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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, steel I-beams cost 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.

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.

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.

Steel I-beams are an increasingly popular choice for supporting a structure because they support a large amount of weight with a small profile and without the need for load-bearing walls or supports underneath. This allows for more open floor plans, which most people tend to prefer. They also resist fire, pests, and rot and last for the lifetime of your home.