Which engineered wood product consists of layers of wood members joined with adhesive?

Glued laminated timber, often referred to as glulam, is an engineered wood product made by layering individual pieces of wood, typically lumber, that are adhered together with durable adhesives. This process allows for the creation of beams and structures that are both strong and structurally versatile, as the layered construction can be designed to optimize performance for specific applications.

The distinctive approach of glulam manufacturing results in products that can be longer and more resilient than solid timber of the same dimensions. The laminated layers enhance dimensional stability, reduce warping, and allow for intricate design possibilities. Glulam is often utilized in large structural applications such as bridges, high ceilings, and other frameworks where strength and design flexibility are necessary.

Other engineered wood products, while also made from wood or wood fibers, have different construction methods and purposes. For example, oriented strand board is made from strands of wood that are oriented and bonded together, while plywood is created from thin sheets of wood veneer that are glued at alternating angles to enhance strength. Composite lumber typically consists of recycled plastic and wood fibers, focusing more on sustainability and reduced maintenance rather than the structural benefits provided by the glued laminated process.