Architecture - Steel I-Beam size
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rdtague
12-31-08, 01:56 PM
I having a Modular home, which is 28'x60', put on a basement. It, obviously, has a marriage line down the center, which is supported by column supports in the basement. The manufacturer calls for these supports(8 of them all total)to be placed approx. every 5-7'. I would like to replace these supports with 2-30' steel I-Beams, supported on each end. This would open my floor plans up in the basement. But I'm unsure what size I-beams to use. I know I can contact the home manufacturer or a steel company to get the size of I-Beam, but this is New Years weekend and everybody is closed and it'll drive me nuts all weekend unless I get some type of idea if this is possible. I'm thinking something like a 12x12 or 14x14. I'm sure I'm not the only one who has thought of this. Any ideas?
Speedwrench
12-31-08, 03:46 PM
check out a gluelam wood beam, i think you will find that they can be sized to a thinner profile height wise to give you more head room than a steel beam for the load.
life begins when the kids leave home and the dog dies
life begins when the kids leave home and the dog dies
pmgca
12-31-08, 05:06 PM
Hi rdtague,
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
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