Structure / Horizontal member
Beam
/biːm/noun
Old English bēam: a tree, post, or piece of timber.
Definition
A structural member that spans between supports and carries loads acting across its length. Beams are commonly horizontal and transfer floor, roof, or wall loads to columns or bearing walls.
Fig. 14 — Beam: schematic studyNOT TO SCALE
Illustrative study — Beam · AI-generatedSAMPLE IMAGE
Photo study — Beam · AI-generated00:06
Structural & construction notes
Beams resist bending and shear. Their depth, span, material, and connections determine how they carry loads and limit deflection. Common materials include timber, structural steel, and reinforced concrete.
An educational reference. Project-specific design requires professional guidance.