Wood Beam

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.

resident2

in General Discussion 8 years and 5 months ago

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Guest User | 8 years and 6 months ago

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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.

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….

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.

Solomonsmines33 | 8 years and 6 months ago

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

Guest User | 8 years and 5 months ago

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Thanks.

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.

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.