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>

Why should I pick steel for my new support beam?

• <div><p>You should pick steel for your new support beam for a few reasons. While steel is more expensive than other materials, such as laminated veneer lumber or glulam, it offers the following benefits:</p><ul><li><p>Fire-resistant</p></li><li><p>Unaffected by pests</p></li><li><p>Longer-lasting</p></li><li><p>Stronger against water damage (when galvanized against rust)</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

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Q: How much do different welding projects cost?

• <div><p>Some welding projects, such as <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/cost-to-repair-leaking-pipe.htm">repairing pipes</a> or fences, require travel, whereas others, like furniture repair, do not necessarily require the welder to come to you. Travel and overhead factor into the overall cost of your welding project. Some of the most common welding projects include:</p><ul><li><p>Metal furniture repair: $35&ndash;$100</p></li><li><p>Pipe repair: $200&ndash;$1,000</p></li><li><p>Small gates: $550&ndash;$750</p></li><li><p>Fencing: $1,200&ndash;$1,800</p></li><li><p>Fabricated sheet metal welding: $750&ndash;$2,500</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Q: Why are they called Lally columns?

• <div><p>Lally columns are named after their founder, John Lally, who owned a construction company in the 1800s. He invented the columns as a means of providing temporary support for beams and rafters in homes his company was renovating. The original Lally columns were also made of steel, although the inventory used a thicker gauge metal, which provided additional support for larger projects and long-term structural solutions.</p></div>

Q: What factors affect custom metalwork costs?

• <div><p>Costs depend on metal type, fabrication complexity, labor, finishing, and shipping or installation requirements.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Welding pros in Belle Vernon, PA

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

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Last update on December 13, 2025

Reviewed in June 2025
Prompt estimate and job completed when promised. Replaced bad sections of asphalt, filled cracks and seal coated driveway. Extremely courteous crew and great cleanup. I would definitely use them again.
ALBERT'S PAVING
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Reviewed in December 2024
Travis Kenny was professional and great to work with...they did outstanding work and very efficient
Planet Roof
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Reviewed in December 2024
Best company I ever worked with! Fast, efficient and friendly. My roof is beautiful
Planet Roof
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Reviewed in November 2024
Project manager Billy was very patient and helpful through the whole process.
Home Genius Exteriors
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Reviewed in August 2024
Inside French drain system was installed at a very reasonable price. The workers were respectful, efficient, and cleaned up well. Very satisfied and would hire them again.
Advanced Basement Solutions, Inc.
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Reviewed in June 2024
On time and very professional. Explained everything and got to work. Cleaned up afterwards and showed the before and after pictures.
Bactronix Corp
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Reviewed in January 2024
they were nice and knew what they was doing
West Shore Home Pittsburgh
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Reviewed in December 2022
They were prompt and very personable. They worked great together. They left our garage cleaner than when they started. Garage doors look great.
Baker Garage Door
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Reviewed in November 2022
Carlos came to our home soon after contacting us. He was very nice and professional. He explained how the whole process would work. Since we were a small job and they had other jobs in the area they were able to fit us in very quickly! The workers were very nice and worked quickly and...
Perfect Roofing & Siding
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Reviewed in June 2022
Hard worker very clean on time
Lenzi Electric, LLC
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