TAIK Back

GLULAM SHAKE-UP

The glulam Product line is cunently receiving some much-needed publicity. Glulams are the most cost effective solution for beams and headers on the market todaY.

However, we would like to note that Rosboro's launch of the X-Beam has polarized the industry (see May, p. 10- t t ). That polarization is based on one issue-the appearance of the fullframing-width beam and the raw material it takes for the rest of us [glulam manufacturers] to achieve that appearance. Rosboro touts an architectural appearance; the rest of us specify framing appearance, efficiently utilizing available raw material. Based on feedback and questions we've received since the release, several points need to be clarified.

While Rosboro PreemPted the rest of the manufacturers with its product launch. APA members have been working on the PRG 305 for some time and reached consensus in January of 2010. PRG 305 standardizes glulam specification to directly compete and be positioned with other engineered wood products. The PRG standard was never intended to be for architectural apPlication.

Glulams that match standard framing and other engineered products have been on the market for several years. The fact is, two-thirds of the applications for glulams today are concealed and do not require an architectural appearance. Ask yourself, when was the last time a customer used LVL for an exPosed beam?

As the article states, time will tell if the X-Beam gains traction. How-ever, the major suppliers of lamstock lumber universally stated they were not going to change sawing sizes to accommodate this Product. For the rest of the glulam industry, that means the X-Beam is a single-source situation. We do not believe that benefits the industry over the long haul'

Steve Killgore Calvert Co.,Inc., Vancouver, Wa. steve @ calvertglulam.com

Treating offers the best in naturally beautiful, pressure{reated Douglasjir and Hem-fir wood for a full range ot building needs' including:

New! D-Blaze@ Fire Retardant lllood lor lraming and inbriors

Preserveo AC(P wood fof Proven, lory-term protection against decay and bmites, even in th€ harshest environmenb limberSaveP ff Borab Prsure-Treabd wood tor framing, doors and rnre SupaTimbero Pressure-Ireabd wood fur industial and commercial use

A Radiant Ghoice

Enerflex radiant barrier from Universal Forest Products helps save energy and qualifies for the American Recovery Tax Credit for insulation. The barrier can be installed between rafters on the underside of the roof, in both new and existins homes. It reportedly blocks up to 96Vo of radiant enlrev and keeps attics upto30Vo cooler.

Under the Roof

TAMKO's new Peel-N-Stick Felt underlayment makes installation easier. A release-film backing roofdecks; no cap nails or T TAMKO.COM

I ENERFLEXFOIL.COM

(800) 598-9663 allows direct installation on staples are needed. MP THE PAtrIFIC PRESERVINEi wtrtrD trOMPANIES U r ThetuedrantMagadn€ r JuD20l0 BniHingrhodudscorn

Solid Oak Flooring

Red oak is the latest addition to Green River American Hardwood's Classic series of Prefinished solid hardwood flooring.

The flooring features tongueand-groove stYling, end-matched construction, and micro beveling on all four sides.

Color oPtions include natural, merlot, gunstock, vintage brown, and saddle, in a full range of thicknesses and face-widths.

I GREENRIVERLUMBER.COM

(866\ 549-3344

Lmprovements In Lnsulation

Roxul has added R28 insulation to its ComfortBatt stonewool insulation lineuP.

The product rePortedlY is easY to cut with a serrated blade' allowing for oPtimal fit around electrical boxes, wiring, Plumbing, and ductwork.

A semi-rigid batt structure reportedly Produces a snug fit between studs and joists' to reduce energy loss.

I ROXUL.COM

(800) 265-6878