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: What’s the difference between a lintel and a beam?

• <div><p>The difference between a lintel and a beam is what loads each is responsible for supporting. A lintel is a type of beam that is responsible only for supporting the load above an opening, such as a window or door, and transfers the weight to the side walls around an opening. A beam supports the slab and transfers the load to nearby columns, which then disperse the load to the ground.</p></div>

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: 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: 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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Verified Reviews for Welding pros in Mart, TX

*The Angi rating for Welding companies in Mart, 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 Mart, 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 December 02, 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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