Removing a pole in basement

I couldn't find a better section to post this question. Some may think I crazy for even think of doing this. But I know it can be done and I just visited a friends house for the first time that had it done. I just want to get the opinion and pictures if possible of persons that had it done. Honestly from what i saw at his house I was surprised as to how simple the process looked (well for a handy man). But I wanted to know how others have done it and there method involved in doing so.

His consisted of a 6x4 on each end supporting a beam comprised of 3 2x12's with plywood in between (for more support and to give the correct thickness to equal the width of the 6 x 4 beams). Then they were all held together with many bolts and construction adhesive. then the new beam was attached with large "L" like brackets to the old steel I beam right next to it. And also tied into the floor joists also with lag screws and L brackets.The only thing I would have trouble doing myself is the removal of the old steel pole. I am quite the handy man and do every project I can on my own (with help if need) But I lack the proper tools sometimes which usually is my biggest issue that hold me back when tackling a project.

Thanks in advance

TJ

 

The easy part is removing the support pole. The hard part is reinforcing the beam to carry the load, and knowing how much reinforcement is needed. If that is your plan, you should consult an engineer. Adding steel support definitely adds strength, but getting a steel beam into a basement and moving it in place is not a simple task. Wood is easier to handle, but you need more of it and properly done to support the existing beam.

 

It's alot easier to simply box in the pole. You can go with plain boards or route them to make decorative. Decorative fillers can also be used. There are decorative columns available that could encase the pole.

 

I think the poster has an existing steel beam and wants to add an additional built up beam so that he can remove a lolly post.

There was no mention of span in the OP. That will determine if the planned beam can support the load. IMO- Bad idea unless an engineer concurs that the beam size is adequate for the span.

 

Thanks, but it's not an issue of looks but functionality; in other words it's in the way. I am a pool player and bought a house that my wife realy wanted. I am however without the nice rec room I worked so hard on building at our old house. So I started to put the table together anyway inspite of the basement being unfinished and a pole in the way.

 

I will get detailed measurements tonight, along with the existing amount of post/poles there are.

 

You need to talk to an engineer about this.

 

Ok here are the pictures and specs I said I'd get. Sorry so long.

The total span of the basement is 44 feet. The width across I didn't measure but I'd guess about 21 feet. The beam is a 8" with 3 columns/post which makes it about 11 feet span in between each one. I will also add the house is a one story ranch




Please let me know what you think.

 

Removing a support pole is never a good Idea. The poles were designed buy an engineer or architecht who drew the plans, they are specifically laid out with specialized footings poured under them.

Having an engineer, or architecht would be the only way of knowing for sure, no one will be able to tell you on a forum based on pictures.

There is a lot of risk in removing a support column and it is not recommended.