kg/m3
Lifespan
Can last for well over 50 years with proper design and maintenance. [7, 8, 16] yrs
Description
Hardwood glulam (e.g., Vic Ash GL17 or Tasmanian Oak GL18) provides higher strength and stiffness than softwood glulam, enabling longer spans and higher loads in exposed structures.
Primary Sectors
[Transport & Infrastructure]
Typical Uses
- Structural beams and columns [9]
- Rafters and trusses [9]
- Lintels
- Floor joists
- Architectural features
- Bridge components
- Furniture [5]
Recycled Content Can be manufactured from smaller, otherwise less usable pieces of timber.
Renewable Content 100% (as it is a wood product from managed forests) [26]
Recyclability Old glulam pieces can be recycled and used again if well-preserved. [8]
EPD Available Yes
Advantages
High strength-to-weight ratio [42]Good design flexibility, can be manufactured in a variety of shapes and sizes [34]Aesthetically pleasing appearance [34]Good fire resistance, chars at a predictable rate [16, 32]Utilizes smaller pieces of timber, which can be more sustainableSourced from sustainably managed forests [44]
Cautions
Susceptible to moisture damage if not properly detailed and protected [8, 15]Requires preservative treatment for exterior use [9, 21]Can be more expensive than other structural materialsLimited by transport and handling capabilities for very large members [37]
TECHNICAL DATA: PERFORMANCE PROPERTIES COM-TBC-GLT-002
Density (Dry) 650 kg/m3
Specific Gravity 0.70 (for Victorian Ash) [2]
Hardness Janka hardness of 5.0 - 5.4 kN (for Victorian Ash) [2, 3]
Compressive Strength 35-50 MPa
Tensile Strength 21-25 MPa
Flexural Strength 42-50 MPa
Shear Strength 3.7-5.0 MPa
Elastic Modulus 16700-18500 MPa
Abrasion Resistance Victorian Ash has high resistance to abrasion and wear. [19]
Sound Transmission Class (STC) Mass timber assemblies can achieve STC ratings of 50-59 with additional soundproofing. [41] Bare mass timber panels have lower STC ratings. [41] Glulam's mass helps to block airborne sound. [22]
Noise Reduction Coeff. (NRC) Glulam has a low noise reduction coefficient. [40]
Glued laminated timber has been used in Europe since the mid-1800s. The Glued Laminated Timber Association of Australia (GLTAA) was formed in 1990 to establish industry standards. [25]
SAFETY, ECOLOGY & INSTALLATION COM-TBC-GLT-002
Fire Resistance Rating A one-hour fire resistance rating can be achieved with appropriate design and specification. [32, 35, 36] hours
EPD Available Yes
Recycled Content Can be manufactured from smaller, otherwise less usable pieces of timber. %
Skill Level Requires skilled carpenters and riggers for large structural members. [37]
Curing Time Not applicable (pre-fabricated) hours
Setting Time Not applicable (pre-fabricated) min
Required Tools
Standard woodworking toolsLifting equipment for large members [37]
Weather Limitations
Protect from moisture during storage and installation. [27, 28]
COMMERCIAL, LOGISTICS & REGULATORY COM-TBC-GLT-002
Material Cost Prices can vary significantly based on size and grade. For example, a 170x70mm GL18 beam is around $50/linear meter, while a 290x65mm laminated beam is around $60/linear meter. [30, 43, 44]
Market Availability Mainly available in Victoria, Tasmania and NSW, with limited availability to other parts of Australia. [33]
Design Life Can last for well over 50 years with proper design and maintenance. [7, 8, 16] years
Warranty Period A 25-year warranty is available for H3 treated Vic Ash glulam. [9] years
Maintenance Interval Regular inspection is recommended, especially for exterior applications. Recoating of exterior finishes may be needed every 18-24 months. [21] months
Dimensional Stability Glulam offers excellent dimensional stability. [5]
DISCLAIMER: This specification document is generated from the CLAD Materials Atlas Database. Information is for general guidance only and does not constitute professional engineering advice. Values are typical and may vary by batch, manufacturer, and production run. Verify suitability for specific project applications independently.