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>

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>

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Q: Do welders need to be licensed or certified?

• <div><p>Some states require welders to be licensed and certified, while others don&rsquo;t. However, it&rsquo;s always a good idea to hire a licensed welder, regardless of requirements in your area, especially if you need welding for structural components of your home or gas lines. Licensed welders have gone through training and testing to prove their skills, so they&rsquo;re less likely to make a mistake that could be detrimental to your home. Use Angi&rsquo;s <a href="https://www.angi.com/angi-license-check.htm">state licensing tool</a> to determine whether your potential hire has a welding license.</p></div>

Q: How long does metal fabrication take?

• <div><p>Most projects take 1-4 weeks, depending on material sourcing, design intricacy, and required finishing treatments like powder coating or galvanization.</p></div>

Q: Why should I pick steel I-beams?

• <div><p>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.</p></div>

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Handyman for Multiple Small Project Service

Faucets, Fixtures and Pipes Repair or Replace

Wood Fence Installation

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WeldFour

WeldFour

McPherson Mechanical & Fabrication

McPherson Mechanical & Fabrication

EMI SERVICES

EMI SERVICES

MTS mobile welding

MTS mobile welding

412 Welding and Fabrications

412 Welding and Fabrications

Maverick Construction Services

Maverick Construction Services

Monaco Metalworks

Monaco Metalworks

JM welding

JM welding

Armstrong Industrial LLC

Armstrong Industrial LLC

Direct Machines

Direct Machines

The Penn Hills, PA homeowners’ guide to welding services

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