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 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>

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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>

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>

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Verified Reviews for Welding pros in Lacy Lakeview, TX

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

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Welding companies in Lacy Lakeview, TX is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Welding needs.

Last update on November 16, 2025

Reviewed in October 2024
Custom entry way and gate put in by Mikeska welding. Constantly having random people stop by asking who did the work and wanting contact info. Fairly priced and quick turn around time on project. 10/10 would recommend for any welding or metal work.
Mikeska Welding Co., LLC
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Reviewed in December 2022
I wanted a pasture fenced. I should have been suspicious when he gave a quote without even measuring its length and wanted most of the money up front. He put two holes in my shop with his tractor and would not repair them. The posts are only about 14” deep. They are falling over. The welds...
Diamond J Welding and Fence
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Reviewed in February 2018
I am extremely pleased with the metal fence that A1 Fence & Welding put up around my property. The job was done in a timely manor with the utmost of professionalism. A great looking fence at a reasonable price. I would highly recommend this company.
A 1 Fence & Welding
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Reviewed in August 2013
Once we decided on a plan, signed the contract, work began. In less than 3 days, a welder repaired/replaced I-beams, replaced part of the metal roof, reattached the majority of the metal with new screws, and hauled off all the damaged materials. We called back after a rain, they came out that...
Ja-Mar Roofing & Sheet Metal
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Reviewed in June 2013
I've gone to Rudy for over 20 years and taken 3-4 of my cars. He's an artist! Most shops have expensive custom bent pipes. He has a stock of generic pipes and a bending machine. He bends them like an artist, quick and accurate. He uses a torch and welder with ease. This saves on expensive parts....
OPTION MUFFLER
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Reviewed in May 2012
It is a local company. They respond fast. Every time I use them, they come the same day I call. They always fix everything to my satisfaction. We had a problem with the air conditioning unit and it had to be cleaned. They had to remove it from inside the house, take it outside and clean...
Centroplex Service Co. Inc
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