There are 2 W5 shapes in the AISC Shapes Database v16.0, from W5x16 at 16 lb/ft to W5x19 at 19 lb/ft. All are nominally 5 in deep, but the actual depth runs from 5.01 in to 5.15 in, because adding weight to a rolled shape makes it deeper as well as thicker.
W5 is the second-shallowest wide flange depth AISC lists, above only W4. Both shapes are light sections used for small posts, equipment frames, railing supports and short infill members rather than for spanning anything.
W5 Beam Sizes Chart
Every W5 shape, lightest first. Switch the table between inches and millimeters with the buttons.
| Shape | Weight (lb/ft) | Area (in²) | Depth (in) | Flange width (in) | Web (in) | Flange (in) | Ix (in⁴) | Sx (in³) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W5x16 | 16 | 4.71 | 5.01 | 5 | 0.24 | 0.36 | 21.4 | 8.55 |
| W5x19 | 19 | 5.56 | 5.15 | 5.03 | 0.27 | 0.43 | 26.3 | 10.2 |
What W5 Is Used For
At this depth there is very little material away from the neutral axis, so a W5 carries far less bending than its weight suggests. If a member is actually spanning, a deeper, lighter section will almost always beat it.
The nominal depth is a family name, not a measurement. Every shape above is called W5 and none of them is exactly 5 in deep. Take the real depth from the chart whenever clearance matters. See how to read steel beam sizes for the full convention.
Related Charts
Every W shape in one place: wide flange beam sizes chart. For the metric designations, see wide flange beam sizes in metric. For the naming confusion around H-beams and I-beams, see H-beam vs I-beam.
Source: AISC Shapes Database v16.0, consistent with the AISC Steel Construction Manual, 16th Edition. Last updated: October 2026.
This page is reference information only and is not engineering advice. Sizing a beam needs a licensed engineer. Full disclaimer.