Structural finger-jointed solid timber is an engineered wood product made for load-bearing applications, specifically crafted by joining shorter pieces of solid wood lengthwise.
Understanding Finger-Jointed Timber
This type of timber is created by milling interlocking "finger-like" profiles into the ends of wood pieces. These finger joints are then coated with adhesive and pressed together, forming a continuous length. This process allows for the efficient use of shorter lengths of wood, while still achieving the required structural strength for load-bearing applications.
Key Features of Structural Finger-Jointed Solid Timber
Here are some notable aspects of this type of timber:
- Solid Wood: It is made from solid pieces of wood, not from composite materials.
- Lengthwise Connection: The primary joining of wood occurs along its length.
- Finger Joints: These milled, interlocking shapes create a strong, reliable bond.
- Adhesive Bonding: High-strength adhesives permanently join the finger-joints.
- Structural Grade: Specifically engineered for load-bearing purposes.
- EU Standard Compliance: Produced to meet the requirements of the harmonized EU-standard EIN EN 15497.
How Finger Joints Work
- Milling: Interlocking finger-like shapes are milled into the ends of the wood pieces.
- Adhesive Application: The surfaces of the finger joints are coated with a strong adhesive.
- Pressing: The wood pieces are pressed together, forcing the finger joints to interlock tightly.
- Bonding: The adhesive cures, creating a strong and permanent joint.
Advantages
- Efficient Material Use: Allows the use of shorter lengths of wood which helps to reduce waste.
- Consistent Strength: The manufacturing process ensures a more uniform strength across the entire length of the timber, unlike natural wood which can have variations and weaknesses.
- Long Lengths: Enables the production of long timber components, ideal for various structural applications.
Applications
Structural finger-jointed solid timber is commonly used in:
- Roof structures, including purlins.
- Wall framing.
- Floor joists.
- Other structural elements that require strength and stability.
