Case study: Build more square meters and save 60% in wood material

Kerto^® LVL is a compelling option to steel and concrete but outperforms also other wood-based solutions. The strength-to weight-ratio of Kerto LVL is close to steel and allows to build load-bearing structures with less material, leading to lighter elements, less emissions and more square meters for habiting the building. 

For example, in a load-bearing exterior wall element, switching from 140 mm thick CLT to a 69 mm thick Kerto LVL Q-panel with equivalent load-bearing capacity means a 51% reduction in the use of wood material, resulting in a 71 mm thinner wall element. For every 15 meter of outer wall in an apartment, you will get 1 extra square meter floor area to sell or rent. 

The construction adheres to Swedish regulations and is designed as an 8-storey residential building with a floor plan measuring 20 x 16 meters. It meets the fire safety requirements with a Fire class R90 for load-bearing walls and R60 for floors. The building ensures acoustic comfort with partition walls classified as sound class B, based on recommendations from an acoustic designer. 

60% less wood consumption with Kerto LVL

Both the outer and internal walls are load-bearing and bracing walls, while the insulation is done using mineral wool. Additionally, the building is designed to withstand a snow load of 2.0 kN/m² and a wind load of 24 m/s, corresponding to terrain type II in Stockholm.

* Please note that this is a comparison made for the Swedish market, but do not hesitate to get in touch with your local sales representative to find a solution for your needs and requirements. This design is performed by Construction technology consultant: Bjerking AB.

When building with CLT, not only load bearing outer walls are required but also load bearing walls are required within the apartment, as intermediet floors are shorter. When building with Kerto LVL no load-bearing inner walls are required, becuase the load is carried by the apartments outer walls.