Weyerhaeuser 1-3/4 x 11-7/8 VERSA-LAM LVL 2.0E 2800Fb

The 1-3/4” x 11-7/8” VERSA-LAM LVL 2.0E 2800Fb delivers engineered consistency that dimensional lumber can’t match. For Montana contractors dealing with long spans in ranch homes and agricultural buildings, this beam offers 2800 psi bending stress capacity in a product that won’t twist, crown, or split when temperature swings hit.

Load Capacity and Engineering Performance

2800 psi bending stress (Fb) puts this LVL well above dimensional lumber territory. The 2.0 x 10^6 psi modulus of elasticity means predictable deflection calculations that actually match field performance. Horizontal shear strength runs 285-290 psi, while compression perpendicular to grain hits 750 psi — critical for bearing on plates and posts.

Specification	Value
Bending Stress (Fb)	2800 psi
Modulus of Elasticity (E)	2.0 x 10^6 psi
Horizontal Shear (Fv)	285-290 psi
Compression Perpendicular (Fc⊥)	750 psi
Weight per Linear Foot	~5.5-6.0 lbs
Specific Gravity	0.50

The comparison to glulam tells the story. Higher bending strength and stiffness (E-value) than standard stock glulam (e.g., 24F-V4). That extra stiffness matters when you’re spanning 20+ feet over a great room or supporting floor loads above a garage.

Installation Requirements and Field Assembly

1-3/4” minimum end bearing; 3-1/2” intermediate bearing gives contractors workable bearing requirements without overbuilding posts. Multi-ply beams need specific fastening — 2 rows of 16d nails at 12” o.c. for 2-ply assemblies. No guesswork.

Compatible with standard framing hangers (Simpson Strong-Tie or USP) means you’re not hunting for specialty hardware. The 11-7/8” depth matches standard wall framing depths, eliminating the shimming and packing that comes with odd-sized beams.

Can be cut to length with standard saws; do not notch or drill without consulting manufacturer’s hole charts. That restriction matters — drilling holes in the wrong spot compromises the entire beam.

Real Advantages Over Dimensional Lumber

No camber allows for flat floors and walls. Try achieving that with a crowned 2x12. The dimensional stability shows up in resists warping, twisting, and shrinking — particularly valuable when Montana’s temperature swings from -30°F to 90°F across seasons.

At ~5.5-6.0 lbs per linear foot, a 20-foot beam weighs around 120 pounds. Heavy enough to need two people, light enough that those two people can actually position it. Easily built up on site to reduce heavy lifting beats wrestling pre-built triple 2x12s into place.

Extremely straight, consistent quality, saves time over building headers from dimensional lumber according to contractor feedback. The time savings alone justifies the cost on busy jobsites.

Bottom Line

This LVL makes sense for headers over 8-foot spans, main floor girders, and anywhere dimensional lumber would require tripling up 2x12s. The ICC-ES ESR-1040 (Boise Cascade VERSA-LAM) certification covers code compliance. Lifetime Limited Warranty applies when installed properly in dry conditions.

Not cheap. But for critical structural members where deflection matters and callbacks cost money, the engineered consistency pays for itself.

FAQ

What’s the actual manufacturer of VERSA-LAM?

The product name in the query ‘Weyerhaeuser VERSA-LAM’ combines the brand names of two different manufacturers: Weyerhaeuser (MicroLam) and Boise Cascade (VERSA-LAM). The 2800Fb rating is specifically associated with the Boise Cascade VERSA-LAM 2.0E product, whereas Weyerhaeuser’s 2.0E MicroLam is typically rated at 2900Fb. Both products perform similarly in the field.

How does this compare to steel beams?

Lighter and easier to cut/install with standard carpentry tools, though steel may be required for extreme loads or very long spans. For typical residential headers and floor girders, LVL handles the loads without specialty tools or welding.

Can I store these beams outside before installation?

Store flat and off the ground; keep dry until installation. Montana weather will damage exposed LVL — warping and delamination aren’t covered under warranty.

What are the main applications for 11-7/8” depth LVL?

Primary uses include beams and headers for windows and doors, floor girders and main support beams, stair stringers, rim boards, garage door headers. The 11-7/8” depth works perfectly for floor systems using 2x12 joists or TJI-compatible assemblies.