Framing timber is the structural backbone of most Australian homes, commercial buildings, and infrastructure projects. It forms the internal skeleton that supports roofing, cladding, flooring, and internal walls. While traditional framing timber like MGP10 pine has long been a builder’s go-to, modern engineered alternatives like Kerto® LVL E9.2 T-Studs are gaining popularity for their strength, reliability, and efficiency on site.
We’ll break down the types of framing timber available in Australia, when to use them, and why Kerto LVL is emerging as one of the smartest framing choices available today.
What Is Framing Timber Used For?
Framing timber is used to construct the structural framework of buildings. It’s most commonly used for:
| Wall frames | Roof trusses | Floor joists |
| Studs and plates | Lintels and noggings |
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Because these components must carry significant loads and remain straight over time, the quality, strength, and durability of the timber used are critical.
| Timber Type | Details |
|---|---|
| MGP10 / MGP12 Pine (Machine Grade Pine) |
Plantation-grown softwood, most commonly radiata or slash pine. Machine graded for strength and stiffness. • Straight and lightweight • Affordable and widely available • Often used in residential construction MGP10 is suitable for most general framing applications, while MGP12 offers higher strength for more demanding designs. View Construction Timber Products |
| F7 Hardwood |
Common structural grading for mixed hardwood species. Used in renovations or where hardwood is preferred. • Higher density • Natural durability (especially for exposed areas) • Slightly more variation in straightness and availability |
| H2 Treated Timber |
Treated against borers and termites above ground (south of the Tropic of Capricorn). • Enhanced durability • Used for non-exposed indoor framing • Available in MGP10 and MGP12 grades View Construction Timber Products |
| Kerto® LVL E9.2 T-Studs |
Kerto LVL is made from glued layers of rotary-peeled Nordic spruce veneers, delivering high strength and dimensional stability. Why Builders are using it: • Higher strength than MGP10 or MGP12 • Consistent, straight lengths • Lightweight and easy to install • No twisting or bowing • Made from sustainable Nordic spruce • Kerto LVL E9.2 T-stud is H2 treated The Kerto LVL T-Stud from Metsa is now available for sale from all ATS Trade Centres |
Is Kerto LVL E9.2 Right for Your Framing Project?
If your project calls for long spans, high strength, reduced site time, or increased reliability, Kerto LVL E9.2 T-Studs are an ideal choice. Whether it’s for residential framing, commercial builds, or prefabrication, LVL is designed for precision and performance.
Kerto is especially well suited to:
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Builders seeking to reduce installation time
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Designers needing accurate, stable structural members
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High-volume projects where material consistency is essential
You can learn more about the specific properties of the Kerto LVL T-Stud in our technical overview article: What Is an LVL T-Stud?
Framing Timber vs Kerto LVL E9.2 T-Stud – Quick Comparison
| Feature | Traditional Framing Timber | Kerto® LVL E9.2 T-Stud |
|---|---|---|
| Strength Class | MGP10 / MGP12 / F7 | E9.2 (Higher than MGP) |
| Straightness | May vary depending on grade | Highly consistent, engineered straight |
| Length Availability | Standard sizes | Available in custom lengths |
| Applications | General framing | Precision framing, long spans, prefabrication |
Framing timber comes in a range of options, each with its own performance profile. But when high strength, long spans, and construction efficiency are key priorities, Kerto® LVL E9.2 T-Studs are a high-performance alternative worth considering. Engineered to be stronger, straighter, and lighter, they offer real advantages on modern job sites.
To explore options or request a quote, contact ATS Building Products.
Also explore our Engineered Wood range to learn more about timber innovations driving the construction industry forward.