We're removing a loadbearing wall downstairs and need to get the correct size RSJ - the only problem is that the ceilings are quite low so we need the smallest we can possibly get away with. The span is 3.900, the wall above is single brick - 2.400 high with a standard doorway. We're wondering if we can get away with 4.200 x 152 x 102. Any boffins out there able to help please?!
RSJ calculation
- Thread starter AnnT
- Start date
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Have you established as to whether any floor joists sit on this wall or not?
If the answer is no, then although the building work may be more complicated, the upside is that the beam may bit fitted so that it is hidden in the ceiling space.
If the answer is no, then although the building work may be more complicated, the upside is that the beam may bit fitted so that it is hidden in the ceiling space.
Yes, unfortunately they do. If only things were that easy eh?
Even if joists are sitting on the wall which the OP has now confirmed) it is still possible to get the beam up into the floor zone albeit more complicated still.
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There is no Universal Beam size of 152 x 102; the nearest to this is 152 x 89.
Unfortunately, that would probably not suffice for the span and loading you mentioned, particularly if it is also supporting a floor as well as the wall. The
smallest beam I think you could get away with is a 152 x 152 x 23 Universal Column section.
This still doesn't address your headroom problem with regard to the floor joists. In these situations, it is sometimes possible to cut the timber joists individually and support each off joist hangers, which are in turn supported off the steel.
This is laborious, and you may have to prop the wall from above the bedroom floor, which is messy, and also prop the floor each side of the wall.
You really need to speak with an engineer; also, it is a Building Control matter with which the Council should be involved.
Unfortunately, that would probably not suffice for the span and loading you mentioned, particularly if it is also supporting a floor as well as the wall. The
smallest beam I think you could get away with is a 152 x 152 x 23 Universal Column section.
This still doesn't address your headroom problem with regard to the floor joists. In these situations, it is sometimes possible to cut the timber joists individually and support each off joist hangers, which are in turn supported off the steel.
This is laborious, and you may have to prop the wall from above the bedroom floor, which is messy, and also prop the floor each side of the wall.
You really need to speak with an engineer; also, it is a Building Control matter with which the Council should be involved.
Thanks Tony, I suppose it does make sense.
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