Steel I-Beam size


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Old 12-31-08, 12:56 PM
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Steel I-Beam size

I having a Modular home, which is 28'x60', put on a basement. It, obviously, has a marriage line down the center, which is supported by column supports in the basement. The manufacturer calls for these supports(8 of them all total)to be placed approx. every 5-7'. I would like to replace these supports with 2-30' steel I-Beams, supported on each end. This would open my floor plans up in the basement. But I'm unsure what size I-beams to use. I know I can contact the home manufacturer or a steel company to get the size of I-Beam, but this is New Years weekend and everybody is closed and it'll drive me nuts all weekend unless I get some type of idea if this is possible. I'm thinking something like a 12x12 or 14x14. I'm sure I'm not the only one who has thought of this. Any ideas?
 
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Old 12-31-08, 02:46 PM
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check out a gluelam wood beam, i think you will find that they can be sized to a thinner profile height wise to give you more head room than a steel beam for the load.

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Old 12-31-08, 04:06 PM
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Hi rdtague,

For your own safety (and your family's), let me explain some issues, starting with the building codes
As we all know, there are building codes, but each state / province has its own version / adaptation. An Architect, Engineer, etc must elaborate the interpretation / application of the Building codes, calculation of structures and foundations, for each project, etc. Not only for the technical understanding of these issues, but for the liability.
An advice regarding a technical subject (something basic as the beam dimension and independent if you are paid for this advice or not) implies liability.
Follow a structural advice provided through Internet is DANGEROUS
Structures / materials are quite different depending the characteristics of the project, load, soil / topography, wind conditions and seismic calculations.
Certainly, if you don't know these answers, then it is not a DIY task so I'd recommend a consultation with an structural engineer in order to analyze the whole situation
 
 

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