Wood Beam

We have a huge, original wood beam in the basement of our 1899 Brooklyn brownstone. It’s actually 2 beams, 20 ft each sitting end-to-end running the length of the house. Our architect recommends replacing it with a steel beam to increase clearance. The wood appears to be in excellent condition. It seems a shame to throw it away. Are there people who buy these beams and reuse them? Is it possible that the beam is worth something? Thanks for advice or referrals.

Guest User | 8 years and 6 months ago

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resident2 | 8 years and 5 months ago

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Yes, over the years I have replaced a few with wood. You need an experienced Structural carpenter to do it, preferably someone that works with Brownstones.

daveinbedstuy | 8 years and 5 months ago

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Laminated veneer lumber (LVL) beams are wood but they likely would be even higher.

gemby | 8 years and 5 months ago

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Resident2, that is an interesting point about the wood/steel clash. When a wood beam does need to be replaced (due to rotting or termites) are they ever replaced with new wood? Seems like its always steel.

Guest User | 8 years and 5 months ago

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Thanks.

Solomonsmines33 | 8 years and 5 months ago

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You might try these guys: http://sawkil.com

Guest User | 8 years and 6 months ago

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Thanks. Actually we’re going to evacuate as well. But we might need to replace the beam to get the clearance we need. I hear you about steel vs. wood – appreciate the perspective.

resident2 | 8 years and 6 months ago

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If there is nothing wrong with your beam, why change it? IMHO it would be better to excavate if you want more height in your cellar.
Replacing a wooden beam with a steal beam creates a clash. Your wooden joists and the rest of your Brownstone structure will constantly move with temperature changes, humidity changes etc. A new steel beam will not move as much or in the same way; it remains hard & ridged. Eventually it will show its stiff ugly self throughout the house.
Your architect is looking for a job, that you do not need. Or your architect is an architect that does not understand historic houses and their settling ways….