Expert: Dave Johnson - 1/21/2009

Question
I own a raised ranch with a small attic.Our downstairs is a finished basement. In the tv/bar area there is a column right in the middle and makes it hard to place furniture. I wanted to move it but the space between it and the foundation would be about 14 1/2 feet. There's nothing heavy above it, just a hallway. Can I do it?

Answer
Hi Jason,
You really shouldn't remove it.

However, If the beam is still exposed and easy to get to, you could "sister" another2"x whatever on either side and make sure that they are coninuous and go to bearing on both ends.
THEN you could remove it.

If this is not clear, mail me back...
Dave