It is possible to build a laminated beam with just a few tools and materials. In general, it is better to use the same material for all of your beams, but if you want to mix and match materials, that’s okay too.
Laminated beams are a great way to add strength to your home. They provide support for high ceilings and large loads, and they are easy to install. Laminated beams are a great way to add structural integrity to your project. They’re strong and easy to install, but can be a little tricky to build. Follow these instructions and you’ll have a laminated beam in no time.
Constructing a laminated beam is a great way to add structural support to your home or refurbish an outdated deck. Laminated beams are extremely versatile, and you can use them for just about any project from making a roof overhang to supporting your finished basement ceiling. This guide will give you the low-down on how to make your own laminated beam from start to finish, including what tools you’ll need, how to make sure it’s as strong as possible, and how long the process will take. So roll up those sleeves and get ready—your new laminated beam awaits!
Assemble the laminations of the beam.
Now that you have your wood, it’s time to assemble the laminations of the beam. First, cut all of your laminations so that they are 1/4 inch thinner than the finished thickness of your laminated beam.
Next, lay out two laminations with their good sides together on a flat surface and glue them together using waterproof glue or clamps. Repeat this process until you have enough laminated pieces for one layer of your project.
You’ll now need to turn each layer 90 degrees to construct an “I” shape (see image 1). This will give added strength and stability during construction as well as when done building it into furniture later on down the line!
Dry fit the beam to check for proper fit.
Once you have your beam cut to size, it’s time to dry fit the beam before gluing it together. This will give you an idea of how well-built your laminated beam is going to be.
To dry fit your laminated beam:
- Dry fit each piece in turn and check for symmetry. If one side is higher than the other or if there are gaps between laminations, then these pieces need more sanding/sanding down until they’re level with one another and every joint is flush with each other.
- Check for gaps between laminations and the top of the beam (between bottom layer), sides of the beam (between middle layers) and bottom layer). These can be filled in using pieces of thin wood held together by screws on either side so that when tightened up against each other, they act like glue between layers of paper towel or toilet paper tubes wrapped around each individual layer before being glued together into one solid piece.
Generously apply a waterproof wood glue to the laminations being careful not to get glue on the top of the beam where it will show.
Generously apply a waterproof wood glue to the laminations being careful not to get glue on the top of the beam where it will show. Make sure you apply enough glue.
Apply pressure with your hands, gently and firmly working your way down the length of the beam until all sections have been joined, removing any excess glue that squeezes out with a damp cloth.
- Apply pressure with your hands, gently and firmly working your way down the length of the beam until all sections have been joined, removing any excess glue that squeezes out with a damp cloth.
Clamp or tape, in place, until set or dried according to manufacturers instructions.
- Clamp or tape, in place, until set or dried according to manufacturers instructions.
- Clamp or tape to prevent warping.
- Clamp or tape to prevent movement (especially during drying)
- Clamp or tape to prevent cracking due to movement of the wet laminated beam and/or its joints (especially during drying)
Be aware that some glues may be toxic and should not come into contact with skin or eyes!
You can build your own custom laminated beam
You can build your own custom laminated beam.
If you want to build a beam that is the size and shape you want, or if you need a beam that is in a specific location, then building it yourself may be the best option for you. The most common types of wood used for beams are Douglas fir, southern yellow pine and western red cedar.
Conclusion
That’s it! You should now have a beautiful laminated beam that will hold up whatever you need it to. We hope you enjoyed this article, and if you ever have any questions or comments please don’t hesitate to leave us a message below
