Engineered Lumber FAQ

The Future of Construction is Now!

*What is an I-Joist and what are the benefits of using an I-level I-Joist?

I-level by Weyerhaeuser I-Joists: 

I-level Joists feature an efficient shape that enables them to carry large loads over long spans without sagging or loosening their connection to decking and floor finish.  The joists that we carry here at Harper Chambers Lumber are a combination of a proprietary web material called Performance Plus. In appearance the web looks like OSB (Oriented Strand Board) but is actually made of larger strands and contains more resins which makes it several times stronger than conventional OSB. The flanges are made from Microllam LVL or Timberstrand LSL depending on the series and size of joists.  Only I-Level manufactures the Silent Floor System which is backed by a lifetime warranty against defects and squeeks.

*What is LVL and where is it used?

Microllam:

Microllam also know as LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) is manufactured to minimize the effects of wood's natural defects, so it resists bowing, shrinking and twisting which are all leading causes of wall / sheetrock cracks. Microllam can be used as a header or beam providing superior strength with less weight.  All of the Microllam that we stock is  1 3/4"  in width and heights ranging between 11 7/8"  to 18".  Size and the amount of ply's is determined by our design department using "state of the art" engineering software that accurately determines deflection of the beam, shear, moment and end reactions to ensure that you will get a beam that performs above building code specifications.  To have a beam sized please come by our Tuscaloosa store with your plans or call (205) 345-4590 EXT. 260 to set up an appointment for our designer to visit your job-site. 

*What do you mean by Timberstrand?

Timberstrand:

Timberstrand LSL (Laminated Strand Lumber) is I-Level's newest innovation made of fast-growing aspen and yellow poplar and can be used for a broad range of applications, such as Rim Board (encloses an I-Joist floor system), window headers, wall studs and door headers. As a header Timberstrand offers predictable strength, outstanding weatherablity and tremendous dimensional stability (resists swelling from air-moisture level changes)

*I hate how wavy the sheetrock is in my house, is there anything I could have done to prevent this?

Timberstrand Wall Studs are unmatched in quality and dimensional uniformity. We suggest due to the cost of Timberstrand studs to "Zone Frame", in other words to use Timberstrand studs in areas of visual importance i.e. large foyers, family rooms with tall walls, kitchens and hallways.  Engineered studs are available in many conventional sizes and even long lengths for tall walls. Please call ahead as these are special order items. 

Harper Chambers Lumber Company of Tuscaloosa keeps a large inventory of the I-Level product line, please contact our

design department for more information or product availability.