When it comes to beams, size definitely matters. But how do you know what size beam you need to span a certain distance? Check out this blog post to learn more!
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Introduction
Beams are an important part of construction projects, and it is crucial to select the right size beam in order to span the desired distance safely. The size and type of beam you need will depend on a number of factors, including the span (distance to be spanned by the beam), the load (weight that will be supported by the beam), and the environment (indoors or outdoors). In this article, we’ll discuss how to calculate the size of beam you need to span 16 feet.
Types of Beams
There are several types of beams from which you can choose, and the size of the beam you need will depend on the span of your 16-foot opening. If you’re using a wood beam, you’ll need to factor in the weight of the beam when choosing the size. The following table lists some of the most common types of beams along with their recommended span sizes.
Beam Type Recommended Span Size
Joist 8 feet
I-Beam 16 feet
L-Beam 16 feet
T-Beam 24 feet
Loads
Beams come in all sorts of different sizes, but there are some industry standards. When a architect or engineer designs a building, they need to consider the loads that the beam will be required to support.
There are three primary types of loads that need to be considered — dead, live and wind. Dead loads are the self-weight of the beam and the materials that will be supported by the beam. Live loads are things like people, furniture or snow on a roof. Wind loads are created by the wind pressure acting on a structure.
The size of the beam you will need to span 16 feet depends on the type of load that it will be required to support.
-If you are doing a roof only project and snow is the only concern, you need a beam that can support at least 30 pounds per square foot. This means that your 16 foot span would require a beam that can support at least 480 pounds.
-If you are doing a floor project and you need to factor in dead and live loads, you need a beam that can support at least 40 pounds per square foot. This means your 16 foot span would require a beam that can support at least 640 pounds.
-If wind is also something you need to factor in, you should use 50 pounds per square foot as your threshold. This means your 16 foot span would require a beam that could support at least 800 pounds.
Deflection
Beams are made to support loads. The amount of weight or “load” a beam can support safely is determined by its strength and size. Lumber used for beams is graded by the load it can carry perpendicular to the grain – called “vertical bearing strength.” The most common beam in construction is the engineered I-beam, which comes in a variety of sizes.
The other factor that Beam Size depends on is the amount of “deflection” you are willing to allow the beam to have under load. Deflection is measured in inches, and is the amount that the beam will bend under weight. The formula for deflection is L/360, where L=beam length in feet. So for a 16′ span beam, the deflection limit would be 16/360, or .044″. Most builders use a deflection limit of 1/4″, so they would select a beam with a modulus of elasticity (E) of at least 1350 ksi ((16 x 12)/(360 x .25)).
Span
The size beam you need to span 16 feet depends on the weight that will be placed on the beam and the desired safety factor.
For a typical residential structure, a 2×8 beam can span up to 16 feet without additional support. If you are planning to put a heavy load on the beam, such as a hot tub or pool, you will need a stronger beam. For example, a 2×10 beam can span up to 20 feet with no additional support.
Keep in mind that these are just general guidelines. It is always best to consult with an engineer or architect before finalizing your plans.
Conclusion
If you are planning to span 16 feet with a beam, you will need to use a beam that is at least 6 inches wide and 18 feet long. The size of the beam will also be determined by the type of wood you select. For example, if you use an engineered wood beam, you will be able to span a longer distance than if you use a solid wood beam.
