Kerto-Ripa elements

What is Kerto-Ripa?

Kerto-Ripa is composed of full-span slabs (Kerto LVL Q-panels) and ribs (Kerto LVL S-beams), bonded together with PU glue to achieve full composite behavior. The slabs and ribs are oriented in the span direction, with the cross-grain veneers of the slab distributing loads over the ribs. This combination results in a high-performance product that provides excellent comfort for the end-user.

Benefits of using Kerto-Ripa:

Kerto-Ripa is an all-in-one solution which offers the right benefits for an optimal construction. Wood construction also offers numerous advantages, such as

Flexibility 

• Kerto-Ripa can be used in both wooden and hybrid constructions, as it easily connects to wood, masonry, concrete or steel structures. 

• Large openings in beams (H/70%) can easily be made. 

• Possibility to integrate various installations inside the Kerto-Ripa structure 

Technical 

• Fire resistance up to 90 minutes. 

• Structural gluing results in a stiffness far superior to any nailed or screwed solution.   
• Kerto-Ripa elements function as part of the buildings stabilizing structure. 

Building time 

• Fast and easy assembly due to the prefab construction and big sizes (up to 24 x 1,8m or 20 x 2,5m)  

• Prefabrication ensures uniform quality and a reduction in defect costs. 

• With roof elements, a quick covering of large areas keeps the building area below clean and dry. 

Light in weight 

• Kerto-Ripa elements are at least 5 to 10 times lighter than concrete hollow-core slabs. 

• Consequently lighter load-bearing frames and foundations are needed. 

• Lighter and cheaper building equipment, such as electric cranes, can be used. 

Saving space 

• Floors and roofs: top-slab support. 

• Walls: thinner structure due to integration of the installations and insulation within element. 

• More m² inner space = larger sellable areas. 

Gluing for efficiency 

A unique gluing technology developed by Metsä over the past 25 years underpins the performance of the structural gluing. The additional stiffness and strength provided by this structural gluing enable Kerto LVL to support great spans and heavy loads with reduced element depths and raw material consumption. This bonding results in a stiffness far superior to any nailed or screwed solution. 

Both slabs and ribs are of full length, allowing elements to span up to 24 meters for roofs and 10 meters for floors. 

Route to market 

Many dedicated and experienced Metsä Wood partners across Europe are certified to produce CE-marked Kerto-Ripa solutions for your project. All elements are manufactured under controlled conditions.