Main load-bearing beams support the weight of an entire floor or roof. These beams are long and bulky, and they often become infested by termites if the structure isn't protected against bugs. If your load-bearing beam becomes infested, you must replace it. Expect to spend one to two days bracing, removing and replacing a load-bearing beam, depending on the size and scope of the project.
Instructions
1. Brace the floor or ceiling that rests on the termite infested beam. Build temporary two-by-four walls, and place them on each side of the beam. Measure the span between the ceiling and floor or floor and basement, and frame two temporary walls that correspond to this height. Insert 3-inch wood screws through the top of the temporary walls to hold them in place.
2. Cut away the termite-infested beam with a reciprocating saw. Cut nails and screws through to separate the beam from any structure to which it may be attached. Cut the beam into sections so as to break it into manageable pieces. Pry the beam away with a pry bar with care, so as not to damage any surrounding structure.
3. Spray all surrounding wooden structure with termite controlling solution, saturating the structure to kill all remaining termites. Allow the chemical to dry before proceeding.
4. Cut the beam to full length, and place two-by-fours flat on the top and bottom of the beam to serve as nailers and extra support. Tap the beam upright into the old slot where the rotted beam once rested. Attach the new beam to the ceiling or floor joist with 3-inch screws by inserting the screws through the top of the beam at an angle and into the joists above. Attach 4-inch metal roll flashing to the bottom of the beam using 1-inch roofing nails to prevent future infestation.
5. Remove the temporary bracing from of the beam gently to allow the overhead joists to rest on the new beam. Pay attention to the overhead floor or ceiling joists as you remove the temporary support to ensure that the new beam is working.
Tags: , bottom beam, ceiling floor, each side, each side beam