top of page
Beam Designs logo

Latest News

Welcome to the Beam Designs news hub- your source for the latest developments in structural engineering, construction and technical insights.

Follow Beam Designs progress on domestic, residential and commercial projects across London, and throughout the UK.

Latest News

Featured Article

Discover the latest news, resources and insights from Beam Designs.

Steel or Timber? Choosing the Right Beam for Your Extension

  • Writer: Beam Designs
    Beam Designs
  • May 28
  • 2 min read

steel beam

When you're planning a home extension, one of the most important decisions is hidden in the structure: what type of beam will support your new space? While most people assume steel is the only option, that’s not always the case. Depending on the project, timber beams can be a viable – and cost-effective – alternative.


At Beam Designs, we help homeowners across the UK, especially in London and Manchester, understand their structural beam options through clear, compliant extension beam calculations.


When Steel Beams Make Sense

Steel beams (often RSJs or I-beams) are commonly used to support large openings in rear or side extensions. They're strong, compact, and ideal when head height is limited - a common issue in urban homes. If you’re removing a load-bearing wall or spanning a wide area, steel usually wins on strength-to-size ratio. It also performs better in damp or exposed environments.


When Timber Beams Can Work

In single-storey extensions with modest spans and loads, timber beams can be used safely and legally - provided the design complies with Building Regulations. Glulam (glued laminated timber) beams are especially strong and can look great left exposed in open-plan kitchens. They’re lighter and easier to work with than steel, making them a smart choice in tight-access properties.


How Structural Calculations Help You Decide

There’s no guesswork here. A structural engineer runs calculations based on span, load, and support conditions to recommend the best material and beam size for your project. Overdesigning leads to unnecessary costs. Underspecifying? That’s a safety risk. Our job is to get it just right.


Need calculations for your extension? We offer clear, affordable design packages tailored to your home – whether you're building in Birmingham or removing a timber beam load-bearing wall in East London.


Join the countless satisfied clients who have entrusted Beam Designs with their structural engineering needs.


Get started on your project today

Beam Designs offers structural calculations suitable for Part A Building Regulation Submission from £85. Click 'get started' today to find out more.




Comments


Commenting on this post isn't available anymore. Contact the site owner for more info.

Get Started with your Construction Project

Join the countless satisfied clients who have entrusted Beam Designs with their structural calculations.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Who are Beam Designs?
    Beam Designs is a low-cost, online structural calculations service. We are backed by structural engineers, supporting clients' projects across the UK. Our structural calculations are suitable for building control.
  • How do I start using Beam Designs services?
    To start using Beam Designs services, simply use our contact form to upload your project details. Alternatively, you can email our team at info@beam-designs.co.uk
  • How much does Beam Designs service cost?
    Beam Designs provides cost-effective structural calculations suitable for Building Regulation Submission. Prices start from £95.
  • How can I contact your team?
    Beam Designs is a web-based, online service. To contact a member of our team, please use the website contact form. Alternatively, email info@beam-designs.co.uk and we will get back to you as quickly as possible.
  • How is your structural calculations service low cost?
    We are a web-based, online service. This allows us to keep our costs low and means that we can deliver a cost-effective service for our clients.
bottom of page