Understanding LVL Beam Span Tables in Ontario Building Code
The Ontario Building Code (OBC) provides comprehensive guidelines for constructing safe and accessible buildings. One crucial aspect is the proper sizing and spacing of floor and roof joists, which is outlined in the LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) beam span tables. This article delves into these tables, their significance, and how to interpret them according to the OBC.
Why Use LVL Beams?
LVL beams are engineered wood products known for their strength, consistency, and dimensional stability. They are widely used in residential and commercial construction due to their ability to span longer distances than traditional lumber. The OBC recognizes this and provides specific guidelines for their use.
What are LVL Beam Span Tables?
LVL beam span tables are charts that outline the maximum allowable spacing between supports for LVL beams based on their size and loading conditions. They are essential tools for designers and builders, ensuring structures comply with the OBC and maintain a high level of safety.
Interpreting the LVL Beam Span Tables
To use the LVL beam span tables effectively, you need to understand the following terms:
- Beam Depth: The vertical dimension of the beam, typically measured in inches.
- Beam Width: The horizontal dimension of the beam, usually measured in inches.
- Live Load: The load applied to the beam due to its intended use, such as the weight of furniture or people.
- Dead Load: The weight of the beam itself and any permanent fixtures attached to it.
How to Read the Tables
LVL beam span tables typically display beam depth along the y-axis and beam width along the x-axis. Each cell in the table represents the maximum allowable spacing between supports for a given beam size and loading condition. For example:
| Beam Depth (in) | Beam Width (in) | Live Load (psf) | Dead Load (psf) | Max Span (in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 12 | 40 | 15 | 1200 |
| 12 | 12 | 40 | 15 | 1440 |
In this example, a 10" deep x 12" wide LVL beam with a live load of 40 psf and a dead load of 15 psf can span up to 1200 inches (100 feet) between supports. A 12" deep beam of the same width and loading conditions can span up to 1440 inches (120 feet).
Ontario Building Code Requirements
The OBC requires that all structural elements, including LVL beams, be designed and constructed to resist the loads they will bear. This includes dead loads, live loads, and any other loads they may encounter. The LVL beam span tables provide a starting point for this design process.
When to Consult a Professional
While the LVL beam span tables are a useful tool, they are not a substitute for professional engineering advice. If you are unsure about the loading conditions, beam sizes, or any other aspect of your project, it is always best to consult a licensed professional engineer.
In conclusion, understanding the LVL beam span tables is crucial for anyone involved in the construction process in Ontario. By familiarizing yourself with these tables and the OBC guidelines, you can ensure that your structures are safe, durable, and compliant with all relevant building codes.
More Details
09.04.2026 ... Sample LVL span values for residential floors · 2-ply 9.5 in LVL: maximum span approximately 3.4 m (11 ft) · 2-ply 11.25 in LVL: maximum span ...
The enclosed tables, regulations and schedules are copies of various sections of the 2024 Ontario. Building Code. ... Ledger strip to wood beam. 82. 2 per ...
RIDGE BEAM SPAN TABLE (feet). Loads (psf) tributary width (feet). 5½". 7¼". 9¼". 9½". 11¼". 11½". 11⅞". MINIMUM BEARING REQUIREMENTS: SHADED AREAS: 4½" BEARING ...
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Use these simple calculators to size Trus Joist TimberStrand LSL and Parallam PSL beams and headers. Select the application below you are looking to calculate.
The tables in this guide meet the design requirements of the National Building. Code of Canada for Limit States Design and assume a normal importance category.
Locate a span that meets or exceeds the required beam span, ... addition to complying with the deflection limits of the applicable building code, other deflection ...
Width of Building. Beam Span. Width of Building. Beam Span. Support. Notes: 1 ... This table has been prepared in accordance with the National Building Code ...
25.09.2025 ... spans. Beams made of different materials will support loads differently. An example of this is a wood built-up beam of the same size of a LVL
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Supported length means half the sum of the joist spans on both sides of the beam. (4), Straight interpolation may be used for other supported lengths. (5) ...
30.04.2025 ... In this article, we will focus specifically on LVL beam span tables for Ontario, Canada, under the current 2012 version of the Ontario Building ...
Table 1. Comparison of Ontario's Building Code (OBC) 2012 requirements for wood buildings. Category. <= 3 Storeys. <= 3 ...
03.04.2023 ... standards referenced therein. 3 References in this TER to the National Building Code of Canada (NBC) apply to the Ontario Building Code (OBC), ...
The requirements for the nailing of built-up wood beams are intended to ensure ... Refer to table 9.8.6.3. of the Ontario Building Code. NOTE: Exterior wood ...
... Lumber - Snow Load 2.0 kPa. Spruce, Pine, Fir No.1 & 2 Grade Lumber ... ROOF RAFTER SPAN TABLE. CEILING JOIST SPAN TABLE. Based on a maximum of 32'-0 ...
2.2.) 4) Spans for roof ridge beams shall conform to the spans in Span Table 9.23.4.2.-L for the uniform ...
15.06.2018 ... ... LVL's as well as the Code Span Table for reference. With these you ... Ontario's building code doesn't allow for the dimensional lumber ...
