Steel I Beams

What are Steel I Beams?Steel I-beams are just that – steel beams that come in a variety of sizes and shapes. A steel I- beam is a joist or girder made from steel. I-beams are used as major support trusses in building, to ensure that a structure will be sound. Steel is one of the most common materials used to make I-beams but other things can be used such as aluminum. The beams are placed against the wall, then held in place by wood framing that attaches to the joists at the top, and either a bolt at the bottom that is driven into the floor, or the floor is opened and the beam is attached to the footer. If you look at the shape of the beam is resembles the letter “I”, thus it’s name – I-Beam.

Steel I Beam Solutions

Steel I beams problems arise when too much load is place on the beam. Once the beam begins to bend, stress is put on the bottom of the beam, causing it to stretch and lose strength. This bending is caused by overloading the beam. They must be attached to the structure properly to compensate for the weight of the load.

What Are The Different Uses and Applications For Steel I Beams

If you notice bowing or leaning walls in your basement, this can be cause for concern. Foundation settlement can be the cause of these bowing or leaning walls. The I-beam is one solution Champion uses to strengthen these walls. If you see signs of bowing or leaning walls, the sooner its looked at by a professional, the better. Champion will inspect your foundation and give you the best solution to your foundation settlement problems.

Water pressure is one of the most common causes for bowing walls. In a cold climate, moisture freezes when it gets cold and expands. If there is enough water in the ground that freezing puts pressure on the wall, causing it to crack or bow. Other reasons for bowing walls is improper drainage, lack of waterproofing, tree roots and aging of the structure.

A bowed wall will get worse over time or deteriorate quicker since the wall is bowed and has lost its integrity and resistance. A wall that is bowed has existing cracks and defects below the surface. Installing i-beams will get your walls back into place and prevent further bowing or cracking.

How are I Beams Installed?

To install I-beams, the floor along the foundation walls are jackhammered where the beams will be placed.The beams are then installed and bolted to a wooden floor joist above. The pressure bearing against the wall is transferred to the wood floor joist.

Also, since the beams are rigid, they will only touch the wall at one point – where the foundation wall is bowed the most. If installed correctly, they will add back pressure to the wall, discouraging it from moving any further. One great reason to use a steel I beam is it is much less likely to warp and bend as other materials used such as wood.

Your home is a huge investment. Don’t take any chances when it comes to its value! Steel I beams will stabilize your walls and prevent further damage or cracks from happening. In order to keep your home in top condition, take the precautions necessary to keep your home safe. We have different options for your unique situation.