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>

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: How much does it cost to hire a metal fabrication professional?

• <div><p>Professional metal fabricators usually charge around <b>$70 per hour</b>. Three of the largest cost factors are the size and complexity of the project and the price of materials. The type of metal can impact the cost as much as the intricacy of the metal fabrication you want done. Another cost factor is your geographic location, as labor and materials can vary widely depending on the cost of living where you live. </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: 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>

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Taggart welding & fabrication

Taggart welding & fabrication

Reynolds mobile welding services

Reynolds mobile welding services

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EMI SERVICES

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Elverson Fabrication

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On Q services

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Lenskiy services inc

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DONNELLY FABRICATION

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Kash fabrication

A & J Welders

A & J Welders

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Apollo Mobile Welding & Fabrication

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