Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost Per Foot Installed | $100 – $400 |
| Average Total Cost Installed | $1,200 – $4,200 |
| National Average Cost | $2,900 |
| Minimum Cost | $800 |
| Maximum Cost | $10,000 |
| Factors Influencing Cost | Beam type, length, installation complexity, delivery, permits, structural engineering |
When planning a construction or renovation project, the steel beam cost of installation is a critical consideration. Steel beams provide essential structural support, and their installation involves various factors that influence the overall expense. Understanding these costs will help you budget effectively and ensure your project runs smoothly.
Cost Per Foot Installed
Installing a steel beam typically costs between $100 and $400 per foot. This price range considers the complexity of installation and any additional services required.
Average Total Cost Installed
The total cost to install a steel beam usually ranges from $1,200 to $4,200 when considering the beam’s length, installation complexity, labor, delivery, and permits.
Steel I-Beam Cost
Steel I-beams are a popular choice due to their strength and versatility.
Support Beam Cost Installed
| Type | Per Foot Installed | Total Cost Installed |
|---|---|---|
| LVL Beam | $50 – $200 | $800 – $2,500 |
| Steel I-Beam | $100 – $400 | $1,200 – $4,200 |
| Steel I-Beam (Complex) | $500+ | $6,000 – $10,000 |
Steel I-Beam Material Prices Per Foot
| Size | Weight Per Foot (pounds) | Material Cost Per Foot |
|---|---|---|
| S3 x 5.7 | 5.7 | $6 – $8 |
| S4 x 7.7 | 7.7 | $7 – $12 |
| S6 x 12.5 | 12.5 | $12 – $18 |
Steel Beam Cost To Install
National Average Cost
| National | Cost |
|---|---|
| Average Cost | $2,900 |
| Minimum Cost | $800 |
| Maximum Cost | $10,000 |
| Average Range | $1,200 to $4,200 |
Steel Beam Cost of Installation Breakdown
| Item | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Steel I-Beam | $60 – $180 |
| Delivery | $80 – $400+ |
| Installation | $500 – $2,000 |
| Structural Engineer | $300 – $1,000 |
| Permits | $75 – $500 |
| Total Cost | $1,015 – $4,080 |
Steel Beam Cost Calculator
Steel Beam Cost Per Foot
| Type | Size | Weight Per Foot (pounds) | Cost Per Linear Foot |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-Beam | S3 x 5.7′ | 5.7 | $6 – $8 |
| I-Beam | S4 x 7.7′ | 7.7 | $7 – $12 |
| I-Beam | S6 x 12.5′ | 12.5 | $12 – $18 |
| H-Beam | W4 x 13′ | 13 | $11 – $16 |
| H-Beam | W6 x 12′ | 12 | $12 – $14 |
| H-Beam | W12 x 65′ | 65 | $24 – $80 |
Steel Support Beam Cost By Length
| Length | I-Beam Cost | H-Beam Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 8’ | $45 – $150 | $80 – $130 |
| 10’ | $60 – $180 | $110 – $160 |
| 16’ | $95 – $290 | $175 – $255 |
| 20’ | $120 – $360 | $220 – $320 |
| 24’ | $145 – $430 | $265 – $385 |
| 30’ | $180 – $540 | $330 – $480 |
| 40’ | $240 – $720 | $440 – $640 |
Structural Steel Cost by Weight
| Unit | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Per Lb. | $0.90 – $1.60 |
| Per Kg. | $2.00 – $3.40 |
| Per Ton | $1,800 – $3,100 |
Steel Beam Cost vs. Wood Vs. LVL Cost
| Material | Average Cost Per Linear Foot |
|---|---|
| Steel | $6 – $18 |
| LVL (Engineered) | $3 – $12 |
| Glulam (Engineered) | $6 – $34 |
| Wood – Softwood | $5 – $30 |
| Wood – Hardwood | $9 – $21 |
| Concrete | $7 – $16 |
Load-Bearing Support Beam Cost
Engineered Beam Cost
| Type | Cost Per Linear Foot |
|---|---|
| LVL | $3 – $12 |
| Glulam | $6 – $34 |
LVL Beams Cost
| Size (Inches) | Cost Per Linear Foot |
|---|---|
| 1.75 X 7.25-11.25 | $3 – $5 |
| 1.75 X 14-24 | $6 – $11 |
| 3.5+ | $10 – $12 |
Glulam Beam Cost
| Size (Inches) | Cost Per Linear Foot |
|---|---|
| 3 x 6-12 | $6 – $14 |
| 5 x 12-18 | $17 – $34 |
| 6.75 x 12 | $23 – $38 |
Wood Support Beams Cost
| Wood Type | Size (Inches) | Cost Per Linear Foot |
|---|---|---|
| Softwood | 6 x 6 | $5 – $30 |
| Softwood | 6 x 12 | $10 – $60 |
| Softwood | 12 x 12 | $20 – $90 |
| Hardwood | 4 x 2-19 | $9 – $18 |
| Hardwood | 6 x 6 | $9 – $21 |
| Hardwood | 6 x 12 | $19 – $33+ |
Cost of Reclaimed Wood Beams
Reclaimed wood beams can sometimes be more expensive than new beams due to their unique characteristics. Costs can vary widely based on the source and condition of the reclaimed wood.
Concrete Beam Prices
| Size (Inches) | Cost Per Linear Foot |
|---|---|
| 12 x 6 | $7 – $8 |
| 12 x 12 | $14 – $16 |
Steel Support Beams For Residential House Construction
Replacing Load-Bearing Wall With Steel Beam
Replacing a load-bearing wall with a steel beam can significantly increase the usable space in a home. The cost of this project depends on the beam size and the complexity of the installation.
Cost To Install A Recessed Load-Bearing Beam
Installing a recessed load-bearing beam involves additional labor for cutting into the existing structure and reinforcing it, usually costing more than surface-mounted installations.
Replacing Main Beam In House Cost
Replacing the main beam in a house can be a complex and costly task due to the structural importance of the beam. This project often requires the expertise of a structural engineer and a general contractor.
Replacing Support Beams In Basement Cost
Replacing support beams in a basement generally requires careful planning and execution to avoid compromising the structural integrity of the home.
Replacing Support Beam In Crawl Space Cost
Crawl space beam replacement can be challenging due to limited accessibility. Costs can vary depending on the beam material and the extent of the work required.
Cost To Expose Ceiling Beams
Exposing ceiling beams typically involves removing ceiling finishes and may require additional structural modifications to ensure that the beams are aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound.
Types Of Steel Support Beams
I-Beams / S-Beams
I-beams, also known as S-beams, are characterized by their I-shaped cross-section. They are commonly used in construction due to their high strength and efficiency.
Subtypes Of I-Beams
Different subtypes of I-beams are available, each suited for specific applications and load requirements.
H-Beams / W-Beams
H-beams, also known as W-beams, are similar to I-beams but have wider flanges, providing greater bearing capacity and stability.
Steel Beam FAQs
Where Can I Find Structural Beams For Sale?
Structural beams can be found at specialized building supply stores, steel fabricators, and online marketplaces. Consulting a structural engineer for specific recommendations is advisable.
How Much Does A Steel Beam Weigh?
The weight of a steel beam depends on its size and type. Generally, the weight is measured in pounds per foot, with specifications provided by manufacturers.
Hiring A Structural Engineer & General Contractor
Questions To Ask
When hiring a structural engineer or general contractor, consider asking the following questions:
- What is your experience with steel beam installations?
- Can you provide references for similar projects?
- What is the estimated timeline for the project?
- Are there any additional costs we should be aware of?
- How will you ensure the structural integrity of our home during the project?
