Steel Beams & RSJs

Whether you need a single RSJ for a knock-through or a full set of beams and columns for a new structure, we fabricate and supply steel beams to exact specification. Universal beams (UB), universal columns (UC) and rolled steel joists are cut, drilled and prepared in our Peterlee workshop.

Beam types

• Universal beams (UB) — the most common beam for spanning openings and carrying floors. Deeper than they are wide, which makes them efficient in bending.
• Universal columns (UC) — near-square sections used as posts and columns, and as beams where depth is limited.
• RSJs — the traditional name for a rolled steel joist. Many people say RSJ for any steel beam. Our RSJ vs universal beam guide explains the difference.
• Parallel flange channels (PFC) — C-shaped sections, often used in pairs or on the edge of an opening.
• Box sections and flitch plates — for posts, special details, or strengthening timber.

Beams can also be cranked to follow a roof pitch or joined for long spans. See what is a cranked beam.

What size beam do you need?

The size is set by the span, the load it carries and the space you have. A structural engineer calculates it, and building control checks the calculations. Our guide to what size steel beam you need explains how that works, and do I need a structural engineer covers when you need one.

We can take your engineer's drawings or arrange the load calculations and connection design for you, so the beam you receive is right for the span and load - and ready to install. Padstones, cleats, end plates and fixings can all be supplied with the steel.

What we do to the steel

• Cut to length, with notched or coped ends where beams meet.
• Drilled for bolts, timber packers and fixings.
• Bolted joints so long beams can be carried into a house in pieces and joined in place.
• End plates, cleats and base plates welded on for connections.
• Marked so each piece goes in the right place. See steel beam marking explained.
• Primed, painted or galvanised to suit where the beam will be.

Supply only, or supply and fit

Choose supply-only for your own contractor, or our supply-and-install service where our team handles delivery and fitting on site. All fabrication is carried out to UKAS-approved EN1090-1 Execution Level 3.

Beams sit on padstones that spread the load into the wall below. Inside a house, the steel normally also needs fire protection, usually fire-rated plasterboard or intumescent paint, which building control will check.

Common jobs

• Knock-throughs between kitchens and dining rooms, using goalpost frames where a wall can't carry the load.
• Removing a chimney breast.
• Rear and side extensions, and loft conversions.
• Shop fronts, commercial alterations and new buildings.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a steel beam cost? It depends on the size, length and work involved. Our steel beam cost guide explains what affects the price.

How long does it take? See how long a steel beam takes to make and fit. Most of the time usually goes on calculations and approval.

Do I need building regulations approval? Almost always, when a beam carries a structural load. See do I need building regs for a steel beam.

Can you deliver to site? Yes, across the North East and beyond. Send us your calculations for a quote.