When Is the Right Time to Order Steel Beams for Your Building Project?

Whether you’re planning a home extension, a loft conversion, or a commercial building project, steel beams play a critical role in the structure of a building. Ordering them at the right time is essential to avoid delays, unnecessary costs and disruption on site.

This guide explains when steel beams should be ordered, what needs to be in place beforehand, and how both homeowners and commercial project teams can plan effectively.

Why Steel Beams Are So Important

Steel beams (often referred to as RSJs in domestic projects) are used to:

• Support load-bearing walls

• Create open-plan spaces

• Carry floor and roof loads

• Strengthen structures during alterations

Because steel beams are structural elements, they are usually custom specified and fabricated to order, meaning timing is crucial.

Ordering too early can lead to incorrect specifications. Ordering too late can halt the entire project.

What Must Be Done Before Ordering Steel Beams

1. Structural Engineer’s Calculations

Before any steel can be ordered, a structural engineer must complete calculations. These confirm:

• Beam size and type

• Load requirements

• Bearing details and connections

This applies to both domestic and commercial projects.

2. Finalised Drawings

Architectural drawings should be confirmed before ordering steel. Late design changes can affect beam sizes, positions or quantities.

3. Planning Permission and Building Control

Most projects involving steel beams require building control approval. In commercial projects, this may also involve coordination with project managers and principal contractors.

When Is the Right Time to Order Steel Beams?

The Ideal Time

Steel beams should be ordered:

• Once structural calculations are approved

• Once drawings are finalised

• Several weeks before installation is required

This allows time for fabrication, delivery planning and coordination with site works.

Typical Lead Times

While this varies, typical lead times are:

• Standard beams: 1–2 weeks

• Beams requiring fabrication (plates, holes, welds): 2–4 weeks

• Large commercial projects: project-specific timelines

Always confirm lead times early to avoid programme clashes.

Domestic vs Commercial Considerations

For Homeowners

Homeowners often encounter steel beams during:

• Extensions

• Loft conversions

• Removing load-bearing walls

Early coordination between the engineer, builder and building control helps prevent delays and unexpected costs.

For Commercial Projects

Commercial projects often involve:

• Multiple beams

• Complex connections

• Crane lifts and restricted access

Steel beams frequently sit on the critical path, meaning delays can impact multiple trades and the overall programme.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ordering steel before calculations are final

• Leaving steel orders too late

• Not planning delivery and access

• Failing to coordinate inspections

• Underestimating fabrication lead times

Good planning avoids costly rework and downtime.

Preparing for Steel Beam Installation

Before beams arrive on site:

• Ensure access is clear and suitable

• Lifting equipment is arranged

• Temporary supports are planned

• The site is ready for immediate installation

Building control will usually need to inspect the steel before it is covered.

Frequently Asked Questions About Steel Beams

Do I need a steel beam in my project?

If you are removing a load-bearing wall, extending a building or altering the structure, a steel beam is usually required. A structural engineer will confirm this.

What is an RSJ?

RSJ stands for Rolled Steel Joist. It’s a common term used to describe structural steel beams, particularly in domestic projects.

Can steel beams be ordered before approval?

It’s best to wait until structural calculations are complete and accepted. Ordering too early risks incorrect sizing or costly changes.

How long does it take to get steel beams made?

• Standard beams: 1–2 weeks

• Fabricated beams: 2–4 weeks

Complex commercial projects may require longer lead times.

Who installs steel beams?

Steel beams should be installed by competent builders or specialist contractors, often using lifting equipment. Building control inspections are usually required.

Do steel beams need fire protection?

Yes. In most cases, steel beams must be fire protected (for example, boxed in with fire-rated materials) to meet building regulations.

How much do steel beams cost?

Costs vary depending on:

• Size and weight

• Fabrication requirements

• Delivery and installation

Domestic beams may start from a few hundred pounds, excluding installation.

What happens if steel beams are ordered late?

Late ordering can delay:

• Structural works

• Inspections

• Follow-on trades

This often increases overall project costs.

Final Thoughts

The right time to order steel beams is after designs and approvals are complete, but well before they are needed on site. Early planning keeps projects on schedule, controls costs and avoids unnecessary stress—whether you’re a homeowner or managing a large commercial build.

If you’re unsure about timing, specifications or coordination, seeking professional advice early can make all the difference.

SERV Contracts LTD
Address: Unit 49, The Elms Industrial Estate, Cranfield Park Road, Wickford, Essex, SS12 9EP, United Kingdom
Phone: 01268 975006
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.servcontracts.co.uk