Ran across this page from Fine Homebuilding that gives the basics on how different dimensions affect the strength of a beam, is good information not only in home construction but for shelves. etc. as well. There is a link on the page to go to a .pdf with excellent illustrations.
That's a choice...If you like steel, the look of steel and "know steel" then that's what someone should go with...If not hiring a processional PE, or related professional woodworker that can do this time of "span work."
Sorry...Not true at all, not accurate and out of context without design parameters...Steel will sag just as bad as wood if not size properly and if wood is...sized properly...even if green will actual develop a reverse camber...IF!...you know wood and what to do with it in such conditions...
I have seen structures where the builders used steel beams, but clad them in wood to make them look like wood beams. Sometimes it is an aesthetic improvement. Sometimes it looks phony.
Yes you can cover a steel beam with a faux beam made from foam. Used here in UK as a decorative feature.
johnep
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