I have some true 2×4 rough cut lumber that I would like to plane and glue together to form a beam for a 12ft opening. I plan to glue the beam together using c clamps and maybe biscuits to help keep the pieces aligned. The beam will be exposed so I’d like to avoid fastners or at least limit them. I’ve checked the span tables and have enough material to make an appropriately sized beam, but I’m concerned about getting a uniform application of the glue. Does anyone have ideas about a good glue, and how to apply it?
Discussion Forum
Discussion Forum
Up Next
Video Shorts
Featured Story
This fastening system from Nova USA Wood Products accommodates natural wood siding expansion and contraction.
Highlights
"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.
Replies
I've had a lot of success with Gougeon Bros. epoxy building 19' beams for boats. It can be spread with a spatula. I build them layer by layer using silicon-bronze ring nails to keep the wood in alingment and then clamped it all together.
Others have used rescorcinol (sp) glue for the same result. Definitely able to stand the elements!
An ex-boat builder treading water!
The lumber is nice old dry stuff, right? If it new and green, many wood glues won't bond to it.
Polyurethane glue will bond damp wood, but it requires a close fit to develop maximum strength, cannot be used as a gap filling glue. Wet as in just rained on might be a bit much, but if there's no liquid water on the joint surfaces, it should do OK.