Prices for a 20-foot laminated veneer lumbar (LVL) beam vary by load, grade, and installation specifics. This guide provides typical cost ranges, per-unit metrics, and common drivers that affect pricing.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beam (20′, 1-3/4″ x 9-1/2″ LVL) | $300 | $450 | $750 | Assumes standard residential load, 1500–2500 lbs neutral axis. |
| Delivery | $50 | $100 | $200 | Local surcharge, distance-varied. |
| Labor (install) | $150 | $350 | $700 | Includes fasteners and bracing. |
| Hardware & Fasteners | $20 | $60 | $120 | Beams often require metal plates and screws. |
| Permits/Inspections | $0 | $50 | $300 | Depends on jurisdiction. |
| Disposal/Removal | $0 | $20 | $100 | Delivery/haul-away may apply. |
| Warranty/Fees | $0 | $25 | $60 | Manufacturer warranty typically included. |
| Taxes | $0 | $40 | $120 | State/local taxes. |
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Overview Of Costs
The total cost range for a single 20′ LVL beam typically spans from $320 to $900, depending on size, grade, and installation factors. One should consider both total project cost and per-foot pricing to compare options across suppliers. The per-foot estimate commonly falls in the $15–$28/ft band when including both beam and labor. Assumptions include standard residential use, with typical fasteners and basic bracing.
Cost Breakdown
The following table outlines major cost components and typical ranges. Prices vary by region and supplier; higher load scenarios push up the beam and labor costs.
| Category | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $300 | $450 | $750 | 20′ LVL, standard 1-3/4″ thickness; higher grade adds cost. |
| Labor | $150 | $350 | $700 | Includes installation, cutting, and bracing. |
| Delivery | $50 | $100 | $200 | Distance-based surcharge. |
| Permits | $0 | $50 | $300 | Often required for structural work. |
| Disposal | $0 | $20 | $100 | Haul-away costs if applicable. |
| Warranty/Fees | $0 | $25 | $60 | Standard warranty coverage. |
| Taxes | $0 | $40 | $120 | Sales tax varies by state. |
What Drives Price
LVL price per length is influenced by load rating, depth and width, and grade tolerance. For a 20′ beam, higher load requirements (e.g., supporting second-story floors) increase both material cost and removal of existing framing. LVL depth choices, such as 9-1/2″ versus deeper sections, also impact price. Additionally, asymmetrical spans, cutting, notch allowances, and required bracing alter labor needs. Regional labor rates and supplier stock affect final quotes.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by region: urban, suburban, and rural markets show distinct deltas. In the Northeast and West Coast, beam costs and delivery can be higher by roughly 10–25% versus the Midwest or South. A suburban install may cost ~5–15% more for labor than a rural job due to crew availability, while urban jobs may incur higher permit and disposal fees. Expect the following ballparks for a single 20′ LVL beam:
- Urban: Low $320, Avg $520, High $860
- Suburban: Low $340, Avg $520, High $760
- Rural: Low $300, Avg $420, High $700
Labor, Hours & Rates
Labor costs cover crew time for handling, cutting, and installation. Typical installations require 1–2 crew members for 2–6 hours depending on constraints and bracing needs. A standard rate range is $50–$120 per hour per worker, with higher rates in tight spaces or complex projects. For a 20′ beam, labor often equals roughly $150–$700, heavily influenced by site access and required bracing hardware. A quick formula considers labor hours × hourly rate to estimate labor costs.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate common configurations and totals.
-
Basic
Specs: 20′ LVL, 1-3/4″ x 9-1/2″, standard load, no notch, basic bracing.
Labor hours: 2; per-hour rate: $60; Materials: $320; Delivery: $70; Permits: $0; Total: approximately $520.
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Mid-Range
Specs: 20′ LVL, increased load rating, minor notching, standard bracing.
Labor hours: 4; per-hour rate: $85; Materials: $470; Delivery: $110; Permits: $50; Total: approximately $1,100.
-
Premium
Specs: 20′ LVL, high load, deeper section, multiple notches, enhanced bracing and fasteners.
Labor hours: 6; per-hour rate: $110; Materials: $700; Delivery: $180; Permits: $300; Total: approximately $1,900.
Ways To Save
Cost-conscious approaches include shopping for the right region, selecting standard options, and coordinating timing. Consider consolidating projects to reduce delivery and crew mobilization. If structural recalculation is possible, use standard LVL depths and avoid premium grades unless required. Scheduling during off-peak seasons may shave delivery and labor charges; verify if any rebates or contractor promotions apply in the local market.
