We are going to have our 100 year-old home lifted off the existing foundation and a new foundation put in with a full basement (currently only 1/3 basement w/crawlspace) in the next few weeks. Since the home is going to be lifted, we think we're probably going to need to replace the main supporting beam. It is currently sitting on the foundation wall in 3 locations and is also supported with concrete block sitting on the dirt in the crawlspace. (The block was put into place because the original wooden piers rotted away). I was originally thinking about steel for the beam, but I'm having a harder time finding that. Our local lumberyard actually carries LVL in stock. Just wondering what everyone thinks of the pros and cons of steel vs. wood for our main beam ? Thanks.

Has anyone had experience with replacing flooring/subflooring due to cat urine odor? We're thinking of purchasing a home that has cat urine odor through out the house. The carpet is obviously damaged but what should I look for to see if we have to replace the subfloor? I think there is plank flooring underneath. thanks