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product overview |
| Our Product | Visual Characteristics | Strength | Dimensions/Profiles | Stress Data/Physical Properties |
Visual Characteristics
Surface
Wooden floor elements naturally require the highest standards in visual quality.
In regards to the surface quality, the distinction between "visual" and "non-visual" application is made.
Swelling and shrinking
The use of kiln dried lumber in floor elements means that the moisture content is relatively uniform between 8% - 12%. Although "dry" floor elements provide a high level of stability, the moisture content, especially during the summertime, may reach 15%. For this reason, expansion joints need to be accounted for during construction. For example: an increase of MC by 6% is followed by an increase of 1.2 cm of a 80 cm wide floor element (0.6 cm on each side). Fastening devices like nails will easily follow this movement.
Although far less susceptible to checking like green construction lumber, newly erected buildings should be heated slowly. During transportation and assembly the product should not be exposed to the weather.
Coating / wood preservation
Technical kiln drying of glulam floor elements normally substitutes any kind of preservative treatment. Furthermore, if installed for visual usage (non-structural) then the lowest hazard-class is given.