Please only answer if you are a structural engineer, doing such work...Excuse my ignorance, but.... We are considering some (fairly minor) alterations to our house. I realize everything structural should be taken seriously, but sometimes it seems overdone. Consider adding a single window to a load bearing wall framed with 2x4's. One could argue such a wall should not exist, but it does. Anyway, if one 2x4 is cut to make the opening, and a triple 2x8 header installed, this is inarguably overkill, and would only cost about $15 for material. But, I often hear 'consult....' with such an issue. That stops me dead in my tracks because...If an engineer is going to 'certify' such a job, I can envision he may first want to ensure that the studs, foundation, and ground on either side of window can support new load. Perhaps he should also supervise the removal, temporary support, and installation. This could cost $1000's. So, what do I do for a project needing several seemingly simple changes?
2007-12-16
01:37:29
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2 answers
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Anonymous
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Engineering