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Re: Load Calculation for an I-Beam

From: jhopkins@above.net
Category: Structural
Remote Name: 64.124.245.99
Date: 26 Oct 2005
Time: 10:29 AM

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Question: I am building an addition to my house. The addition will be 24 x 36 with a garage at basement level and a Cape Cod style room on top. The first level will be all open family room. The second floor will have two bedrooms and no bathroom. The roof will be a 12/12 pitch with a 50 pound snow load. I currently have a beam on the main house which is 4" x 8" x 36' on same floor pattern. Can I use the same load style beam for my addition and, if I can, what is the lb/ft I must order? Kind Regards, Jeff Hopkins.

Builders Websource® Answer: Dear Jeff. Without seeing a loading diagram, including all other loads from the 2nd floor and roof, it's not possible to recommend the appropriate beam size for your project. Many factors such as floor stiffness also play into the calculation. In addition to snow load, wind and seismic loads may also factor in to the computation. Furthermore, making sure you transfer the load properly to the foundation is just as important. We urge you to consult a licensed structural engineer to evaluate your plans first-hand and provide you with the recommended beam dimensions, mechanical fastening details, column sizing, joist sizing/spacing, and foundation load analysis.

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