Structural terms

Beam

A beam is a structural member that spans between supports and carries loads from a floor, roof, wall or other part of a building.

A beam transfers a load across a space to columns, walls or other supports. It can be made from timber, steel, concrete or another engineered material. Steel beam names the material; beam is the broader structural term.

During an Edinburgh renovation, beams may be used above new openings or to support altered floors and extensions. Their size and position depend on the loads, span and available bearing, rather than appearance alone.

In an older property, the intended supports and the structure beneath them deserve the same attention as the beam itself. Concealed previous alterations can change how a floor or wall actually carries weight.

Property types

Commonly found in

Tenement Georgian Townhouse Victorian Villa Terraced House Traditional Cottage Georgian Flat Converted Flat Detached House Semi-detached House

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Structural Alterations

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