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QUESTION: I am removing a first floor 2x6 bearing wall that supports the 2nd floor & roof. Span is approx 12'. Do I need to install LVL beam supported by king & jack studs or can I marry 2 or 3 2x10's or 2x12's ?
ANSWER: Hi Bob,
Is there a basement below? If so, what is supporting the bearing wall? If not, what is the bearing wall setting on? That's a lot of weight to distribute.
You can install a beam made up of 3 or 4 2"x12" joists but they should be bolted together at each end and approx. 2'o.c. staggered. Use a thru-bolt, not a lag screw. You can recess the head and nut if you are going to trim the beam. Be sure the beam has ample bearing at each end - min. of 4". The ends should have columns bearing on a reinforced footing. A solid beam of steel would be better. Check with your local building codes to see if there are any exceptions or special requirements.
I hope this has been helpful.
Roger
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QUESTION: There is a basement beneath the first floor, and its constructed of a block wall sitting on a foundation. The project calls for removing the bearing wall and reinstall a arched wall in its place to open up one room to another.The ends of the arched walls or particians may or may not land on the basement floor joist which rest on the block wall, if so I plan to install 6x6 blocks in the cavity between the joists to transfer the weight to the block wall. Do you also reccomend rim board between the 2x12's ? and lastly must I bolt the header together or can I use heavy screws or lag bolts ? I can countersink one end of a bolt but not the nut and washer end.
Hello Bob,
I think I get the picture. The 1st floor joists are parallel to the bearing wall. Usually a bearing wall sets on a pair of joists. The 6" x 6" blocks may not be adequate. I suggest you insert 1 or 2 joists under the wall.
I recommend bolts but heavy duty lag screws will be OK if you stagger screws on both sides of the new beam.
Lots of luck with your project.
Roger
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Answers by Expert:
Roger Zona
Expertise
I am experienced in all types of construction: residential, industrial and commercial; single family, multi-family, mid-rise and high rise buildings (16 story office building) as well as remodeling, additions and tenant improvements. I can field most any question that relates to general construction. I have consulted with infrastructure (utility) contractors also and have a good general knowledge of underground utility construction for subdivisions and commercial projects.
Experience
After college, I began my career in the construction industry. I chose to become an apprentice Architect and 4 yrs later I opened my own architectural design firm. Six years later I moved to Florida to buy & develop land and build. I became a State of Florida Certified General Contractor and operated my business for 45 years. I built all types of residential and commercial buildings including warehouses, shopping centers, high rise apartments and office buildings and developed sites for other contractors. I retired and became a consultant to the construction industry. I maintain my license and continuing education requirements, operate a small construction company and write a weekly newspaper column for the Palm Beach Post (a Cox publication) with the byline "Ask The Contractor". I am the "technical editor" for a publisher of books that relate to home maintenance.
Organizations
Previously - NAHA
Currently - FLCA (Florida Licensed Contractors Assoc.)
Publications
Palm Beach Post newspaper - weekly Q & A column
Happy Herald monthly real estate publication - monthly column
Education/Credentials
Michigan State University
University of Detroit
BS in Engineering
Past/Present Clients
I built a home in Palm Beach for a member of the Pulitzer Family.
I was responsible for the completion of a twin hi-rise condominium project for G.E. Credit.
I was a partner in the successful development of a P.U.D. (Planned Urban Development) subdivision.
I represented the largest home builder from France (Bati Service, S.A.) in the development of a subdivision and the design and construction of the homes.
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