Glulam Beams vs DIY Timber Frame: A Comparison of Construction Techniques and Costs

While traditional timber frame construction still dominates the market, alternative techniques have emerged that offer cost savings and quicker completion times. One such method involves using glulam (glued laminated) beams, which have proven effective in certain applications. However, for DIY builders, improvising with 2x6s can also be a viable solution provided it is done correctly.

Glulam Beams for Substantial Construction

Glulam beams are fabricators' choice for creating massive beams due to their ability to withstand substantial shear stresses. These beams are made by sandwiching 2x6s or similar materials and applying glue to bond them together. Glulam beams are engineered to meet strict standards, but this process requires expertise to ensure they meet the necessary strength requirements.

However, DIY builders should be cautious when using this method. A notable instance involved the use of 1x6s nailed together to create curved arches for a hockey arena. While the structure did not collapse, it deflected noticeably under the first snowfall due to inadequate shear stress resistance. The beams had to be reinforced with glulam beams, resulting in significant costs.

DIY Timber Frame Construction: A Successful Example

For a recent project, I constructed a generator building using a timber frame instead of a solid timber frame. The building, measuring 7m x 7m, was situated in a site where the wind accelerated down a small cut, causing damage to previous structures. The client required an extremely strong building to withstand these winds.

The frame was constructed from 6x2s screwed together. Here’s how it was done:

A ring beam was built on the ground, bolted down to the concrete slab, using three layers of 6x2s with a 6-inch gap between them. Posts were made from three layers of 6x2s, with a longer central layer that had 6-inch tenons at each end, which fitted into the mortices of the ring beam. A top ring beam was made in the same manner, with posts fitting into mortices and held in place with lag bolts. The gables extended the central layer up to the ridge, with shorter lengths added to each side for the top. Trusses supported the roof, with additional blocks inserted at the ends for extra strength. Purlins and roof sheets were attached with structural screws and tek screws, respectively. The frame was braced internally with 6x2 diagonal braces and vertical plank on plank Larch cladding.

This frame, while not aesthetically as pleasing as a properly built timber frame, proved extremely robust. During a test with winds reaching 70 mph, the building fully passed the test with flying colors. The construction was completed in just over two weeks by two individuals, including the time for roof covering and cladding.

Cost and Time Efficiency

The cost of this approach was significantly lower than using a solid timber frame. The time required to cut a full-sized solid timber frame alone would take 2-3 weeks, while the entire building, including roofing and cladding, would take another 2 weeks. In contrast, the DIY approach using 6x2s took just over two weeks, despite the short winter days.

While this method may lack the aesthetic appeal of a traditional timber frame, it offers substantial benefits in terms of strength, cost savings, and speed of construction. For certain applications, such as sub-zero weather conditions, this approach demonstrates remarkable durability and efficiency.