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Structural Steels & RSJs in Brighton & Hove
Taking out a load bearing wall is what turns a dark Victorian terrace into an open kitchen diner. The steel that replaces it has to be sized by an engineer, supported correctly while it goes in, and fire protected afterwards.
We install structural steels and RSJs across Brighton and Hove, whether that is a single opening between two rooms or a full width beam across the back of the house.
What’s involved
What the job actually includes
Working from the engineer's design
Steel sized and specified by a structural engineer. We build to that drawing, and we will arrange the engineer if you do not have one.
Temporary support
Propping and needling the structure properly before anything is cut. This is the part that matters most and the part most often rushed.
Padstones and bearings
Correct padstones so load is spread into the structure instead of concentrated on brickwork that cannot take it.
Installation
Beam lifted, seated and packed, with the structure above transferred onto it properly.
Fire protection
Boarding or encasing the steel to meet building regulations.
Making good
Closing up, plastering and finishing so the opening looks original rather than cut in.
Local knowledge
Terraces, party walls and access
On a Brighton terrace a beam often bears into a party wall, which means the Party Wall Act applies and your neighbour has to be notified before work starts. Getting that served early avoids a delay that has nothing to do with the building work. Access is the other constraint: steels for a mid terrace usually come through the house or over the roof, and on the steeper streets around Hanover and Queen's Park that needs planning rather than improvising on the day.
Common questions
Structural Steels: your questions answered
How do I know if a wall is load bearing?
It is not always obvious, and it is worth being sure. Direction of floor joists, whether the wall runs through to the floor above, and the age of the property all help. We will tell you at the site visit, and if there is any doubt an engineer confirms it.
Do I need building regulations approval to remove a wall?
Yes. Removing a load bearing wall is notifiable work and building control will want to inspect it. We work with building control throughout the job as standard.
Do I need to tell my neighbours?
If the beam bears into a shared party wall, yes, and there are notice periods involved. We flag it early so it does not hold the job up.
How long does it take to put a steel in?
The steel itself is usually a matter of days. Propping, making good, plastering and finishing is what takes the time. We give you a realistic programme covering the whole thing, not just the beam.
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