Building Steelwork – Beam Carrying Wall and Slab Loads A steel beam that supports loads from a floor slab and also carries the weight of a wall along the edge of a building is commonly referred to as which type of beam?

Introduction / Context:
In multi-storey building frames, specialized beam names reflect their location and loading. Perimeter beams often carry cladding or masonry wall loads in addition to floor slab reactions. Correct terminology helps in communicating design intent and detailing requirements among architects and structural engineers.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Beam is located along the building edge/perimeter.
• It supports floor slab loads (gravity) and also carries wall loads above.
• Structural steel framing context.

Concept / Approach:

A spandrel beam runs along the external face of a building and typically supports exterior wall (masonry or curtain wall) loads and the slab edge. This distinguishes it from other beam types used for different functions and locations in the structural system.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Standard steel design texts and detailing manuals define spandrel beams exactly in this context; they often include wall anchors, embeds, and edge-plate details for facade connection.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Stringer beam: Usually supports floor system between main girders inside the bay, not perimeter wall loads.
• Lintel beam: Spans over an opening in a wall; carries wall above across a door/window, not a full-length perimeter beam.
• Header beam: A framing member above an opening (timber/steel framing), not the facade-carrying perimeter beam.

Common Pitfalls:

Using the generic term “edge beam” interchangeably; while acceptable informally, “spandrel beam” is the precise term in steel building practice for wall-and-slab edge support.

Final Answer:

Spandrel beam