Homestead mailing list

[Gene GeRue <genegerue AT ruralize.com>]

On Oct 3, 2007, at 12:29 PM, Clansgian AT wmconnect.com wrote:

> Faced with needing some such large timbers in my building, I began to
> laminate available wood.  If I needed  6x8's, I got three 2x8's and  
> bolted them
> together.  Since the grain can be vaired somewhat, the resulting  
> laminated beam is
> stronger than a solid one.

Yes, it is.

One reason I like solid beams is the aesthetics. I just like the look  
of a big chunk of tree trunk. Now, if the beam will be hidden, then  
laminating is superior.

My old log barn is falling apart. I will take down at least the front  
half that is falling in as soon as the metal barn provides a safe  
place to put those hand-hewn oak logs. Who among us will make beams  
by hand today?