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Beam
A beam is a heavy horizontal member that carries loads from above and transfers them to posts or walls.
Why it matters
Beams support other framing like joists and rafters. Undersized beams can sag over time, causing cracks and uneven floors.
Where people get this wrong
A header is a beam over an opening. A beam can be solid wood, laminated, or steel. Sizing depends on span and load.
Real-world example
You remove a wall and install a beam to hold the load that wall used to carry. Without the right beam, the house would sag where the wall was.
Where this hits your build
This shows up during framing. Once walls are up and covered, you lose access. The pre-drywall walkthrough is your window to verify.
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