Expert: Stephen Major (Owner--Major Design Group) - 6/5/2007

Question
I am in the process of removing my rear deck so that I can pour concrete in its place.  My question relates to the porch support beams.  I will need to remove the existing porch beams, cut them to the correct length and install post bases when the new slab is poured.  Then reinstall the posts.  Pouring the slab in sections is not an option due to the fact I have to hire a pumper.  Scheduling multiple pours would be cost prohibitive.  Since my new slab will extend about 1' beyond the post and beam line I'm having trouble figuring out how to temporarily support the beams.  The maximum load I have on any single post is <3,000#.  Therefore, the load on any single temporary support post is <1500#. However, the angle of the support member is my concern.  Any ideas?

Answer
Steve,

I posted a sketch on our website of how we have done this same procedure.

Go to:

http://www.stephenmajor.com/porchsupport.html

and follow link.

Please let me know if this is helpful, and if you have additional questions.

--Steve Major