GLULAM TIMBER STRUCTURES
Donaldson and McConnell are experienced specialists in the supply, manufacture and design of complex glulam timber structures.
Originally formed after a buy out of glulam importer, Swedspan UK, we have a long history of successfully manufacturing, supplying and distributing glulam across the UK and Ireland.
Glulam timber has real advantages over other structural materials.
The Benefits of Glulam
Glulam has several key benefits for the modern specifier:
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Cost Effective
Designed, manufactured and erected with pre-planned millimeter accuracy, glulam timber structures are completed with increased building speed - saving time and money.
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Easy to Use
Made in modern factory conditions from stress graded timber, glulam components can be easily cut, nailed, drilled, notched and worked on, on-site. Lightweight, glulam also makes for easy dexterous manhandling.
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Durable
Modern phenolic synthetic resin adhesives permanently bond laminations together giving glulam a virtually unlimited lifespan.
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Versatile
Available in a wide range of materials for use in external or internal applications, glulam can be made to almost any size and can be used for arches, portals, columns, rafters, 'A' frames, cross wall purlins, joists and roof, lintel or floor beams
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Corrosion Resistant
Glulam does not corrode. Glulam is also highly resistant to chemical attack and aggressive environmental pollution.
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Fire Resistant
Glulam is highly resistant to fire. Unlike steel and reinforced concrete, glulam retains structural integrity - it will not twist or spall in fire. Glulam beams can attract lower fire insurance premiums than steelwork.
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Superior Strength to Weight Ratio
Glulam is one of the strongest structural materials per unit weight. Unlike structural steel or concrete, glulam can produce a lighter superstructure - saving time and money in foundation construction.
- All exposed surfaces are finished to a smooth surface
- Gross surface defects are neatly patched
- One coat of preservative treatment is applied
- Two coats of lacquer or satin is applied
- Member is wrot to the stated cross-section allowing an occasional miss, low lamination or surface defect
- One coat of clear preservative is applied
- One coat of clear sealer is applied
Materials
Laminated timber glulam components are fabricated from carefully selected softwoods. Our expert design engineers specially determine the species and grade of softwood used in the making of glulam - ensuring our glulam products are optimally suited to their end function.
European white wood is commonly used for interior applications and European red wood, Larch or Heartwood Douglas Fir for exterior applications.
All glulam timber provided is of the highest possible quality and is supplied in accordance with current British and European standards and codes of practice.
Construction
The adhesive used in the manufacture of glulam timber structures will be fully weatherproof, clear Melamine or Resorcinol. Solid members or glulam laminations will feature multiple edge 'finger' type end joints.
Finishes
Our Glulam structural components are available in an architectural or industrial finish.
Architectural Finish
Industrial Quality
When required, we are also able to pressure treat the glulam with a suitable preservative treatment. This treatment can be carried out before or after fabrication and can offer a much higher degree of preservation.
Despatch
All structural glulam components will be delivered unwrapped unless specifically requested otherwise. We take extreme care when handling our products in order to avoid damage during transit.
If you would like to find out more about glulam or our glulam timber structures or if you would like to find out how we can help your project please feel free to get in touch.