How to Choose from Different Types of Load Bearing Support Beams

Understand the options—and what holds them in place

When renovating or constructing a home or commercial building, few decisions are as structurally important as selecting the right load bearing wall beam. These support beams for buildings play a critical role in transferring weight from the roof and upper floors down to the foundation. Whether you're removing a wall or building from the ground up, understanding your beam options is essential to maintaining the safety and integrity of the structure.

But while much attention is given to the beams themselves—be they steel, engineered wood, or LVL—the load bearing support beam is only part of the story. Equally important is what holds that beam in place: the beam pocket. Without a stable and correctly positioned seat for the beam to rest in, even the strongest beam cannot perform as designed.

Types of Load Bearing Support Beams

Before we talk about where the beam rests, let's look at some of the most common types of load bearing wall beams:

1. Steel I-Beams (W-Beams)

These are among the most popular for major structural spans due to their strength and durability. Steel beams are often used in basements and large open spaces.

2. Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) Beams

Engineered from multiple layers of wood veneer, LVL beams are strong, straight, and ideal for residential builds. They offer a great strength-to-weight ratio and are easier to work with than steel.

3. Glulam Beams

Glue-laminated timber beams provide aesthetic appeal and strength. Often used where the beam will remain visible, glulams are versatile and attractive.

4. Solid Wood Beams

Traditional and still used in certain types of construction, solid sawn lumber is the simplest type but not as stable or long-spanning as engineered alternatives.

Don't Overlook the Pocket

While most articles focus on the beam material and size, few address how those beams are secured at the connection point. This is where the beam pocket comes in. Beam pockets are embedded into concrete or masonry walls and provide the seat where the beam transfers its load.

At Golden Beam Pockets, we've developed a patented adjustable beam pocket that simplifies this critical step in construction. Traditional methods—like styrofoam voids or site-built masonry pockets—are prone to alignment issues, labor delays, and safety concerns. Our adjustable cast-in-place solution eliminates shims and welding, reduces crane time by up to 80%, and delivers consistent, code-compliant performance.

As seen in the reference visual, traditional methods are often time-consuming and error-prone. An integrated system like ours ensures that load bearing support beams are seated securely the first time, every time.

Choosing the Right Beam—and the Right Pocket

When selecting a support beam for your building, consult with your structural engineer or contractor. Factors like span length, expected loads, and building codes will determine whether steel, LVL, or glulam is the best fit. Just as important is choosing a beam pocket that:

• Matches your beam size (our pockets accommodate W6–W27)
• Can be pre-set into forms for faster pours
• Requires no welding or shims
• Supports accurate, level placement of the beam

FAQs

How much does a support beam cost?
The cost varies widely depending on the material, length, and load requirements. A steel beam might cost $100–$300 per foot, while LVL options can be less expensive. Don't forget to factor in labor and connection hardware like beam pockets.

How much weight can a house support beam hold?
This depends on the beam's size, material, and span. A typical LVL beam can support several thousand pounds over short spans. Always consult an engineer.

What is the strongest beam shape?
The I-beam (or W-beam) is often considered the strongest due to its efficient geometry, which resists bending while remaining relatively lightweight.

How long can a support beam span?
Engineered wood beams can span up to 40 feet in residential applications. Steel beams can go even farther—but long spans require precise, reinforced pockets to ensure safety.