RSJ stands for ‘rolled steel joist’ and it is a preferred material for building stable and durable foundation for many different kinds of structures and projects, including loft conversions. RSJ steel beams typically have a cross-section shaped like an I or H, and they can be transformed into different sizes to suit your requirements. Buying RSJ steel beams may seem a straightforward process where you select the products and wait for them to be delivered to your construction site. However, there are other things you must consider to ensure high-quality and cost-effective materials. Get to know them through these tips to buy RSJ steel beams:
- Know more about RSJ beams – Manufacturers would typically use mild steel to craft RSJ beams, but experienced fabricators can also make them out of other materials (i.e. aluminium), depending on your application or requirements. Be sure to talk to the steel fabricator company about your needs, so they can create the best steel beams for them. Usually, steel beams are fabricated by hot rolling, extrusion, or cold rolling.
- Make sure you have your drawings – You should be able to identify the right grade of steel for your project by referring to the blueprints of your structure. Most fabricators will produce wide beams according to EN 10025-2:2004, and the properties and dimensions of the beams are according to BS4-1:2005. Make sure that the fabricator itself is CE certified to BS EN 1090 for structural steel; which is a legal requirement for products to be sold in the UK. When choosing RSJ steel beams, make sure that they have no rust and that their diameter is consistent with your drawings.
- Buy from an established & trustworthy steel fabricator – Look up reputable steel fabrication companies and narrow down the selection by picking one with an excellent and proven track record in making custom steel beams and other products to their customers. Make sure they have experience in crafting high-quality RSJ beams for your specific application. Determine the tools they use, too, and be certain that these are advanced, high-end machinery that helps minimise manufacturing costs and the time it takes to finish the beams.
- Get to know the other services offered by the fabricator – Consider a fabricator that can deliver the materials to your job site promptly. Some companies can also help you with the installation.
About the author
Steel and Site is prominent structural steel and steel beam supplier to the building and construction industry in Midlands, London, UK. We offer a wide range of products include RSJ beams, RSJ steel beams, steel stairs, mezzanine floors, entrance canopies at affordable prices. We also offer steel for loft conversion and onsite fabrication services.