Replacing lumber beam with LVL Question
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Posted by: Towona ®

11/29/2006, 23:41:09

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I'm interested in replacing the existing support beam running the length of my house. (Single story bungalow). The beam is 4 4x8's sandwiched and nailed toghether. It is supported by 4" dia steel jack-posts at 10' spans. I'd like to replace this beam with a LVL beam, increase the span and open up the basement. I'm looking to determine what depth I need if I use a doubled up 2" (not sure exact width they come in) LVL for a 16'/18'/20' span, and provide a similar (or greater) strength/stiffness as the current setup. Any help would be appreciated.







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Re: Replacing lumber beam with LVL
Re: Replacing lumber beam with LVL -- Towona Post Reply Top of thread Forum
Posted by: Kelly Bramble ®

11/30/2006, 09:27:41

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First, you need to know what kind of wood, then determine the strength characteristics. After you know what it is, the easiest thing to do is determine your replacement structural member of equivalent or preferably stronger. Chances are, you will need a rather huge beam to support the load without the 10' support spans. You also need to know the estimated deflections of the original beam as you don't want sagging in the middle. Removing the 10" support beams sounds aggresive

Then the real engineering starts. You are going to need a solid plan on how to replace this beam. Clearly, this beam supports a lot of load. I would realy like to see you come back to this forum and ask more questions.

I would get a local engineer (PE) involved to verify all calculations, replacment material, and review the plan to replace the existing beam.








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