When it comes to building a structure that requires a strong and sturdy ridge beam, LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) beams are an excellent choice. But before selecting the perfect beam for your project, it's essential to understand how to determine its dimensions. In this article, we will explore the importance of span tables when choosing the right LVL ridge beam.

The first step in determining the appropriate LVL beam is to consider the span length. For instance, if you're working on a 16-foot span, the recommended LVL dimensions would be 3-1/2 inches wide by 9-1/2 inches deep. This is because the width should be one-third or one-quarter of the LVL beam's depth.

When calculating the depth of an LVL beam, a general guideline is to divide the span in inches by 20. For example, if your span is 16 feet (192 inches), the recommended depth would be 9.6 inches or 9-1/2 inches. While a single-ply 14-inch deep LVL beam might suffice for some projects, a 9-1/2-inch deep 2 or 3-ply beam would provide added strength and clearance.

Manufacturers often offer span charts that take into account various construction factors such as the number of stories, beam span, carrying span, beam usage, placement, and live, dead, and total loads. These charts are essential in determining the correct depth and span for your LVL beam.

The minimum bearing length is also influenced by the depth and span of the beam, emphasizing the need for accuracy when selecting an LVL beam. Additionally, if there are intermediate supports spaced equally along the beam's span, this will impact the beam size.

In conclusion, choosing the right LVL ridge beam requires careful consideration of several factors, including span length, width, depth, and bearing length. By understanding how to use span tables effectively, you can ensure that your structure is strong, sturdy, and safe.

Lvl ridge beam span tables