Two of the main types of solid wood core options are TimberStrand® Laminated Strand Lumber (LSL) and stave core.
Both are engineered wood products used in construction and various structural applications. In most cases, either will get the job done, but how do they compare? What are the differences between them?
We’ll break it down, so you better understand your options and make an informed decision when it comes to purchasing stave lumber core from Western Core Company.
TimberStrand® Laminated Strand Lumber is made out of fast-growing Aspen and Balsam Poplars.
Here at Western Core Company, we manufacture a higher-quality stave lumber core using quality Ponderosa Pine, Douglas Fir, and White Fir. These woods are an ideal option due to their availability, strength, and favorable structural properties.
The manufacturing process starts with the aspen trees, which are debarked, cleaned, and cut into long strands.
The strands are then dried and glued together using a moisture-resistant adhesive.
The strands are typically oriented in the same direction to maximize strength and stability.
A steam injection process then presses the strands into sheets of wood.
To manufacture stave core, solid lumber pieces that are edge-glued together, glued, pressed, and dried.
At Western Core, we use the entire board and remove knots and other defects to boost durability and strength.
The wood is glued together using an eco-friendly and waterproof Type 1 PVA (Polyvinyl acetate) glue.
After gluing, it is pressed together using a Radio Frequency (RF) press system. It is then kiln-dried into sheets.
Stave Core
TimberStrand® is engineered to hold fasteners — such as dowels, screws, and nails — without splitting or becoming damaged.
However, that’s usually only when you put the fasteners through the face of the core. If you go in through the edges, it loses screw withdrawal and can splinter.
Thanks to our design and drying process, screws and nails can go in our stave core in any direction without causing damage — even through the edges.
Both TimberStrand® LSL and stave core are known to be incredibly strong, durable wood products.
LSL and stave core is more than strong and durable enough for almost all industrial applications, including solid cores doors for commercial and residential projects, including:
LSL is generally noted to have fewer defects and knots and be more consistent in quality than stave core.
However, when comparing it to Western Core’s products, that isn't necessarily the case.
Unlike some manufacturers who use waste and leftover lumber pieces with lots of defects, we purchase raw materials specifically for stave core.
We’re using higher-quality lumber and taking time to remove knots and other defects, resulting in a consistently straight, strong, and durable lumber core that's equal or better quality than LSL.
Stave core is lighter than TimberStrand®, which can have a positive impact when it comes to shipping, labor, and ease of installation.
A lower-weight core will naturally be easier to lift, maneuver, and machine in the manufacturing plant, resulting in less wear and tear on employees and machines and longer machine life.
Because of its lower weight, the process of installing the final door can also be easier and more efficient.
Of course, weight also greatly impacts shipping since you’re generally charged by weight.
Since stave core weighs less, you can ship more products for the same price. While LSL may initially cost less, those cost-savings are often negated due to additional shipping costs.
If you really want to know how our stave core compares to TimberStrand® and other cores, you have to see it for yourself. Request a sample to get started, and our team will be in touch!
Our samples are a great way to see our core in person, so you can make sure it meets the strict requirements for your products and customers.
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