Glulams are made in a wide range of sizes, stiffnesses and strengths by face-laminating dimension lumber with structural adhesives. The lamination process yields beams that are longer, wider and deeper than sawn beams, so a glulam uses wood more efficiently than a sawn beam. Glulams are produced in three grades: Industrial, Architectural and Premium. They are normally produced with a slight camber (crown) so that once loaded with weight, they will lie nearly flat.
Gulams can be made with a curve or arch for exposed architectural purposes.