Is LVL more affordable than steel I-beams?

• <div><p>Yes, an LVL beam is more affordable than the <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-steel-i-beam-cost.htm">cost of a steel I-beam</a>, totaling between $50 and $200 per linear foot as opposed to the $100 to $400 per linear foot you’d pay for a steel I-beam. Not only is the wood material more affordable than steel, but it’s also more similar to traditional wooden beams and doesn’t require as much retrofitting to connect joists. </p></div>

Is a wood or steel beam better in a home?

• <div><p>A steel beam is stronger than a wood beam and requires fewer vertical supports underneath, which means it’s a better option for larger structures or if you want an open space under your home that doesn’t have posts as obstructions. However, <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-steel-i-beam-cost.htm">steel I-beams cost</a> more than wood ones, and they can be difficult to install retroactively, as getting them into the basement area can be challenging, if not impossible.</p></div>

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Q: Do I need an LVL beam?

• <div><p>Beams made out of traditional lumber can often only span 8 to 12 feet without requiring vertical supports, so if you want a wider opening to create a more open floor plan, you might need an LVL beam. LVL beams can span up to around 30 feet without the need for load-bearing walls or vertical supports underneath, making them a better option for keeping your home as open and airy as possible. </p></div>

Q: Does steel framing increase home value?

• <div><p>Using a steel frame may raise the value of your home. Steel is more heat resistant, has better longevity, and doesn&rsquo;t need any upkeep compared to traditional wood. You can also customize a steel build a little easier than other materials like brick, concrete, and vinyl&mdash;which have trouble bending and adapting to renovations.</p></div>

Q: Are beams and joists the same?

• <div><p>No, beams are the primary load-bearers for flooring or roofing systems, and they distribute the weight of the structure to your foundational supports, while joists bear far less weight and distribute their loads to the beams. Beams are usually thicker and longer, and they have support posts or foundation walls beneath them for support.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Welding pros in Pittsfield, NY

*The Angi rating for Welding companies in Pittsfield, NY is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Welding needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Welding companies in Pittsfield, NY is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Welding needs.

Last update on December 15, 2025

Reviewed in March 2025
Rich and his team have done several restorations. First and foremost he put in a new bathroom upstairs, from the plumbing to all the fixtures, insulation wiring everything that is required and a job well done! They also re-wired the house for a 200amp service from pole to house then took on...
Longtail Contracting, LLC
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Reviewed in April 2024
You couldnt find a better tree service. They went above and beyond in removing my trees and were very meticulous in cleaning up everything. I also recommend them to two of my friends and they did an excellent job there too. They did all of this at very reasonable prices .
Backwoods Tree Service
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Reviewed in November 2023
Brendon was professional and helpful in cleaning up our yard this fall when we were unexpectedly not able to do it ourselves. He gave us a fair price and completed the job in a timely manner. Highly recommend using Frank's Tree Service.
Franks Tree Service
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Reviewed in October 2023
I highly recommend Alludi Associates! Alex and his team were professional, communicative, and did an excellent job painting my house. I had various projects in need of attention and Alex addressed them all promptly and honestly. He was willing to help with any project, big or small, and answered...
Alludi Associates
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Reviewed in February 2023
Ken and his crew were hired to refinish and add trim to our 100-year-old floor. Ken was helpful in explaining our options as we were contemplating replacing, but he assured us we would like the finished product and the trim would look original and he met our expectations and some. He was on...
AJ Floor Service
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Reviewed in December 2022
This is a phenomenal company. They are expert, experienced, & demonstrate integrity. Wonderful people. The project was completed in a timely manner and clean up was thorough. The quality of their work is top notch. I could not be more happy with the outcome.
Drywall Inc
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Reviewed in August 2022
Was waiting to see if the ground beetles (in the 1,000's) would finally disappear. Dread going down the basement as they come every year. I am praying this is the last time I will see them. Did not reply to you until I thought I could give you the most honest answer. They are very efficient...
Meerkat Pest Control, LLC
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Reviewed in March 2022
Came quickly..did everything they promised.
Dunbar Pest Control
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Reviewed in October 2021
Justin is a perfectionist, his craftmanship was apparent as my fence was not a run of the mill installation. He communicated very well along the way and I highly recommend him, he has integrity and his engineering background did come in handy during the project. He left the job site spotless.
JJ Michaels Construction Services
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Reviewed in May 2021
This team was fast and reliable! Received reasonable quote in the morning, job scheduled for the afternoon! Tree trimming of large maple and multiple tall pine trees. The site was cleaned up better than it was before. Highly recommend them for your job. Thanks for the service. Ernie &...
JG Lawn & Snow
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