Would you recommend LVL Termispan joists for deck?

[Daz591]

Hi there,

Has anyone ever used LVL Termispan joists for an above ground decking structure? If so, would you recommend it?

Cheers

[MitchellMc]

Hi @Daz591,

Do you have any particular questions that our members might be able to help you with?

That product appears to be an LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) with a treatment to help protect against termites. It sounds quite similar to the range of red treated LVLs available at Bunnings.

In general, treated LVL beams can be a really good choice for deck construction. Because they’re engineered, LVLs are typically straighter, more uniform, and less prone to warping or twisting compared to traditional solid timber. They're also excellent when it comes to spanning greater distances without needing as much support underneath, which can give you a cleaner and more open structure for your deck.

If you’re considering an LVL for your project, it would still be worth checking that the treatment level and rating are appropriate for your location and exposure conditions. Also, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for sealing cut ends and protecting the structure long-term. 

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

[Daz591]

Thanks Mitchell,

Yes, that is the product I was thinking of. My current (rotten) joists are 100mm x 50mm, so this product sounds ideal. I have noticed that some of the existing hardwood joists were 95mm and so the builders have used fibre cement pieces as packing. I don't want to copy this dodgy practice. What do you suggest I use if I need to use any packing?  See picture below:

[MitchellMc]

You could just use a 100mm LVL @Daz591, but I would suggest painting the base where it sits on the flashing with bitumen paint to help prevent water ingress into it.

Mitchell

[Daz591]

Will do.

Thanks

[Daz591]

Hi Mitchell,

I clicked on your link for red treated LVL'S available at Bunnings however it would appear that they do not hold this line. The link takes me to the red LVL's, but they are not suitable for external use. I can't seem to find the red "termispan" LVL's on the Bunnings website. Maybe I am missing something?

Cheers

[MitchellMc]

Sorry @Daz591. I've overlooked the fact that you want to use them for an exterior purpose. LVL's are typically rated for indoor use and only H2-rated, not H3. Having a quick look, I can't find confirmation that the product you are referencing is suitable for exterior use, only a mention of internal use. Bunnings does not stock Termispan LVL's as that's a proprietary brand name. We stock red-coloured LVL's that are termite-resistant. Rightly so, you've pointed out that they are only suitable for internal use. You'd need one that is also H3-treated for external use.

You might like to speak with the Special Orders team at your local Bunnings store. They can check with the suppliers in your area to determine whether a termite-resistant and suitably treated LVL is available for external use.

Mitchell