Load Bearing Beam

[Shaun28]

I wish to open up a room by removing an internal wall. The wall is load bearing.

How do I select/calculate a suitable I beam size? Is there a table anywhere as there is for floor joist?

The wall is 4.5 m wide. The opening will be 2m wide.

Any suggestions?

Thanks in anticipation

 

[cheltonian]

I have just done a similar type of job last week.

By law you will need Building Regs. I would recommend a structural engineer as well, who will do the calcs for you.

Beyond that i would reccommend you get a builder in.

 

[JohnD]

If you do the calc yourself (you may find something useful on the website of a manufacturer or supplier of lintels and RSJs) then include it in the drawings and specs you submit to tour Local Authority; if they think you've got it wrong they will tell you what they think you need.
It's best to do it to building Inspectors agreement, otherwise he might make you rip it out and start again.

I've always found them very helpful and willing to make suggestions, they see dozens of these jobs in houses just like yours every day.

BTW when you knock down the old load-bearing wall, the top of the house will fall down unless you stop it.