Replace basement stud wall with a beam
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Posted by: steveginmd ® 11/19/2006, 09:16:42 Author Profile eMail author Edit

Hello, I have a load bearing stud wall in the basement that currently as a header spanning 8'. The house has 2 floors total above and roof for general load calculations. (I attached a picture to make it easier for me to explain.) I'd like to open up this span by replacing a 14' section with a beam (steel or lvl). My questions: 1. Assuming the beam needs to hold at least the same load as a standard stud wall (16"oc, double top plate, single sill), what would be the dimensions for a 14' length? Can it be assumed that the same beam would also support the wall having a properly designed header section as well? 2. Would a 6x6" wood column support one end of the beam or should I use a metal pole? (pole size?)(I plan on pocketing the other end of the beam on the foundation block wall.) 3. Will the concrete floor that currently supports the wall load (distributed) be able to support the column load (focused)? BTW, I'd like to make a comment about this site. I'm impressed not only with the experience/knowledge you folks have, but how well you communicate challenging issues/details to folks (like me) who aren't in your profession. Great Job and Thanks for taking the time!!! Steve

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Re: Replace basement stud wall with a beam
Re: Replace basement stud wall with a beam -- steveginmd	Post Reply	Top of thread	Forum

Posted by: randykimball ® 11/19/2006, 23:58:56 Author Profile eMail author Edit

Yes, you should be able to do that. However, you should contact a PE in your area that is authorized to make such judgments in your district. Your request must consider local regulations and zone laws. And as much as we would love to give you an answer, this is the domain of a certified Public Engineer, and his or her name will be on the line for the size, shape, length and footing of the support beam. There may (will) be other questions they will want answered as well as a photo and or drawings. They may want to know more about the load and type of home structure of the upper floors and roof truss type. Thank you for the kind flowers, we do work at being as user friendly as we can be. So, your comment is welcomed feed back. Thanx again. The worst suggestion of your lifetime may be the catalyst to the grandest idea of the century, never let suggestions go unsaid nor fail to listen to them.

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Re: Re: Replace basement stud wall with a beam
Re: Re: Replace basement stud wall with a beam -- randykimball	Post Reply	Top of thread	Forum

Posted by: steveginmd ® 11/20/2006, 20:11:34 Author Profile eMail author Edit

I appreciate your advice and will probably go that route (considering the obvious risks of guessing badly.) I have seen on many forums, people suggesting that the folks at a truss/beam company can also provide these type of calculations. Or at least if you tell them what you want to do, they will know what beam (lvl) setup to recommend. What's your take on this approach? Again, Thanks

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Re: Re: Re: Replace basement stud wall with a beam -- steveginmd	Post Reply	Top of thread	Forum

Posted by: randykimball ® 11/20/2006, 23:44:45 Author Profile eMail author Edit

I'd use an architect or PE, you may want to sell someday and will need proof of design or at the very least, you want to avoid serious injury to a loved one because of a bad calculation. Good luck, I know you will do the smart thing. The worst suggestion of your lifetime may be the catalyst to the grandest idea of the century, never let suggestions go unsaid nor fail to listen to them.

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