Cross Laminated Timber (X-Lam)
Cross Laminated Timber is formed in a similar way to glulam by stacking a number of layers of timber (known as lamellas) – usually spruce – at 90º to one below and subsequently glued to each other to create panels of up to 18m in length and 2950mm in width, creating structural roof, wall and floor panels capable of creating structures up to 25 storeys.
When compared to conventional timber construction products, X-LAM offers entirely new options when it comes to load transfer.
To prevent pest and fungal attack only technically dried wood with a wood moisture of 12% (+/- 2%) is used to produce solid Cross Laminated timber. All boards used are subject to both visual and mechanical quality control checks.
The factory cutting and machining of X-LAM timber takes place under strictly controlled conditions, using state-of-the-art CNC technology for maximum accuracy.
Our PEFC certificate guarantees that the raw material used comes from ecological, economical and socially responsible forests.
The Benefits of X-LAM
Environment. Timber used is PEFC certified. It has negative carbon intensity when taken from managed sources, has a low embodied energy and is a renewable energy source.
Ease of use. X-LAM is factory manufactured to exceptional levels of accuracy to ensure minimal defects whilst reducing construction time and cost. The panels are installed with crane and lightweight power tools without the need for wet trades. Site storage is reduced by just-in-time delivery scheduling and health and safety issues are minimized due to the lightweight nature of the product and the speed of erection.
Fire. X-LAM offers significant advantages in respect of fire protection compared with reinforced concrete or steel materials. In a fire, a charred layer forms around an un-destroyed core which retains its load bearing capacity, thus reducing the entry of oxygen and heat from outside which delays significantly the further spread of flame.
Shape & Span. X-LAM can be manufactured in sizes from 75mm-334mm deep, 1280mm – 2950mm wide and up to 18m in length. X-LAM panels can be formed to enable site installation of windows, doors and architectural features and can if required, be manufactured curved with a minimum radius of 8m.
Appearance. X-LAM is generally manufactured from Spruce but can also be manufactured from Larch, White Fir and Douglas Fir. X-LAM can be manufactured for exposed, internal areas or in non-visible quality and can be clad in any number of materials.
Thermal & Acoustic Properties. X-LAM walls with plasterboard will provide acoustic performance in excess of Building Regulations and will make a contribution to the “U” value requirement.
Maintenance. Designed and installed correctly, X-LAM panels require little or no maintenance.
