Architecturally, steel beams are one of the top structural support systems, able to withstand heavy loads without taking up excess space. They have infinite applications in construction in homes, warehouses, commercial buildings, civil engineering and more.

Steel beams are incredibly useful in remodelling, especially for replacing a load-bearing or structural wall. Ottawa Structural Demolition installs steel beams often, and we’d like to explain them so you can make an informed decision about their applications.

 

Beam Types Available

Beams aren’t only made from steel. Other types you might have seen are: reinforced concrete, timber, and composite. Each has its benefits and best-use scenarios.

 

What Are I-Beams?

I-beams, also known as H-beams or universal beams, are structural steel beams with an “I” or “H” shape. These beams are widely used in construction and engineering projects due to their efficiency in supporting heavy loads and providing structural stability.

The cross-sectional shape of an I-beam resembles the capital letter “I,” featuring a vertical element, or the “web,” and horizontal elements, or “flanges.” The top and bottom flanges are typically wider than the web and contribute significantly to the beam’s load-bearing capacity.

The design of I-beams allows them to resist bending and shear forces, making them suitable for various applications in building frames, bridges, and other structural frameworks. The distribution of material in the flanges and web helps optimize the beam’s strength-to-weight ratio.

I-beams come in various sizes and specifications to accommodate different load requirements and structural designs. Their versatility and strength make them a popular choice in the construction industry for supporting vertical and horizontal loads across spans.

 

How Do Steel Beams Help When Removing A Wall?

Steel beams play a crucial role when removing a wall, especially if the wall being removed is load-bearing or structural. Here are several ways in which steel beams are helpful in this process:

 

Load-Bearing Support:

• Replacing Structural Integrity: Load-bearing walls carry the weight of the structure above them. When a load-bearing wall is removed, a steel beam is often installed to provide the necessary structural support. The steel beam takes on the load that was previously supported by the wall.

 

Spanning Openings:

• Creating Open Floor Plans: Steel beams are excellent for spanning large openings. When removing walls to create open floor plans, a steel beam is installed to bridge the gap, allowing for a spacious and unobstructed area.

 

Distributing Weight:

• Uniform Load Distribution: Steel beams distribute the weight of the structure more evenly, preventing concentrated loads that can lead to structural issues. This ensures that the load from the removed wall is adequately supported without causing stress points.

 

Providing Flexibility:

• Adapting to Design Changes: Steel beams offer flexibility in design, allowing architects and engineers to adapt to changes in the layout or design of a space. This flexibility is particularly useful when renovating or repurposing existing structures.

 

Ensuring Safety:

• Preventing Structural Damage: Installing steel beams ensures the safety and stability of the structure. Without proper support, removing a load-bearing wall can lead to structural damage, compromising the integrity of the building.

 

Temporary Support:

• Support During Construction: Steel beams are often used as temporary supports during the removal of a wall. Temporary shoring with steel beams provides stability while the wall is being taken down and the permanent support system is installed.

 

Solving Space Constraints:

• Maximizing Space: In cases where a wall is removed to create more space, steel beams allow for larger, uninterrupted spans, eliminating the need for intermediate support columns that could obstruct the desired space.

 

Facilitating Construction:

• Efficient Construction Process: Steel beams facilitate a more efficient construction process. They are durable, easy to work with, and can be fabricated to precise specifications, making them an ideal choice for structural modifications.

 

Meeting Building Codes:

• Code Compliance: The use of steel beams ensures compliance with building codes and regulations. Structural modifications, especially those involving load-bearing elements, must adhere to specific safety standards, and steel beams provide a reliable solution.

 

Steel Beam Installation Process For Wall Removal

The steel beam installation process for wall removal involves several steps to ensure structural integrity and safety. Here’s a detailed overview of the typical procedure:

Structural Assessment:

• Initial Evaluation: A structural engineer assesses your wall to determine whether it is load-bearing. Normally, a steel beam is only required for load-bearing walls.

Designing the Support System:

• Load Calculations: The engineer calculates the loads the steel beam must support. The beam must be strong enough to hold all the weight.

Choosing the Right Steel Beam:

• Beam Selection: Based on load calculations, the engineer selects the appropriate type, size, and strength of the steel beam for the specific application.

 

Preparing the Site:

• Temporary Shoring: If necessary, temporary supports (shoring) are installed to provide stability during the removal of the existing wall and the steel beam installation.

 

Wall Removal:

• Demolition: The existing wall is carefully and strategically removed, taking precautions to ensure the structure and occupant’s safety. This step is often done incrementally to maintain stability.

 

Installing the Steel Beam:

• Lifting and Placement: The selected steel beam is lifted into place using cranes or other equipment. It’s carefully positioned to span the opening left by the removed wall.

 

Attaching the Beam:

• Securing Connections: The steel beam is securely attached to the surrounding structure. Depending on the engineering design and specifications, this may involve welding, bolting, or other appropriate methods.

 

Adding Support Columns (if needed):

• Column Installation: Support columns may be added beneath the steel beam to further distribute the load. These columns are securely anchored to the foundation.

 

Temporary Support Removal:

• Removing Shoring: After the steel beam is properly secured, the temporary shoring is carefully removed.

 

Structural Inspection:

• Engineer’s Inspection: The engineer inspects the installed steel beam and the overall structure to ensure that everything meets design specifications and safety standards.

 

Finishing Work:

• Architectural Finishes: Any required finishes, such as drywall, trim, and paint, are applied to complete the aesthetic aspects of the modified space.

 

Final Inspection:

Building Inspection: A final inspection by local authorities ensures that the structural modifications comply with building codes and regulations.