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: 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: 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>

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>

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Handyman for Multiple Small Project Service

Faucets, Fixtures and Pipes Repair or Replace

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Joe Sczypta

Joe Sczypta

RichterweldingLLC

RichterweldingLLC

EMI SERVICES

EMI SERVICES

KB Equipment Repair

KB Equipment Repair

C&W welding

C&W welding

Jeff's Excavating

Jeff's Excavating

kieffer construction

kieffer construction

Progressive Industries Inc.

Progressive Industries Inc.

Tig Artistics, LLC

Tig Artistics, LLC

Grille Technologies LLC

Grille Technologies LLC

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