Beam Size Calculator
Estimate the required beam size for residential construction based on span, load, and wood species. A quick reference, not a replacement for engineering.
Free Structural Calculators
17 toolsBeam sizing, load, and deflection calculators. Browse our free structural tools below — no sign-up required.
Beam Span Calculator
Calculate the maximum allowable span for a wood beam based on size, species, and loading. Quick reference for residential beam spans.
Dead & Live Load Calculator
Calculate combined dead and live loads for floors and roofs. Quickly sum material weights and code-required live loads for structural design.
Deflection Limit Calculator
Calculate the allowable and actual beam deflection based on span and stiffness. Check L/360, L/240, and other deflection criteria.
Distributed Load Calculator
Calculate reactions, maximum moment, shear, and deflection for a uniformly distributed load on a simple beam. Essential for joist and beam design.
Floor Joist Span Calculator
Find maximum floor joist span by species, grade, size, and spacing. Uses IRC residential span tables for live and dead loads.
Glulam Beam Sizing Calculator
Size a glulam beam for span and load. Compare standard glulam depths and widths to find the right beam for your project.
I-Joist Selection Calculator
Select the right I-joist depth and series for your floor span and spacing. Compare TJI and other I-joist products by span capability.
Lag Bolt Capacity Calculator
Estimate the shear and withdrawal capacity of lag screws in wood based on bolt diameter, embedment, and wood species.
Load-Bearing Wall Calculator
Determine the load on a bearing wall from floor, roof, and live loads using tributary widths. Helps with header and footing design.
LVL Beam Span Calculator
Find the maximum span for Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) beams by depth, number of plies, and load. Quick LVL sizing reference.
Moment of Inertia Calculator
Calculate the moment of inertia (I) and section modulus (S) for rectangular and multi-ply wood beam cross-sections.
Point Load Calculator
Calculate beam reactions, maximum moment, and deflection from a single point load at any position along a simple beam span.
Post Size Calculator
Estimate the minimum wood post size based on axial load and unbraced height. Uses column slenderness ratio and NDS guidelines.
Section Modulus Calculator
Calculate the required section modulus for a beam from the maximum bending moment and allowable stress. Find the minimum beam size.
Simpson Tie Selection Calculator
Find the right Simpson Strong-Tie connector for your framing connection. Look up hurricane clips, joist hangers, post bases, and straps.
Tributary Area Calculator
Calculate the tributary area for beams, columns, and footings. Convert tributary area to total load for structural design.