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: 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: 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>

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>

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Verified Reviews for Welding pros in Rochester, WI

*The Angi rating for Welding companies in Rochester, WI 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 Rochester, WI 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 11, 2025

Reviewed in September 2023
Metal Smoke Design did a great job on my welding repair. I scheduled a visit to discuss, and ended up getting the repair completed immediately. Dan was knowledgeable, helpful, and very competent. The cost was reasonable, and his work quality was excellent. I would highly recommend him and his...
Metal Smoke Design
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Reviewed in June 2023
He completed his task in a timely and organized fashion. Did not have any issues afterward and my project was completed exactly how I wanted it to. I would hire him again in a heartbeat for my next welding project when it comes up. Overall great service great price and no complaints whatsoever!!!
Stuesser Welding
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Reviewed in February 2015
They were very responsive to my initial call. Tom came out the next day and was friendly and knowledgable. Walked me through the various install options in terms of where the unit could be physically placed. Agreed on unit and price. The next day the installer came out to the house and installed...
Hanson Soft Water Inc
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Reviewed in May 2010
The compressor was removed from my cube van and completely re-welded using a steel plate that was twice as thick as the original plate. All of the welds were first rate and the guys doing the work were very skilled and knew exactly what to do to repair my compressor. It even makes more air now...
Tom's Welding Inc
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Reviewed in October 2008
I purchased this truck new from Andrew and had it serviced there since purchase. Last year the truck's axle began to leak. After exhaustive testing Andrew determined that there was a leak in the axle housing underneath a welded-on bracket. It was very difficult to spot and the leak wouldn't...
Andrew Toyota Scion
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Handyman for Multiple Small Project Service

Faucets, Fixtures and Pipes Repair or Replace

Wood Fence Installation

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Weld tech mobile welding

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AB Metal Fabrication LLC

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