Why Are My Beams at Different Heights? Coordinating B2 and B3 Soffit Levels

On projects with multiple intersecting beams — often a B2 and a B3 where one frames into the side of the other — the beam soffits are frequently at different heights. This surprises some clients, who expect the underside of adjacent beams to line up.

Why the Levels Are Often Different

The level difference is almost always intentional and comes from one or more of the following:

Load path logic. The beam that sits higher typically bears onto a padstone, with the lower beam framing into its web. This hierarchy — where one beam is the primary carrier and the other frames in — is the standard connection arrangement, and it results in an inherent level difference equal to the depth of the connection detail.

Buildability. The connection method (fin plate, web cleats, end plate) dictates a minimum vertical clearance between the two beam flanges. This drives the level difference.

Sequencing. The higher beam normally goes in first, so that the second beam can land onto it. The level difference reflects this construction logic.

Is This a Problem?

Usually not. Most builders are experienced in boxing out or boarding between beams at different levels, and the headroom impact is typically modest.

Where both beams are visible in an open-plan space — and the soffit step will be visible in the finished interior — you may want both beams to downstand at the same level, even if it means boxing out one beam to achieve a flush soffit on the lower side.

Can the Levels Be Coordinated?

Yes. If you want both beams at the same soffit level, raise a Change Request. The engineer will check that:

1. The revised connection detail still works structurally (varying the relative level changes the geometry of the connection)
2. The padstone sizes may need to be revised (where a beam drops further into a wall opening)
3. Both beams still have adequate bearing at their end supports

There is usually a way to coordinate soffit levels if the project requires it, but this sometimes comes with trade-offs in headroom, connection complexity, or buildability that should be understood before committing to the change.

Request a Change Request or speak to us about coordinating your beam soffit levels.