Builder Q&A: Cutting Holes In I-Joists & LVL Beams

I’ve been told I can’t cut holes in I-Joists and LVL beams and headers. Is that true or false?

Actually, that’s false. Usually, engineered I-Joists have prescored holes every foot or so that can easily be punched out to accommodate wiring, plumbing, cable, etc. Cutting holes in LVL
beams and headers is more restrictive though. Field-drilled holes can be used for small diameter access, but should not be used for load-bearing hardware attachments.