Opening Up Your Main Floor with Structural Steel Beams

Creating an open-concept main floor is one of the most dramatic and rewarding upgrades during a home renovation. For many Calgary homeowners, removing walls between the kitchen, dining, and living areas instantly transforms the feel of the home — brighter, more connected, and better suited to modern living. Behind every great open space lies serious structural engineering — and that’s where large steel beams come in.

Why Steel Beams Are Used in Home Renovations

When a load-bearing wall is removed, the structural loads from above — the roof, upper floor, and even snow loads — still need safe transfer to the foundation. Steel beams, such as W8x58 or W10x33 I-beams, provide the strength to span long distances without intermediate supports. They allow your main living area to stay wide and open while maintaining full structural integrity.

Two Main Options: Hidden in the Ceiling vs. Drop-Down Beam

1. Hidden (Flush) Beam InstallationThis is the most seamless option visually. The steel beam is recessed up into the ceiling joists so the ceiling remains flat across the entire space.However, this method requires more invasive work:

• Temporary shoring walls to hold the structure during demolition

• Cutting and re-framing of existing joists to fit around the new beam

• Engineering design to detail end bearing, connections, and load transfer

• Often foundation or concrete pad upgrades to support new steel posts

2. Drop-Down Beam (Exposed or Bulkhead)A drop beam hangs slightly below the ceiling line, sometimes boxed in with drywall to match the aesthetic. It’s typically more cost-effective because the existing joists can remain mostly intact and tie into the beam from the sides. This option still requires engineering but involves less disruption to upper floors.

What’s Involved in the Process

At LBProjects, every structural modification begins with precision and safety in mind:

1. Engineering & Drawings – A licensed structural engineer designs the beam size, bearing points, and connections.

2. Site Preparation & Shoring – Temporary supports are installed before cutting into any load-bearing wall.

3. Concrete Work – New footings or pads are poured to carry the new load if existing foundation points are insufficient.

4. Steel Installation – The beam is delivered, lifted, and welded or bolted into place, then inspected.

5. Finishing – Drywall, bulkhead framing, and ceiling finishes bring it all together seamlessly.

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Partnering with Trusted Engineers and Trades

LBProjects collaborates closely with Calgary-based structural engineers to ensure every open-concept renovation meets or exceeds local building code. Our team manages every step — from permit drawings and shoring plans to beam installation and final inspections — ensuring a smooth, professional process from start to finish.

The LBProjects Approach

We don’t just install beams — we design livable, functional spaces. Whether you’re opening a kitchen to your living room or removing multiple walls for a full main-floor remodel, our experience with Calgary home renovations ensures a safe and stunning transformation.

Thinking about opening up your main floor?Let’s talk about what’s structurally possible — and how a properly designed steel beam can redefine the heart of your home.

Contact LBProjects today for trusted home renovations in Calgary.