| Hi Al Stevens,
For your own safety (and your family's), let me explain some issues, starting with the building codes
As we all know, there are building codes, but each state / province has its own version / adaptation. An Architect, Engineer, etc must elaborate the interpretation / application of the Building codes, calculation of structures and foundations, for each project, etc. Not only for the technical understanding of these issues, but for the liability.
An advice regarding a technical subject (something basic as the beam dimension and independent if you are paid for this advice or not) implies liability.
Follow a structural advice provided through Internet is DANGEROUS
Structures / materials are quite different depending the characteristics of the project, load, soil / topography, wind conditions and seismic calculations.
Certainly, if you don't know these answers, then it is not a DIY task so I'd recommend a consultation with an structural engineer in order to analyze the whole situation __________________ Good luck with your project!  Patricia |