Design Considerations
Residential Framing Options
Residential structural projects can often be designed in several different ways. The appropriate solution depends on factors such as the span, supported loads, available headroom, existing framing, foundation conditions, cost, constructability, and contractor preferences.
A structural engineer can evaluate these factors and help identify a framing solution that is safe, practical, and appropriate for the project.
Steel Beams
Steel beams can provide substantial strength while occupying relatively little depth. They may be useful when a project requires a long span, limited beam depth, or support for significant loads.
Steel beams can sometimes reduce the need for intermediate posts. However, they may require specialized connections, bearing plates, posts, fire protection, or modifications to the surrounding framing. The beam weight and the loads transferred to each end must also be considered during design.
Wood and Engineered-Wood Beams
Solid-sawn lumber and engineered-wood products, such as laminated veneer lumber and glued-laminated timber, are commonly used in residential construction. These materials can often be integrated into conventional wood framing and may be practical for wall removals, openings, additions, and other structural modifications.
Engineered-wood beams are available in a variety of sizes and capacities. The appropriate beam depends on the span, loading, available space, deflection limits, connection requirements, and bearing conditions. Multiple members may also be required to work together as a built-up beam.
Posts and Columns
Posts and columns transfer loads from beams, walls, or other structural elements down to the foundation. They may be used when a beam requires intermediate support or when a concentrated load must be carried through the structure.
The location of a post is an important part of the design. A post may need to align with a beam, wall, footing, pier, foundation wall, or other adequate supporting element below. New or relocated posts may require additional foundation work if the existing structure cannot safely support the transferred load.
Bearing Walls
A bearing wall supports the weight of the structure above, such as roof framing, floor framing, beams, or additional stories. Some bearing walls are located near the center of a home, while others may be exterior walls or walls that align with supports at other levels.
Removing or modifying a bearing wall requires an evaluation of the loads being supported and the development of an appropriate replacement support system. Depending on the project, the solution may include a beam, posts, columns, a partial-height wall, or another structural arrangement.
Headers and Openings
Headers are structural members installed over openings in walls, such as doors, windows, or pass-throughs. They transfer loads around the opening and into the remaining wall framing.
The required header size and support depend on the opening width, the loads above, the framing configuration, and the available bearing at each end. Larger openings may also require posts, columns, or additional foundation support.
Foundation and Bearing Support
Every framing system ultimately transfers loads to the foundation or supporting soil. Beam ends, posts, columns, and bearing walls must have adequate support below them.
When a new concentrated load is introduced, the existing footing, foundation wall, slab, pier, or other supporting element may need to be evaluated. In some cases, additional footings or other foundation improvements may be necessary.
Choosing the Appropriate Solution
There is not always one correct framing option for a residential project. A steel beam may minimize beam depth, while an engineered-wood beam may integrate more easily with existing wood framing. A bearing wall or post may be more economical in one location but less desirable in another.
The final design should consider structural performance, available space, appearance, constructability, cost, and applicable building-code requirements. A project-specific evaluation is necessary to determine which framing option is appropriate.
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