Norway spruce has recently passed muster from strength testing to be used for a number of construction applications. The species was approved by the American Lumber Standards Committee (ALSC) in October for use in home construction areas such as wall studs, floor and ceiling joists, and industrial applications.
It is the first new U.S.-grown softwood species to be fully tested for strength values since the initial process for assigning design values from testing of wood samples began in the 1920s.
Norway spruce samples were destructively tested, and lumber strength data was calculated for the entire spectrum of design values: Modulus of Elasticity (MOE), Fiber Stress in Bending, Tension Parallel to Grain, Horizontal Shear, and Compression Parallel and Perpendicular to Grain.
Once cut into logs, Norway spruce is virtually indistinguishable from native eastern spruce species, with even the most experienced of graders not able to discern one species from the other, according to a press release from Northeaster Lumber Manufacturers Association.
About 50% of Norway spruce is located throughout New York State. The species can also be found in Maine, down into southern New England, and as far west as Wisconsin.
Related Stories
Wood | Mar 2, 2017
These are the 2017 WoodWorks Wood Design Award winners
Winners were selected in categories such as wood school design, commercial wood design, wood in government buildings, and green building with wood.
Wood | Jan 13, 2017
Steel and concrete's take on tall wood
The American Institute of Steel Construction contends that the steel industry is a “world leader” in using recycled material and end-of-life recycling, and has made strides to lower greenhouse gas emissions below regulatory requirements.
Game Changers | Jan 12, 2017
Mass timber: From 'What the heck is that?' to 'Wow!'
The idea of using mass timber for tall buildings keeps gaining converts.
Wood | Nov 1, 2016
Oregon lumber provider unveils mass plywood panel for tall wood structures
Designed as an alternative for cross laminated timber (CLT), MPP is a large-scale plywood panel with maximum finished panel dimensions up to 12 feet wide by 48 feet long and up to 24 inches thick.
Sponsored | Wood | Oct 26, 2016
Compelling conversations about wood: East and West Coast regional challenges
Fast-rising designers Ben Kasdan and Blake Jackson offer candid perspectives from both coasts on the merits—and challenges—of designing with wood and compare notes on how architects can change perceptions by dreaming big and pushing boundaries.
Sponsored | Wood | Oct 13, 2016
Engineered wood provides sustainable options, cost savings, and design flexibility
Designers choose engineered wood to deliver strength, stability, and a sustainable solution for complex structural designs
Wood | Oct 13, 2016
Concept from Perkins+Will could become the world’s tallest timber tower
River Beech Tower is said to be a part of a masterplan along the Chicago River.
Wood | Sep 21, 2016
‘The Smile’ showcases the structural potential of CLT
Weight for weight, CLT is stronger than concrete and can be machined to incredibly high tolerances.
Wood | Sep 6, 2016
Atlanta suburb prohibits wood-framed construction for high rises
The new building code prevents any structure with more than three stories from being built from a CLT frame.
Great Solutions | Aug 23, 2016
Reclaimed wood paneling adds color to retail and hospitality projects
Colorburst panels are available in four stock options—Robin Egg Blue, Viridian Green, Haute Pink, and Cascade White—as well as custom colors.