Comparison of BSH, LVL and TCL technologies
Laminated timber, especially its modern variants such as TCL, is the foundation of contemporary timber architecture. This technology not only increases the strength of structures, but also opens up new design possibilities. Where other materials fail, TCLwood618® steps in, offering virtually unlimited possibilities.
BSH timber
Structure and properties of BSH
BSH timber (Brettschichtholz, also known as Glued Laminated Timber – glulam) consists of laminated lamellas, usually spruce, joined with micro-joints. In accordance with EN 14080, these elements can reach impressive lengths of up to 40 meters while maintaining excellent load-bearing properties.
Thanks to its stability and resistance to weather conditions, BSH is often used in large-scale constructions. What is more, its lightness compared to steel or reinforced concrete reduces transport and assembly costs.
Applications of BSH timber
BSH beams are used, among other things, in:
- sports and industrial halls,
- roof structures,
- load-bearing elements of buildings,
- environmentally friendly alternatives to concrete and steel.
LVL – high-strength plywood
Characteristics of LVL
LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) consists of thin veneers (≤6 mm) glued together, arranged parallel to the grain or with additional cross layers. This gives the material exceptional uniformity and a high strength-to-weight ratio. Its high quality is confirmed by compliance with the EN 14374 standard.
The main advantages of LVL
- Very low susceptibility to warping.
- Production in the form of large slabs enables beams of any dimensions to be cut.
- An excellent option for ceiling and roof beams, lintels and CLT reinforcements.
TCL – next-generation flexibility
What makes TCL timber stand out?
TCL (Thin Construction Lamella) is a modern technology for bonding thin lamellas (6–18 mm). Such elements achieve a minimum bending radius of R = 150 mm, making them ideal for projects with complex shapes.
Manufactured by Jagram-Pro under the TCLwood618® brand, these components are produced in accordance with quality control procedures, using formaldehyde-free polyurethane adhesives.
Applications of TCL wood
TCL is suitable for:
- pergolas, shelters and terrace roofing,
- free form elements, such as curved and complex ceiling shapes, shopping centers finishes, individual design projects,
- large structures where thin slats are required.
BSH vs LVL vs TCL – key differences
| Features | BSH | LVL | TCL |
| Thickness of lamellas | 20–45 mm | ≤6 mm (veneer) | 6–18 mm |
| Bending radius | ≥3–4 m | Usually simple forms | ≤0,15 m |
| Homogeneity | Good | Very high | High |
| Standard form | Straight or slightly curved | Plates and straight beams | Curved and spiral |
| Standard | EN 14080 | EN 14374 | Internal QA + CE |
| Price (approximate) | 1,0 | 1,1–1,4 × BSH | 1,2–1,6 × BSH |
How to choose the right type of glued wood?
The choice of technology depends on:
- static requirements,
- the shape of the designed elements,
- expected aesthetics and function
- destination of the structure.
BSH is best suited for simple hall structures. If you want maximum material uniformity, choose LVL. However, if your design requires arches, spirals or free forms, TCL will be unrivaled.
Summary
Glued laminated timber is currently one of the most flexible and environmentally friendly construction materials. By choosing BSH, LVL or TCL, you gain not only strength and stability, but also a modern look and lower installation and transport costs. TCLwood618® technology from Jagram-Pro opens up new possibilities for architects, engineers and investors.