Cost to Replace a Support Beam
Replacing a support beam means temporarily supporting the structure with shoring posts and hydraulic jacks, removing the existing beam, and setting a new steel, wood, or engineered-wood beam at its bearing points. It is a hard structural project because the building load must remain supported while the beam and joist connections are changed.
Common reasons homeowners do this job
- The existing support beam is worn or damaged.
- A beam needs replacement as part of a structural upgrade.
- The home needs a new structural beam to support the existing load.
- Bearing points or joist connections need to be addressed along with the beam.
- A homeowner wants to replace an existing beam with a steel, wood, or engineered-wood beam.
DIY or call a pro?
A licensed professional should replace a support beam; this project suits professionals only. Structural load-bearing work has a high risk of building collapse if the shoring, beam placement, or connections are handled incorrectly. A structural engineer is required to determine the correct beam size and material and to protect the structure’s safety and integrity. Check with your local building department whether this work needs a permit.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I replace a support beam myself, or should I hire someone?
- Hire a licensed professional. The structure must be supported with temporary shoring and hydraulic jacks before any beam or post is removed, and incorrect work can lead to building collapse. A structural engineer is also required to determine the appropriate beam size and material for the load.
- What makes support-beam replacement more expensive?
- The price can increase with the job’s size, the labor time required, the beam and connection materials selected, and hauling away the old material. Steel, wood, and engineered-wood beam choices can also affect the materials portion of the work.
- What should be checked before choosing a replacement beam?
- Start with a structural engineer’s assessment of the load requirements, beam size, and material. Existing bearing points and every joist connection should also be identified before the old beam is removed, so the new beam can be properly secured and the joists reconnected.
- Why is temporary shoring necessary when replacing a beam?
- Temporary shoring posts and hydraulic jacks carry the structure’s load while the old beam is removed and the new one is lifted into place. The temporary supports stay in place until the new beam is fully secured at its bearing points and is load-bearing.
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