Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) is a type of structural composite lumber (SCL) that is commonly used in wood construction for both residential and commercial buildings. It is a composite product manufactured from multiple thin layers of veneer that are aligned with the length of the finished lumber. LVLs consist of many thin wood veneers adhered with high-strength adhesives, and the veneers are cut to beam-shaped sizes. LVLs are a stronger alternative to wood beams and have great flexural strength. They are used for headers, beams, rimboards, and edge-forming. LVLs are versatile and can be used for many structural applications, including I-joists, trusses, planks, rafters, and custom-made panels for marine uses.

LVLs have several advantages that make them a popular option in construction. They are one of the strongest wood-based construction materials relative to their density. LVLs are typically more cost-effective than alternatives like sawn timber, and their strength allows for smaller beams to be used in similar applications. They are also easier to control the quality of the end result since each layer of an LVL beam is checked for quality and selected for a cohesive product. LVLs are safe to be exposed in accordance with building codes, as their large mass provides inherent resistance to fire.

In general, LVL production is similar to that of structural plywood; however, the main difference between the two products is the grain orientation of each veneer. In the case of plywood, an odd number of veneer is assembled across each other, so the final product will not only have better mechanical properties but also will be dimensionally more stable. LVLs are commonly manufactured in North America by companies that also manufacture I-joists.

In summary, LVL is a composite product manufactured from multiple thin layers of veneer that are aligned with the length of the finished lumber. LVLs are versatile and can be used for many structural applications, including I-joists, trusses, planks, rafters, and custom-made panels for marine uses. They are one of the strongest wood-based construction materials relative to their density and are typically more cost-effective than alternatives like sawn timber.