Posted by jsexton – October 22, 2006 9:10 PM
When you remove load bearing walls (we're taking out three), you have to provide serious support for the areas where the walls previously stood. Otherwise, you weaken the structure of your home. And, worst case scenario, your upstairs comes tumbling down.
Our crew is using LVL beams, or laminated veneer lumber, to provide the new support (and one steel I-beam for an extra heavy area). LVLs are amazing products; they're thin sheets of wood laminate that are glued then bolted together. The resulting support beam is stronger than natural lumber, and very, very heavy. By using these LVLs, we're able to create the open floor plan without having several columns between each room.
Here's an LVL beam, up close and personal.
Here's another shot for perspective. Maggie and the LVLs are in our garage.
Next up: The LVLs are installed.
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At first, our architect only wanted to use support columns, but we insisted he use the LVL beam. We told him our neighbors used the super beam and were very happy with the outcome. We will be starting our kitchen and diningroom renovation in 4 weeks.
Posted by Bobbi – October 23, 2006 7:56 PM
Glad to hear the LVL beam has worked out for you. Keep us up to date on how your renovation is coming along.
Posted by Jim Sexton – October 23, 2006 8:44 PM
According to my experience if you take out a bearing wall and weaken the structure you may not notice any difference. At least not in the first 2 years. Then the ceiling starts to be more and more curved if the support is inadequate. You can of course install columns then.
Posted by Byta Luckor – October 27, 2006 4:19 AM
