RSJ installation costs vary based on beam span, the load above, access complexity, and supporting structure requirements. A 3-metre beam for a standard opening costs considerably less than a 6-metre beam for a full room-width opening. We provide detailed quotes following a free site survey, including steel, structural calculations, Building Regulations, installation, and making good.

Most single RSJ installations take 1 to 3 days. Day one involves temporary support and wall removal. Day two covers beam installation and Building Control inspection. Day three (if needed) is for plastering and decoration. More complex projects with multiple beams or upper-floor installations may take longer. We provide a specific timeline with your quote.

Yes, absolutely. Any structural work involving load-bearing wall removal requires Building Regulations approval. It’s a legal requirement. This ensures your RSJ is correctly specified and safe. We manage the entire process: structural calculations, Building Control application, on-site inspections, and completion certificate. Never attempt RSJ installation without proper approval.

No. Load-bearing walls carry the weight of floors and roof above. Removing one without structural support risks catastrophic failure including sagging floors, wall cracks, and potential collapse. The steel beam transfers the load horizontally across the opening to supporting walls on either side, safely replacing the wall’s structural function.

Walls perpendicular to floor joists, running centrally through the property, or aligned with walls below are often load-bearing. Thicker walls (over 100mm) are more likely structural. However, only a professional survey can confirm definitively. We offer free assessments where we inspect your property structure and advise on what support is required.

The correct beam size depends on span width, load above, building materials, and bearing points. It’s determined by structural engineer calculations, not guesswork. A 3-metre ground-floor opening might need a 178x102mm RSJ, while a 5-metre first-floor opening may require 254x146mm or larger. We commission full calculations for every project to ensure correct specification.

Minor hairline cracks are possible but usually minimal when proper temporary support (Acrow props) is used throughout the work. We install supports before removing walls, work methodically, and ensure the beam is level with correct bearing. Any minor cracks are filled and redecorated as part of making good. Significant cracking is rare with experienced installers.

Yes, though expect noise, dust, and restricted access to the work area for 1-3 days. We use dust sheets and barriers to contain mess, and clean up daily. Acrow props may limit room access temporarily. Many homeowners stay put, though some prefer to be away if they work from home or have young children.