These large, thick panels are known as cross-laminated timbers. While traditional lumber comes as a single piece, it’s possible to create a sturdy, durable product by gluing and pressing multiple pieces together in layers. But you can take those low-quality hardwoods and create something with significant added value.” “It’s used for pallets, boxes, railroad ties and flooring.

“Half of the hardwood harvested for sawtimber in West Virginia is considered low-quality lumber because it has too many knots and other defects,” McNeel said. Yellow poplar grows straight, has small limbs and processes easily, making it well suited for construction. The professor and director of the WVU Appalachian Hardwood Center at the Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design has been testing the effectiveness of yellow poplar, an abundant West Virginia species, as a source of engineered wood building material. What may be considered lower grade West Virginia hardwood lumber can serve as an affordable, sustainable alternative to traditional building materials like softwood, steel and concrete, according to West Virginia University professor Joseph McNeel.

Advance steel 2018 download