Architecture - Main Beam split.

I have a main beam in the basement running the length of the house that has a diagonal split in it. The house was built in 1924. The beam size is : 5-1/4" x 7-1/4" x 35 1/2' long. The split is located about 2-1/2' from where it rests on the end of the foundation. Is there a way that I can properly repair this myself? Looking up from underneath the beam the split runs from the outside edge diagonally toward the foundation wall and almost (within 1-1/2") to the other side of the beam. The split is about 33" long. Is there a way to fasten this firmly together? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.

Hi, I'm sorry, I am not normally obtuse, but I cannot visualize your problem. Are you saying the split is running parallel in a single beam? Could you possibly post a photo to Picasa or photobucket and put the link here?

Yes, the odds are excellent that you can repair it yourself, I just need to know precisely what needs repaired. Thanks so much.

Connie

This is a picture of the main bean in the basement, near the North wall.

http://picasaweb.google.com/djyalways/MainBeam/photo#5178877748359616626

Looks like some settling going on. Are all the walls above the beam plumb and the floors level?

Great picture, thanks. The beam on top looks to be all right. Did this crack occur recently, all at once, or has it been gradual?

Mike's question is the most relevant...do you notice any sag in the floor upstairs?

I don't notice any sagging. as far as plumb, I am not sure as to how to check it. I really never looked at this area. It was hidden from view by shelving and I onlyrecently became interested in this kind of stuff. I would like suggestions as to the best way to fix this. Thanks.

Good morning,

To check for plumb, press a carpenter level against the wall.

It's important to know what caused the crack. Most often, when wood cracks, it is jut house settling...the wood is old an brittle. But, usually it only cracks in one direction. The crack in your beam appears to start at the top and wrap around. Because the crack is in a support beam, I think I would get a structural engineer to have a look at it and give his recommendation.

You should be able to get assistance from the building code department in your county.

I normally would suggest you have a steel plate fabricated to span the length of the crack, then support with a lally column, but I am not an engineer, and do not wish to give you anything but the best advice.

Perhaps someone more knowledgeable will have a better answer for you. If you get the opinion of an engineer, please post back here. Thanks so much!