SERVICE CLASSES
The Service Class defines the environmental conditions in which glue laminated beams may be used. There are three service classes defined as shown in the following table.
Definition of Environmental Conditions for Glulam Service Classes
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Service Class
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Description
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Environmental Conditions
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1
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Interior
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Service Class characterised by moisture content in the materials corresponding to a temperature of 30°C and relative humidity of the surrounding air only exceeding 65% for a few weeks per year. For example: Domestic Houses, Commercial Offices.
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2
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Exterior, under cover
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Service Class characterised by moisture content in the materials corresponding to a temperature of 20°C and relative humidity of the surrounding air only exceeding 85% for a few weeks per year. For example: Open sheds, exposed beams under soffits, porches, wool scouring plants, laundries.
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3
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Exterior, fully exposed
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Service Class characterised by climatic conditions leading to higher moisture content than Service Class 2, or where timber is directly exposed to sun and/or rain. For example: Marine structures, bridges.
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