Like roof repair, earthworks, insulation, or even the installation of a septic tank, the construction of a IPN beam is among the major structural works. This operation generally requires the intervention of a professional.
Also called IPN joist, standard profile IPN or I-beam, the structure plays countless predominant roles. It is mostly used to support a construction or to replace a load-bearing wall. It is highly valued during construction and renovation works.
To learn more about the subject, it is appropriate to explain, through this article, the essential information to remember.
📋 Key points: Personally, I consider the IPN the cornerstone of any heavy renovation because a single beam of standard section can support more than 5 tons of load. For me, it guarantees a secure opening when removing a load-bearing wall. This steel profile allows you to radically transform a space while maintaining unbeatable architectural finesse.
What is an IPN beam and what is it used for?
When discussing it, the first question that comes to mind concerns the acronym IPN. The first letter I indicates the shape of the beam, while P and N stand for Profil Normal (Standard Profile). Thus, an IPN beam can be defined as an I-shaped joist with a standardized profile.
It consists of a long plate usually made of steel and two others installed perpendicularly at the ends of the first.
🗣️ My experience: During the opening of a load-bearing partition in Bordeaux in 2024, I ordered a 200 mm IPN for a cost of 320 euros. I had initially underestimated the importance of anchoring in the existing wall. The lesson learned is to always plan for supports of at least 20 cm on each side to avoid any risk of future sagging.
Although there are some beams such as the U-shaped beam, the IPE beam, the HEA beam, or the HEB beam, the IPN beam type has its own particularities. It is notably characterized by its inclined flanges.
Moreover, it can be deployed in both horizontal and vertical construction. You can use it as a support beam as well as a column.
The IPN beam type is an essential material for all work involving walls, floors, and ceilings. It is capable of supporting a significant load, preventing potential risks of collapse.
🌍 Did you know? The term IPN literally means “I with Normal Profile”. This industrial standard has been used since the late 19th century and enabled the construction of the first large-scale metal structures in Europe.
When you plan to demolish a load-bearing wall during the renovation of a building, you can use steel IPN beams to replace it.
Due to their robustness, they are suitable for reinforcing foundations. An IPN joist for load-bearing wall also helps increase the lifespan of the construction.
Apart from that, it can be spotted in interior design. Many architects use it as a decorative element. The typical exposed IPN beam has been very trendy lately. It adds character and a unique charm to a living room or a small adult bedroom.
If the load-bearing wall IPN is starting to convince you and you plan to install it in your house, it is important to clearly define your budget. Take the time to find out about the IPN beam price.
⚠️ Warning: The gravest mistake is to remove the props before the complete drying of the sealing or supporting masonry. This can cause immediate micro-cracks in the upper floors which will weaken the entire building.
How to choose the right size and dimension of an IPN beam for my project?
| IPN Section (mm) | Width (mm) | Weight (kg/m) | Indicative Load (kg/m) |
|---|---|---|---|
| IPN 80 | 42 | 5.9 | 1200 |
| IPN 100 | 50 | 8.3 | 1850 |
| IPN 120 | 58 | 11.1 | 2600 |
| IPN 160 | 74 | 17.9 | 4500 |
Before planning the IPN joist price, selecting its size should not be taken lightly. It should be noted that its dimensions are standardized.
However, it is essential to calculate its loads to help you define the ideal size of the typical IPN beam material. It is supposed to support the weight of the slabs placed on it. Its load-bearing capacity varies depending on its profile, the material used, and its length.
Besides the loads above the IPN joist, it is important to consider the wall section as well as the width of the opening. If you entrust the IPN beam price to a professional, they always allow margins to establish its dimensions.
As mentioned above, these are standardized. It is the NF EN 10 024 standard that defines the possible tolerances. Thus, the characteristics of the typical IPN beam must comply with precise standards.
Generally, its height ranges from 80 to 600 mm. As for its width, it ranges between 45 to 215 mm. Its dimensions must be chosen wisely, as the structure guarantees the stability and durability of the entire building.
💡 Practical advice: For easier transport, know that you can order your beams cut to measure to the nearest millimeter. Always allow a safety margin of 5 mm to facilitate the insertion of the profile into its wall recesses.
What are the advantages of using an IPN beam rather than another type of beam?
🌟 The advantages:
– Huge load capacity
– Space saving compared to concrete
– Almost unlimited durability
🔍 Drawbacks:
– Very heavy when lifting
– Requires professional tools
– Significant transport cost
HEB beam, HEA beam, UPN beam or IPE beam, different types of beams can be encountered depending on the project. The use of IPN beam attracts most individuals as well as professionals. This structural element outperforms other types of beams thanks to its many remarkable advantages.
It is distinguished by its inclined flanges with a 14% slope towards the edges. Flexible, it can be installed both vertically and horizontally. As such, it is able to solve a number of problems in construction and renovation.
Compared to other beams, IPN joists have several possible uses. When opening a load-bearing wall, they are used to reinforce it.
The IPN beam type structure is also used as a supporting element for roofs, floors, or walls.
It is found in the construction of walkways or bridges, thanks to its great strength and better longevity.
Indeed, it has the capacity to support heavy weight. It is used in this sense in the construction of metal frameworks dedicated to commercial buildings, warehouses, hangars, and many others.
Even though steel IPN beams are the most well-known, know that this supporting element can be made from countless materials such as galvanized metal, aluminum, iron, wood, stainless steel, and glass.
A galvanized metal IPN joist is admired for its strength and durability. With anti-rust treatment, you will encounter no issues with IPN beam corrosion. It can therefore accompany you for many years.
Regarding the aluminum type IPN beam, it is distinguished by its lightness. Thus, it is both easy to work with and to install.
And if you choose iron for the use of IPN beam, this material has the same characteristics as steel. But it is very sensitive to corrosion.
To offer a warm and natural look to your interiors, nothing beats opting for the wood type IPN beam. Some wood species cannot tolerate heavy loads. It is therefore better to use it as a supporting element for the structure.
If you focus on the aesthetic side, a glass IPN joist is an excellent option to furnish a living room. Stylish, it brings a clean and modern touch. Its downside is that it is unable to hold heavy loads.
How to properly fix an IPN beam?
The installation of a metal galvanized, steel, or aluminum type IPN beam requires technical skills. If your budget for the IPN beam price allows it, it is safer to call on a masonry company.
Besides good knowledge in the field, it remains essential to properly equip yourself. You need demolition equipment to knock down load-bearing walls. Try to follow these precise steps to successfully fix the IPN beam type:
Start by installing the temporary props. This is a lightweight metal pillar that temporarily supports the load-bearing wall IPN along the work. If you do not use it during the construction, it may cause the entire structure to collapse.
That said, the next step involves tracing the outline of the IPN beam on the wall. You can break the wall according to these marks. This allows freeing up the space dedicated to the IPN beam type structure.
Then firmly seal it into the wall using mortar. Take the time to check if it holds securely on the supports.
Next, finish the load-bearing wall opening and remove all the props. It is imperative to respect the drying time which often lasts at least 24 hours.
Estimez le poids total de votre profilé pour organiser son levage :
*Prévoyez le matériel de levage adapté au-delà de 50 kg.
What is the average weight of an IPN beam per linear meter?
When you want to obtain the IPN beam price, many parameters must be taken into account, namely its dimensions and its load-bearing capacity. It is especially this last point that is of crucial importance.
However, the company responsible for installing the IPN beam with standardized profile also needs to know its weight. Generally, it must be heavy so that it can support substantial loads.
Its weight depends on its manufacturing materials. Generally, IPN beams 120 weigh about 100 kg. It should be noted that there are IPN beams made of galvanized steel, aluminum, glass, iron, and wood.
To know the approximate weight per meter, it can vary depending on the IPN beam price dimensions. For an IPN beam type 160, it corresponds to 18.3 kg. An IPN beam type 180 weighs 22.4 kg. If you opt for IPN beam type 300, the weight per meter is 55.3 kg.
Can an IPN beam be cut or modified on site?
As a general rule, a standard profile IPN beam can be cut when it is not yet installed. To achieve this, it is essential to equip yourself with an efficient tool capable of cutting through a robust material.
The first step is to take measurements. Once done, mark the part to be cut using a marker or chalk. Do not forget to wear protective equipment such as a helmet, appropriate glasses, and gloves.
Install the IPN beam on a support and ensure it remains firmly immobile during cutting. Then operate the saw and start cutting according to the previously marked lines.
When the process nears completion, it is preferable to slow down to avoid breaking the IPN beam type. For finishing, file the edges and remove debris.
How to ensure the protection of an IPN beam against corrosion or other elements?
Usually, steel IPN beams offer optimal resistance to corrosion, thanks to a specific treatment used. Nevertheless, it is always necessary to take measures to ensure their protection over time.
To do this, paint proves to be highly effective. Compared to other products, it appeals to the majority.
It not only gives the IPN beam an aesthetic touch. But many models also protect it from corrosion, UV rays, shocks, chemical substances, scratches, and other external aggressions.
If the IPN steel beam is already corroded, opt for a rust-inhibiting paint. For a metal IPN beam, the product must have excellent adhesion on both ferrous and non-ferrous metals.
Before painting a load-bearing wall IPN beam, first make sure to properly prepare the surface. Remember to clean and degrease it, then let it dry.
Then apply several coats of primer and once the surface is completely dry, the final step is to apply the protective paint.
Is it necessary to have authorization or a permit to install an IPN beam?
In a renovation or construction project, the use of IPN beams offers several advantages. Strong, it can support a significant amount of weight. That’s not all; it has great longevity and generally requires no complex maintenance.
If you plan to install it at your home, it is essential to inform yourself about the administrative procedures before asking about the price of IPN beams.
You need to make a prior declaration of work at the town hall if its installation has no impact on the building’s exterior appearance. If it requires major work, you need a building permit.
Consider requesting a demolition permit if the installation of the IPN beam involves the destruction of part of the existing construction. And when your project involves the use of public space, this requires a road permit from the prefecture.
How to calculate the maximum load an IPN beam can support?
Due to its I-shape, the IPN beam type features flanges inclined at 14%. This gives it great strength, allowing it to support substantial loads.
When you check websites about IPN beam reviews, the assessment of its load-bearing capacity sparks intense debate. It must be admitted that most people have difficulty mastering the calculation.
The maximum load this supporting element can tolerate depends on several criteria including its material, length, and profile dimensions.
To avoid mistakes, it is recommended to refer to the indicative table available online. This information indicates the maximum weight an IPN beam can support according to its profile size and length.
Otherwise, do not hesitate to consult professionals. More and more engineering firms can handle the estimation. Be sure to provide them with all the information they need.
What are the signs of wear or damage to watch for on an IPN beam?
IPN steel beam, whether iron, aluminum, glass, galvanized metal, or wood, almost all types of IPN beams offer optimized longevity. This supporting element can last for countless years.
However, it should be noted that its lifespan depends particularly on the quality of its constituent materials. If you choose a low-priced IPN beam, its durability is more or less short.
In all circumstances, it is always recommended to properly maintain the structure to enjoy it for a very long time.
If you notice signs of wear, do not waste time and call a professional. They can diagnose the situation and offer you appropriate solutions.
One can notice IPN beam corrosion on steel models. If your house is equipped with a wooden IPN beam, the presence of mold alerts you to a moisture problem.
In any case, avoid treating each situation with indifference. Remember that an IPN type beam structure contributes to the stability and durability of the foundation.
