Curved Glulam Beams In Portland International Airport (PDX)

Feb. 5, 2025

The mass timber roof structure in the Portland International Airport (PDX) is comprised of a top deck made from 2-in.-thick plywood panels that create the roof diaphragm. Curved glulam beams (some 80 to 90 ft. long) are supported by large steel girders. Nearly 30,000 3x6 sticks were installed on the underside of the glulam beams to create the woven lattice. 
Douglas Fir-Larch glue-laminated timber, called glulam, enhances the strength and versatility of the wood. Supporting the construction of taller, larger, and structurally efficient panels, the dense softwood is a key component of mass timber products. 

For more information, visit the project webpage.

Timberlab

Courtesy of Vaagen Timbers
Glulam Trusses
Courtesy of Mercer Mass Timber
CLT Rib Panel for Long-Span Mass Timber
Courtesy of Sterling Structural
TerraLam CLT Panels