Anyone use wood I-beams?

[mitsuman47]

I'm considering using these. Seems you can get longer spans out of them than with 2x12s (would be using 14" or 16" deep i beams). Also, since the web is only ~3/8"-1/2" thick there would be less of a thermal bridge if using these for rafters with foam insulation on a cathedral ceiling.

Any negatives to using these?

Thanks!

[MarkAndDebbie]

I used them for my floor joists. I thought they were great - dead flat with no cup, twist, or bow. Careful walking on them till you get the subfloor down - they'll roll on you.

[John_M]

I have used them as floor joists in my cabin and were really easy to use.  I was able to span my 18 foot distance without a center beam.  Floor seems real solid.  I did not use them as rafters but have looked at a number of structures on-line that did.  They are tricky to cut and I would guess attach (I think there are some special brackets needed).  They are also a little wobbly when laid on their side.

[poppy]

I used some 20' ones for floor support beams and a couple of 18' ones for some floor joists, but only because I got them so cheap.

They also allowed me to design for a cabin width of more than 16' and for a 16" bumb out without getting extra long 2x's.

There would be some thermal bridging advantages, but they won't last as long in a fire as regular 2x's.

They were a real pain when mixing with 2x's; so I don't recommend that.  Had to do a lot of fitting.

You just have to be careful with deflection calcs. to prevent too much bounce.

I'm almost sorry I got them so cheap.  Like the design concept though.

[rwanders]

I used them for floor joists in my 24x34 along with 3/4 OSB T&G for the subfloor----floor is dead level and absolutely bounce free. Used per manufacturers instructions, they have many advantages over 2X lumber and can definitely handle longer spans.

[mitsuman47]

What were the prices that you guys got them for? Also length and depth?