Why is there a crack in my Beam?

Glulams are subject to the same seasoning checks or cracks as other wood products. Due to the shrinking of wood fibers as moisture is lost to the surrounding atmosphere, this happens naturally. Often, checks will be found near the first glue line, as the bottom lamination has more surface area exposed to the air. Also, a check will normally be found near a glue line where it meets resistance from another lamina. Because of its lower moisture content, glulam will tend to experience less seasoning checking than solid sawn timber, and rarely is the strength of the member compromised. Click the APA EWS Technical Notes on this subject ("Checking in Glued Laminated Timber") in our Resource Library to learn more.

Can my glulam be exposed to the elements?

Untreated glulam that is normally used in residential construction is not recommended for exposed conditions. Although waterproof adhesives are used in the manufacturing of the beams, Douglas Fir and Southern Yellow Pine wood react unfavorably without proper care. Pressure treatment to American Wood Preservers Association (AWPA) standards, use of naturally decay-resistant wood species such as Alaska Yellow Cedar, or maintaining a weather-resistant surface coating is required.