A practical guide to RSJs and builders beams

Introduction

When a job needs structural steel, clear information and good planning save time and cost. This guide explains what to prepare, how to specify, and how to handle delivery and installation on site.

Start with the design

Begin with an approved structural design. The engineer should confirm the section size and grade, any plates or stiffeners, and the positions of holes. Do not fabricate or install until this design is signed off.

What to send for pricing

Provide a drawing or a clear sketch with sizes in millimetres, plus the finish you want. If plates or holes are required, show their size and exact positions from a known edge. Add the site postcode, any access notes and your preferred week for delivery. If you only have a sketch, keep it neat and label the faces so there is no doubt which edge is the datum.

Measuring well

State the overall beam length from end to end and confirm the bearing lengths. If end plates are used, say whether the overall length includes the plate or excludes it. Mark hole centres from the same edge every time and note which face is front. Avoid rounding. Precise millimetre values reduce rework.

Choosing a finish

For most internal work, shot blasting followed by primer gives a clean surface that is ready for installation. Where steel will remain visible, powder coat provides a smarter look. Discuss any special finishes early, since these may affect the programme.

Lead times and planning

Lead time depends on complexity, finish and current workload. You can help by sending complete information from the start and approving any drawings quickly. Allow extra time for powder coat or special finishes. Share your preferred week and any fixed dates as early as possible.

Delivery and lifting

Give a named site contact and a mobile number. Explain how the vehicle will access the site and where the beam can be set down. Confirm how you will lift the steel, whether by crane, telehandler or manual handling for smaller pieces. Make space ready before the vehicle arrives and keep labels with the correct beam.

Storage and installation

Store steel off the ground on timber bearers. If it must be kept outside, cover it but allow air to move so moisture does not sit on the surface. On the day of installation have drawings, packings and fixings to hand, agree a lifting plan and keep an exclusion zone clear. Use the correct tools for drilling and tightening and follow hot work rules if any welding or cutting is planned.

Pitfalls to avoid

The most common issues are unclear hole centres, plate sizes that do not match the design, assumed finishes and last minute dimension changes. Freeze the specification before fabrication and keep a single point of contact for any updates.

Quick checklist

Before you order, make sure you have: the approved design, a drawing with sizes in millimetres, finish confirmed, delivery access understood, and a named contact for the day.

This lighter guide should help you brief, order and install RSJs and builders beams with fewer questions and a smoother day on site.

If you need high quality, made to measure builders beams get in touch with us today.