Wood beams are a decorative feature in many older properties, and an aesthetic choice in some newer properties too, but they must be strong enough to support the roof or ceiling above them.
Ultimately, a beam in any material is a structural feature, not a decorative one, and if a wood beam is showing signs of sagging or other damage such as rot and woodworm, it may be time to replace it with a new steel beam instead.
This is especially true of very old wood beams, which may have been installed over excessive spans of 15-20 feet or more, without the appropriate consideration of the forces exerted on the centre of the beam.
Steel beams are an excellent alternative. They are strong, constructed in an H cross-section to distribute the forces more effectively, and they can span large lengths without any concerns about sagging even over the long term.
How to replace wood beams with steel
If you are not confident installing a steel beam or steel column in place of an old wood beam, call in the experts and make sure you get it done properly, to avoid any repeat problems of sagging roofs or ceilings in the years to come.
Generally speaking, the process itself is not very complex. The roof structure must be propped up independently of the beam, and the old wood beam removed. Depending on its condition, it may be used for decorative purposes elsewhere, or recycled.
Steel beams will need suitable support under their ends, and can then be lifted into place and secured, often by bolting them to the surrounding masonry or timbers.
Finally, the props can be removed to leave the ceiling or roof structure resting solely on the steel beam, which should be more than capable of holding the weight and dissipating the forces without any undue stress on the supporting walls.
How to hide steel beams
If you don’t want your steel beam to be visible, there are several options open to you.
In some cases, a steel beam can be installed flush with the ceiling, by cutting a recess and hiding the beam above the ceiling boards, rather than descending from them.
Where this is not possible, beams can be boxed in with plasterboard, or you can achieve some striking effects by painting the steel with an appropriate metal paint.
Last but not least, you could consider cladding the beam with thin timber or wood laminate, which can create a very convincing faux wood beam effect that can be stained for an antique appearance with all the strength of steel.
For more information on our steel products, please don’t hesitate to get in touch here.
