Buying a 100 yr old house with brand new basement. Want to remove a few supporting walls and also some teleposts in the basement so it can be developed. What other options do I have besides the steel beam which will cost me a fotune and having those walls there and teleposts all over? This house is a bit of a DIY project house for me and my bf so we are looking to do everything ourselves at the lowest costs possible. HELP ME PLEASE!
2007-08-07 08:19:48 · 5 answers · asked by Vanessa 2 in Home & Garden ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
Advise from a structural engineer would be a prudent start.
It's hard to tell what you can do without seeing what is there.
The money you spend for that could save you a lot more down the road.
Jack posts can sometimes be removed after doubling or tripling (fasten the extra joist securely in several places) the existing joists. If you have to raise any joists, do it slowly, a turn or two a day. Your house took a long time to sag into it's current shape and it won't like abrupt changes.
2007-08-07 09:20:00 · answer #1 · answered by avnurd 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The steel beam option is not your only option. However without determining the tributary and point loads the beam(s) will see it is not advisable to seek any further advise without consulting an Engineer or Architect. You have stated that the basement is new (under existing 100 yr old home). Contact the Engineer who designed the basement and describe your desired modification. This professional is already familiar with your project.
If columns (posts) were placed under load bearing points the design individual has an idea about the loads already bearing therein.
2007-08-07 17:09:08 · answer #2 · answered by Paul C 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You can make a beam of wood frame, covered with plywood sides and bottom. Use 3/4" plywood for maximum strength.
A supplier or lumber yard may be able to inform you on exactly how to do this.
The beam can be painted, or, if you use cabinet grade plywood, it can be stained. Cabinet grade is expensive. None is "cheap".
2007-08-07 15:31:13 · answer #3 · answered by ed 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
sorry you will need structural eng. to ad vise you this is not a beginning do it your self task your 100 year old house could end up in your New basement sorry again.
2007-08-07 15:27:14 · answer #4 · answered by oildog#1 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Use screw jacks.
2007-08-07 15:25:31 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋