Framing Matters: Why We Use LVL in Every Inner West Project

21 May

Why HXD Uses LVLs Over 90x45 H2 Pine in Renovations, Extensions & Additions
By HXD – Builders Specialising in Renovations Across Sydney’s Inner West

When you're investing in a quality home renovation or extension, the materials inside your walls matter just as much as the finishes you see. One of the most important decisions is what kind of timber is used for wall framing—and at HXD, we consistently choose LVLs (Laminated Veneer Lumber) over standard 90x45 H2 pine.

But what’s the difference, and why does it matter for your Inner West home?

LVLs vs 90x45 H2 Pine: What’s the Difference?

90x45 H2 pine is a widely used structural softwood in residential construction. It’s treated for termite resistance (that’s what the H2 rating indicates) and milled from solid pine. As a natural product, pine can vary in quality, shape, and strength—and it’s prone to bowing, twisting, and shrinking as it responds to moisture and temperature changes.

LVLs, or Laminated Veneer Lumber, are a type of engineered timber made by layering thin sheets of wood veneers and bonding them under pressure. This results in a product that is:

Stronger and more stable
More uniform in shape and size
Far less likely to warp, twist, or cup over time

Just like H2 pine, the LVLs we use are treated for termite protection, giving Inner West homes the durability they need in Sydney’s conditions.

Why We Prefer LVLs for Renovations and Extensions in the Inner West

1. Straighter Walls Mean Better Results

Older homes in the Inner West rarely have perfect walls or floors to begin with—so adding new framing that’s already warped only compounds the challenge. LVLs are engineered to remain consistently straight, which gives us a better foundation for:

Lining and plasterboard
Joinery and cabinetry installations
Clean tile lines and square finishes

Straight framing creates a ripple effect: everything else just fits better.

2. Superior Strength for Structural Confidence

LVLs outperform pine in structural performance. They’re stronger, stiffer, and better at spanning larger areas without sagging. That makes them ideal for:

Second-storey additions
Large open-plan renovations
Supporting concentrated loads from above

We often rely on LVLs in key load-bearing areas where structural integrity is critical—and peace of mind is non-negotiable.

3. Faster Installation, Fewer On-Site Delays

Because LVLs are more stable and consistent, our team can install framing faster and more accurately. With pine, we often lose time adjusting warped or bowed studs. LVLs reduce that margin for error, helping us stay on schedule—especially valuable in tight-access suburbs like Leichhardt, Marrickville, or Annandale.

4. Long-Term Value for Your Renovation Investment

It’s true—LVLs cost more up front. But they also reduce rework, shorten installation time, and hold their form over the life of your home. That means fewer future issues like:

Cracking cornices and architraves
Doors out of square
Movement in your walls

When you’re spending six figures on a renovation or extension, using quality materials that last is just common sense.

How HXD Builds Better

At HXD, we’ve built a reputation across the Inner West for delivering high-quality renovations, extensions, and additions. Choosing LVLs over pine is just one of the ways we ensure our builds perform just as well behind the scenes as they do in the spotlight.