PLX Bracing

PLX Column

A powerful bracing solution for open-plan designs

The Prolam PLX Column is a breakthrough in structural timber design. Developed in collaboration with architects, engineers and builders, it overcomes a key challenge in modern construction: achieving bracing requirements without sacrificing space or layout. 

Delivering up to 130 bracing units in a single glulam member, the PLX Column is a space-saving, space-making solution for today’s homes. Available in 400mm x 90mm or 360mm x 90mm sizes, its compact footprint and high bracing capacity in minimal wall lengths allow you to create wider openings, cleaner lines and more light-filled, liveable interiors.

Cutting complexity on-site

A simple fix and go solution, the PLX Column is delivered as a build-ready kitset including the prefabricated column and foundation connection. 

Confident compliance

The product of extensive R&D and put through its paces at our testing facility,  ProLab, the PLX Column meets and exceeds New Zealand building code requirements.

Tested in accordance with the BRANZ P21 (2010) bracing test and evaluation procedure, and third-party verified, the PLX Column provides bracing units to resist wind and earthquake loads. 

Discover a smarter way to brace today.

Applications

The PLX Column has a wide range of applications for single-storey dwellings and the ground floor of multi-storey buildings, such as narrow townhouses and terrace houses, where space is at a premium.

It is ideal for:

• Open plan living areas. 
• Kitchens. 
• Entryways. 
• Wing walls.
• Large openings.

Or anywhere you need bracing and have or want minimal wall lengths.


A cut above

• Premium glulam structural timber column 
• Exceptional bracing capacity in minimal wall lengths
• Angled anchors for edges of insulated foundations
• Delivered as a prefabricated kit-set including fixings, ready to install
• Cut to length on site for an exact fit
• Connects easily to other timber members (no packing needed)
• Lightweight and easy to install
• Designed, tested and certified with PS1 producer statement
• A sustainable choice – made from NZ plantation grown pine
• NZ-made innovation
• Available nationwide

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Product Downloads

Timber used for laminating is carefully selected and graded to strict Prolam specifications. All timber stock is kiln-dried to an average moisture content of 13% to ensure efficient bonding during the gluing process.

The laminations are machine finger jointed where required, with glue cured using state-of-the-art European press systems under controlled temperature. PLX Column products are available in non-visual utility grades for internal dry (H1.2) use only. All structural timber products must be stored, handled, and installed in accordance with Prolam's installation requirements. 

Limitations on use

The PLX Column has been specifically designed and independently tested in New Zealand to deliver a structural bracing solution for residential buildings within the scope of NZS3604. Testing was conducted in accordance with the BRANZ P21 (2010) bracing test and evaluation procedure, as cited in NZS3604, paragraph 8.3.1.2. For use outside NZS3604 type structures, specific engineering design will be required.

Building code statement of compliance 

Prolam laminated structural timber installed in accordance with the Prolam installation requirements will comply with the following performance clauses of the New Zealand building code.

  • Structure B1/AS1:
  • meets the requirements of B1.3.1 B1.3.2 B1.3.3 (a, b, f, j, m, q) B1.3.4 (a, b, c, d, e); AS1170:2002 for engineering span tables, AS/NZS 1328:1998 and AS5068 for building elements.
  • Durability B2/AS1:
  • meets the requirements of B2.3.1(a) B2.3.2. And can be used in service class 3 situations, provided H3.2 treatment or higher is used. All timber is treated in accordance with NZS3640. Prolam treats its own timber and is third-party audited to ensure compliance with the New Zealand treatment standard. Correct treatments must be used in the right places.
  • Hazardous Building Materials F2/AS1:
  • meets the requirements of F2.3.1. Timber treatment suppliers meet NZS3640, which includes flash-off requirements.

NZBC Designed to Comply

B1
Structure

B2 
Durability

B4
Hazardous Building Materials

Features & Benefits

quality Product Quality

Prolam glulam manufactured in accordance with AS/NZS 1328 Glue Laminated Structural Timber standard.

renewable Renewable Resource

Made from renewable New Zealand plantation timber, Prolam PLX Column uses approximately 14 times less energy to produce compared to equivalent steel bracing.

Frequently asked questions

Lead times for Prolam engineered timber products vary depending on the product type and current manufacturing schedules.

For the most up-to-date information, refer to the lead times page on the Prolam website.
For urgent orders, contact the Prolam team directly. 

It is important to only use fixings for Prolam glulam timber that have been specified by the engineer's specification or PS1. Ensure galvanised or stainless options are selected depending on indoor/outdoor use and timber treatment. Don't fasten too close to edges or ends.

Common suppliers we recommend are MiTek, Pryda, Simpson Strong-Tie or SPAX.

View our fixing details here.

Case Studies

Pinnacle Long Bay Retirement Village

Long Bay, Auckland Region

Why Choose Prolam

Engineered Structural Timber Solutions

Specify with certainty


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