Replies

1. 
   Guest_ | Jun 23, 1999 08:59am | #1

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   Calculating loads on simple beams isn't all that complicated. But, they can sometimes get real messy.

   How about an example ?

   Let's say you have a 20' wide house, with a center beam. Posts are 14' on center under the beam. (I'm using easy numbers so I don't have to get a calculator) For design loads, we'll use 40 PSF live load, and 15 PSF deadload, for a 55# total load.

   The beam will carry half the load from the floor system, assuming we have no roof loads. So we have 10' times 40 PSF, which gets us 400 PLF live load on the beam. For total load, we would multiply 55 PSF times the 10' span, of 550 PLF on the beam.

   Looking at your chart, a 5 1/2" by 9 1/2" beam will carry 608 PLF total load, or 405 PLF live load. You'll also notice that a 3 1/2" by 11 7/8" beam will carry 784 PLF total load, and 527 PLF live load. The extra depth gives it stiffness, and it would probably be the best choice.

   One caution I would throw in here - Beam specs vary a lot from one manufacturer to the next. Don't swap beam brands around.

   I'm not generally into pummeling people, but one last thing to keep in mind. Figuring a beam isn't that hard. But you have to know enough to know when you're in over your head, and need help. If you get into long beam spans, combination roof and floor loads, or anything out of the ordinary, don't be afraid to ask for help. Whomever sells beams should know where to get help from.

1. 
   Guest_ | Jun 24, 1999 07:27am | #2

   *Thanks for not pummeling me Ron,The "load per lineal foot" had me second guessing the obvious since loads seem to be usually in pounds per square foot.10-4 on the brand changes...Never afraid to ask for help, and thanks again,Dan