Flitch Beam Design
A flitch beam is a composite structural beam made by combining timber members with a steel plate. It is commonly used where a stronger beam is needed but the available ceiling depth is limited, such as wall removals, long openings, garage openings, additions, and remodels.
Loading And Member Sizing
We start by reviewing the span, support conditions, tributary loads, dead loads, live loads, roof or floor loads, and any point loads above the beam. The timber and steel plate are then sized to work together as one structural member. Checks may include bending, shear, bearing, deflection, bolt spacing, connection design, and load transfer into posts, walls, or foundations.
Code-Based Design
- International Building Code (IBC): Used for commercial, industrial, and multi-family projects.
- International Residential Code (IRC): Used for one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses.
- BS Codes / Eurocodes: Used for UK-based projects, including structural loading, timber design, steel design, and connection checks.
What We Provide
We provide flitch beam calculations, steel plate sizing, timber member checks, bolt spacing notes, support reactions, connection details, and permit-ready structural drawings for residential and light commercial projects.