Structural terms

Steel Beam

A steel beam is a structural member used to carry loads across an opening or between supports. Its size, position and bearings are specified for the particular building.

A steel beam transfers weight from the structure above to suitable supports at either end. In Edinburgh renovations it may be specified when an opening is formed between rooms, an extension joins an existing house, or a floor layout changes.

Its visible span is only part of the design. An engineer considers the floors and walls above, the strength of the supports, deflection and how the beam will be installed. Bearings may require padstones or other strengthening. Fire protection and the treatment of the finished opening also need to be resolved in the design.

Traditional masonry and altered tenement flats can conceal earlier openings and unusual load paths. Confirm what the existing wall carries before ordering a beam or removing masonry. A steel beam is sometimes called an RSJ, although RSJ is a familiar general term rather than a complete specification.

Property types

Commonly found in

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

Building glossary

Related building terms

RSJ Structural Alteration Structural Opening

Johnstone Joinery & Building

Related services

Structural Alterations

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