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Renovating an old home, help me!

TheClock

Active member
Joined
Mar 25, 2025
Messages
26
City & State/Province
North Carolina
Guys, I'm in charge of renovating my family's old house, it's two houses put together, so it's a bit of a weird setup. Right now, there's one adjustable metal column holding up the end of a big wooden beam. It's 15 feet long, and about 4 feet of the end isn't properly supported.
There's also another column really close by, but it's supporting a rotten beam that'll be replaced with a stronger LVL beam. There's also another beam supported by a weak 4x4 post. I don't think the building inspector will approve the current setup.
Does anyone know where to find strong, good-quality support columns? I don't care if it's a little expensive, I just need the best quality. And what's the best way to install them?
I understand tht I need to dig out the floor and put in concrete footings. What if I use those cardboard tube forms for the footings, can it still pass inspection? Hit me with your thoughts people!
 
Guys, I'm in charge of renovating my family's old house, it's two houses put together, so it's a bit of a weird setup. Right now, there's one adjustable metal column holding up the end of a big wooden beam. It's 15 feet long, and about 4 feet of the end isn't properly supported.
There's also another column really close by, but it's supporting a rotten beam that'll be replaced with a stronger LVL beam. There's also another beam supported by a weak 4x4 post. I don't think the building inspector will approve the current setup.
Does anyone know where to find strong, good-quality support columns? I don't care if it's a little expensive, I just need the best quality. And what's the best way to install them?
I understand tht I need to dig out the floor and put in concrete footings. What if I use those cardboard tube forms for the footings, can it still pass inspection? Hit me with your thoughts people!
Steel or precast concrete options are reliable and widely available at most construction supply stores for strong, high quality support columns. When installing, ensure the footings are deep enough to handle the load and use a level to keep everything aligned. Cardboard tube forms can work for footings but they need to be removed above grade to avoid moisture or pest issues.
 
Guys, I'm in charge of renovating my family's old house, it's two houses put together, so it's a bit of a weird setup. Right now, there's one adjustable metal column holding up the end of a big wooden beam. It's 15 feet long, and about 4 feet of the end isn't properly supported.
There's also another column really close by, but it's supporting a rotten beam that'll be replaced with a stronger LVL beam. There's also another beam supported by a weak 4x4 post. I don't think the building inspector will approve the current setup.
Does anyone know where to find strong, good-quality support columns? I don't care if it's a little expensive, I just need the best quality. And what's the best way to install them?
I understand tht I need to dig out the floor and put in concrete footings. What if I use those cardboard tube forms for the footings, can it still pass inspection? Hit me with your thoughts people!
This project sounds very challenging and interesting! However, given the unusual structure and the existing support issues, it would be wise to consult with a structural engineer before you start any major work. They can assess the loads and recommend the best column placement and footing size, which will definitely help with the building inspection. For hiqh-quality columns, reputable construction supply companies or steel fabrication shops in your area should likely have adjustable steel columns with good load ratings. or the footings, Sonotubes are common and generally accepted, as long as they meet the local building codes for size and depth.
 
For the install, yep, dig down and pour proper concrete footings. The sonotube cardboard forms work great and definitely pass inspection if they're sized right and the inspector sees proper rebar and depth.
 
I totally agree,sonotubes are great for getting solid footings. Inspectors usually like them as long as you follow the right depth, rebar, and sizing guidelines. Have you tried using them for any taller structurse or ones that need to support a lot of wieght?
 
Go with steel or heavy duty adjustable columns rated for the load. Dig proper footings, cardboard forms are fine if you pour good concrete and size it correctly
Thought to add this
 
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