Beam
A large horizontal structural member that supports loads above it and transfers them to vertical posts or columns, made from solid timber, engineered wood, or steel.
In-Depth Explanation
Beams are critical structural elements in both residential and commercial construction, carrying floor loads, roof loads, and sometimes the accumulated weight of multiple stories. Solid wood beams are typically hewn or sawn from large timbers in species like Douglas fir, oak, or southern yellow pine. For longer spans or heavier loads, engineered alternatives like glulam, LVL, and PSL provide greater strength and consistency. Beam sizing is determined by engineering calculations that account for span, tributary load area, deflection limits, and building code requirements. Exposed decorative beams have become a popular architectural feature with both structural and purely cosmetic options available.
Usage Example
The architect specified a 5-1/4 by 16-1/2 inch glulam beam to span the 22-foot living room opening without intermediate posts.