What’s the best way to use iron beams for structural support?

Iron beams are one of the most durable and versatile building materials in Valheim, making them essential for constructing large, stable structures like megabases. To use iron beams effectively, you must first unlock them by smelting iron ore in a Blast Furnace, which requires Surtling Cores and Artisan Table access. Once crafted, iron beams provide superior structural support compared to wood, allowing you to build taller and wider structures without collapse.\n\nTo begin, plan your megabase layout carefully. Iron beams are expensive to craft, so efficiency is key. Start by placing vertical iron beams as the primary support columns. These beams can extend up to 16 meters in height before requiring additional support. For horizontal spans, use iron beams to create a grid-like framework. This ensures even weight distribution and prevents sagging or collapse in large open spaces.\n\nA common challenge is managing the weight limit of building pieces. Wooden structures have a lower weight limit, but iron beams can support significantly more. To maximize stability, connect iron beams directly to the ground or stone foundations. Stone is particularly useful as it provides a solid base and can be combined with iron beams for hybrid structures. For example, use stone for the lower levels and iron beams for the upper floors to save resources while maintaining strength.\n\nWhen building in challenging biomes like the Mountains or Plains, iron beams are especially valuable. These areas often require tall structures to avoid terrain obstacles or hostile mobs. In the Mountains, use iron beams to create elevated platforms for safe building. In the Plains, iron beams can help you construct defensive towers or bridges over uneven terrain. Always reinforce your structures with additional beams in high-stress areas, such as corners or where multiple beams intersect.\n\nTo craft iron beams, you’ll need Iron and Coal. Iron is primarily found in the Swamp biome, inside Sunken Crypts. Use a Wishbone (obtained by defeating Bonemass) to locate Muddy Scrap Piles, which yield iron ore when mined. Coal can be produced by burning wood in a Charcoal Kiln or by defeating Surtlings in the Ashlands. Once you have the materials, craft iron beams at a Forge.\n\nFor advanced builders, consider combining iron beams with other materials like core wood or stone. Core wood beams, crafted from core wood found in the Black Forest, can be used alongside iron beams to create intricate designs while saving on iron. Stone walls and floors can also be paired with iron beams to create a visually appealing and structurally sound megabase.\n\nFinally, always test your structure’s stability as you build. Use the hammer’s build menu to check for color-coded stability indicators. Blue indicates maximum stability, while red signals imminent collapse. If a section turns red, add additional iron beams or supports to reinforce it. With careful planning and resource management, iron beams can help you create a megabase that is both functional and impressive.\n\nPractical tips: Always carry extra iron beams when building in remote biomes. Use the Hoe to level terrain before placing beams for a more stable foundation. And remember, iron beams are best used for critical support points—use cheaper materials like wood or core wood for non-structural elements to conserve resources.