Steico switches to LVL flange I-joists

A phased change to LVL flanges on Steico’s I-joist range and the imminent availability of fire retardant products were the big news on Steico UK’s stand.

Steico currently uses finger-jointed solid timber for the flanges on its I-joists and fibreboard for the webs, but it has found it increasingly difficult to get sufficient quality and volumes of timber.

“The LVL flange will be a better performing product and the main thing is to get continuity of supply,” said Steico UK managing director Andy Moore.

Mr Moore also said LVL flanges would be a better combination for its Ultralam LVL rimboards. The new product, which will be the first LVL/fibreboard I-joist product on the UK market, will be phased in from April.

Steico also introduced “waterproof” Steicoprotectadek P5 T&G flooring panels coated with a waterproof sealant which can be applied to the top and/or bottom of the panel. Test performance data will be released on a fire retardant version of Steicoprotectadek and other FR products soon.

Developments in its wood fibre insulation business include looking at combining plaster and wood fibre to provide both thermal performance and fire protection.

Steico Formwork P20 “yellow beams”, made with a spruce ply web, were also promoted.