Proper sto rag€r handl ing reduce glulam checking

Protection from the elements, acclimation key

f rxe ALL wooD products. glulam I-lmembers may develop seasoning checks as a normal function of the moisture stabilization process. The risk and degree of checking depends on the combined effects of the glulam member's initial moisture content, seasonal conditions, storage and handling practices in the yard and on the jobsite, and the in-servrce envrronment after installation. The rate at which the glulam member's moisture content changes from manufacture to installation also will have an effect on the amount of checking.

Dealers and distributors, along with their builder customers, can minimize seasoning checks with a few simple strategies: ing" inside the wrap during jobsite storage. triroftr poinbble wrfooe {opiorcll Sudoce wlont (oPiml)

. When a glulam beam is cut to length at the yard or on the jobsite, apply end sealer.

. Remove wrapping after installation in a closed space where members are allowed to stabilize naturally during construction.

, End slont (stwld be oppl;ed lo ends of boms o$er cuning o trimming)

Avoid rapid changes in seasoning rate by construction scheduling and control of the building's interior conditions.

. Do not unwrap and expose the glulam to the elements in early summer. As the season progresses a rapid change in moisture content is likely.

. In arid climates, avoid exposing unwrapped glulam to direct sunlight and wind.

During storage and after installation, avoid exposing unwrapped members by providing a secondary cover/protection.

. Always store members with protection and keep members wrapped until installation.

Limit the glulam's exposure to the weather prior to the building's enclosure; cover and protect the members after installation.

Avoid rapid changes in temperatures that can affect the rate of drying during the first full heating cycle.

. Avoid direct exposure of glulam to heating outlets.

. Cut the underside of wrapping paper to guard against water "pond-

. Wrap members and store them off the ground with secondary cover. There is a higher risk of checking in hot, arid conditions where temperatures rise above 90' and relative humidity drops below 507o. This risk can be reduced by following the steps noted above.

If checking does occur, it is primarily an aesthetic concern. Checks can be filled with an elastomeric filler to improve appearance.

To reduce the possibility and severity of checking, it is important to coordinate delivery schedules to minimize jobsite storage. Avoid direct exposure of glulam members to climate extremes such as high temperatures, rain, and wind. Hot/dry and wet/winter climates can both create high-risk environments, depending on how quickly the moisture content is lowered. If high-risk conditions cannot be avoided, take extra precautions in storage and installation to protect beams and columns.

For more strategies for reducing glulam checking, contact APA at www.apawood.org.