Fact Check: Are LVLs pressure treated?

Are LVLs Pressure Treated?

The claim in question is whether Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) is pressure treated. This inquiry arises from the need to understand the durability and suitability of LVL for various construction applications, particularly in environments where moisture and pests are concerns.

What We Know

Definition of LVL: Laminated veneer lumber (LVL) is an engineered wood product made by bonding thin layers of wood veneers together with adhesives. This construction method results in a material that is strong and stable, making it a popular choice in construction 1.
Pressure Treatment of LVL: Traditionally, LVL is not pressure treated. However, a specific product known as PWT Treated LVL has been developed by Pacific Woodtech. This product is treated during the manufacturing process, where the veneers are impregnated with preservatives before being laminated. This method is said to enhance the wood's resistance to decay and insect damage 2 3 8.
Unique Treatment Process: The PWT Treated LVL utilizes a proprietary treatment system that ensures the preservative penetrates each veneer layer. This is distinct from conventional pressure treatment methods, which often involve treating the finished product after it has been assembled 9 10.
Warranty and Performance: The PWT Treated LVL is backed by a 25-year warranty against rot and decay, which suggests a level of confidence in its performance in adverse conditions 3 10.

Analysis

The claim regarding the pressure treatment of LVL is nuanced. While standard LVL products are not pressure treated, the introduction of PWT Treated LVL indicates that there are engineered wood products that can be treated to enhance their durability.

Source Evaluation

Wikipedia: The entry on laminated veneer lumber provides a general overview but lacks specific details on treatment processes and does not cite primary sources, which may limit its reliability 1.
Fine Homebuilding: This source discusses the introduction of PWT Treated LVL and cites manufacturers directly involved in the product's development. It appears to be a credible source for construction professionals, although it may have a bias towards promoting new technologies in building materials 2.
Pacific Woodtech: As the manufacturer of PWT Treated LVL, their website provides detailed specifications and warranty information. However, as a commercial entity, there may be a conflict of interest in presenting their product as superior without independent verification 3 5 9.
JLC Online: This publication is known for its focus on construction and building materials. The article discusses the treatment process in detail and appears to be a reliable source, although it may also have a promotional angle due to its focus on specific products 8.
YouTube Source: The video from Next LVL Programming raises questions about LVL properties but lacks depth and does not provide verifiable information or citations, making it less reliable 4.

Methodology and Evidence

The evidence supporting the claim that LVL can be pressure treated is primarily based on the existence of the PWT Treated LVL product. However, the methodology of how this treatment is applied and its effectiveness compared to traditional pressure-treated lumber would benefit from independent studies or third-party evaluations.

Additional Information Needed

To further evaluate the claim, it would be helpful to have:

Independent studies comparing the performance of PWT Treated LVL to traditional pressure-treated lumber.
Consumer reviews or case studies documenting the long-term performance of PWT Treated LVL in various environmental conditions.
Information on the environmental impact of the preservatives used in the treatment process.

Conclusion

Verdict: Partially True

The claim that LVLs are pressure treated is partially true. Standard LVL products are not pressure treated; however, the existence of PWT Treated LVL, which undergoes a unique treatment process during manufacturing, indicates that there are treated options available. This product is designed to enhance resistance to decay and insect damage, supported by a warranty that suggests confidence in its performance.

It is important to note that the treatment process for PWT Treated LVL differs from traditional pressure treatment methods, which may lead to variations in effectiveness. Additionally, the evidence primarily comes from manufacturer sources, which may introduce bias, and independent verification of the treatment's efficacy is limited.

Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate information regarding construction materials and consider the specific context of their applications, as well as seek out independent studies to inform their decisions.