Wednesday’s Word of the Week: Stock Beam Designations

There are three short-hand terms Unalam uses to describe straight glulam members with no fabrication. 


Double End Trim (DET) indicates a glulam beam with square end cuts at both ends. The member is cut to a specified, finished length. 

One End Wild (OEW) has a square cut at one end only. The other end is uncut and rough, just as it was glued.


Both Ends Wild (BEW) beams have not been cut on either end.

Beams with wild ends save a bit of cost in layout and end cuts. They are most often specified when the exact length needed on a project is unknown, so the beam can be cut in the field as required. It is important to apply end sealer immediately after making any end cuts, whether in the shop or the field, to slow movement of moisture through the end grain.