Unalam

Tudor Arch – Wednesday’s Word Of The Week

Posted on
Horse riding arena made with Tudor arches

This week we will cover a classic glulam shape, the Tudor arch. This is the most common type of arch used in glulam construction, striking a balance between economy and aesthetics of glulam framing and building shape. A Tudor arch forms a building with straight, vertical walls and simple sloped roof – easily clad and roofed. On the inside, it is clear open span. The glulam profile is typically tapered and has a curved transition.

Many churches use Tudor arch construction

Several parts of Tudor arches have special names. Starting at the bottom:

Base = bottom of arch
Leg = Vertical portion of arch (“back” of arch is the outside face of the leg)
Lower Tangent = point where inside face of leg changes from straight to curved
Knee = transition from leg to arm of arch, deepest part of arch, sometimes shipped partially detached
Arm = sloped portion of arch
Upper tangent = point where inside face of arm changes from curved to straight
Inside radius = inside face between lower and upper tangents (typically 7′-0″ for southern yellow pine, 9′-4″ for douglas fir)
Peak = top of building, where two arches connect

Half span = horizontal dimension from back of arch to peak


We have been manufacturing Tudor arches for a long time

*Wednesday’s Word Of The Week is a new feature on Unalam’s Wood Times Blog. Each Wednesday our structural engineer, Rik Vandermeulen, will discuss a new term associated with glulam manufacturing. He will do this until we run out of words. If there is a timber or glulam term that you have heard of and want to know more about, let us know in the comments.

Recent Articles

Your Project, Our Expertise

For over 100 years, Unalam has pushed the boundaries of wood manufacturing. If it can be done with wood, we can do it. Let’s bring your vision to life.

Your Project Starts Here

Unalam is looking for new team members

We offer a generous benefit package, including health and dental insurance and an employer matcher 401k. Our positive business philosophy creates a fun work environment for all employees.

APPLY TODAY

Ready to get started on your project?

Get a Quote