Originally posted by jantimot
Rather startled today whilst working under a newish Queenslander to see that the floor beams were only about 7mm thick. Plywood I beams. 400mm centres, span 3m. Claimed to have the same properties as LV beams, but that’s obviously rubbish, the fire resistance would be negligible. Rubbish plywood with huge knots, likewise the top and bottom parts were cheap knotted pine too.
Anyone familiar with this type of, ah, ‘construction’?
Yep, am familiar. The plywood I beams are reliant on good strutting in between to stop sideways deflection.
I would far rather use the traditional treated LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) also plywood in say 200x45 for that type of span.
The I beams are a cheaper option so IMO you only get what you pay for.
LVL miles better but far more expensive.
