Where practical, I-beam can be replaced in residential construction by:

In residential construction, I-beams are often used to support loads and create open spaces within a building. One viable alternative to an I-beam is a load-bearing wall. A load-bearing wall transfers weight from the roof and upper levels down to the foundation, effectively assuming the structural role that an I-beam plays.

Using a load-bearing wall can be advantageous because it allows for the integration of additional features, such as windows or doors, while still providing necessary structural support. It can also contribute to overall stability and can be constructed from various materials, depending on design preferences and requirements.

While the other options, such as a heavier beam, a double joist, or a concrete slab, might provide some structural support, they do not directly fulfill the same function as effectively as a load-bearing wall in typical residential settings. A heavier beam might add unnecessary weight, a double joist might not offer sufficient load-bearing capacity for larger spans, and a concrete slab mostly acts as a foundational element rather than a structural support beam replacement.