Estimate LVL beam reactions, shear, bending moment, bending stress, shear stress, deflection, span ratio, and basic utilization checks. Use this LVL beam calculator for laminated veneer lumber beams, built-up LVL headers, floor beams, girders, garage openings, and preliminary structural planning.
Section properties:
The calculator uses LVL ply thickness, beam depth, and number of plies to estimate area, section modulus, and moment of inertia.
Load check:
The calculator combines applied uniform load, beam self weight, and center point load to estimate total beam load.
Bending and shear:
The calculator estimates bending stress and shear stress, then compares them to the entered LVL design values.
Deflection check:
The calculator estimates deflection and compares it to the selected limit, such as L/360 or L/480.
An LVL beam calculator helps estimate whether a selected laminated veneer lumber beam may be reasonable for a simple span and load.
It can help compare load, reactions, bending moment, bending stress, shear stress, deflection, span ratio, beam plies, and basic utilization percentages.
Your result shows estimated LVL beam area, section modulus, moment of inertia, total load, support reactions, maximum shear, maximum bending moment, bending stress, shear stress, deflection, allowable deflection, and utilization percentages. These are planning estimates only and do not replace manufacturer span tables or structural design.
LVL stands for laminated veneer lumber. It is an engineered wood product made from thin wood veneers bonded together to create a strong, predictable beam or header.
The number of plies depends on span, load, depth, product design values, bearing, connections, and local code requirements. This calculator gives a rough estimate, not a final beam design.
Use the manufacturer’s product literature or span tables for the exact LVL series you plan to use. Design values vary by brand, grade, depth, and product line.
No. Final LVL sizing should use approved manufacturer span tables, engineering design, local building code requirements, and professional review when required.