1989gta

My wife asked me to open a wall that separates our kitchen from our living room, this also includes an opening to the stairwell.The opening is 11.5 ft long. This wall is perpendicular to the roof supports above.
Directly below there is a metal I beam that runs the length of the house. On one side of the wall the beam sits on the block wall and two feet beyond the other side the beam is supported by a steel post.

i plan on using a veneer beam to replace the studs is 2x12 my only option?

Also is there anything i need to do below?

1989gta

photos of the post

1989gta

here are photo's from the other side



i would also like to remove the structure above the stairs

glennjanie

Hello GTA:
No, 2 X 12s are not the only way to go. You could also use a glue-laminated beam, whether bought or made on site.
Be sure to install temporary bearing near the wall to keep the roof from collapsing when you take the wall out.
Glenn

1989gta

glen thanks for the response.

for the laminated beam would the dimensions be the same as using two 2x12's nailed together. I'm looking for something that would give me the most over head room.

nick

glennjanie

Hello Nick:
Yes, the height of the beam could be made the same as 2 X 12s. Use 2 X 4s to make the beam and it will be the same thickness as a stud.
Glenn

1989gta

i'm less concerned about the product and more concerned with the amount of headroom i'm sacrificing is there something that would allow me 10 or even 8 inches of space from the ceiling? I plan on removing the top plate to save myself 1.5 inches sinking the beam slightly into the ceiling.

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nick

East_Texas

How about an 8" steel I-beam. Probably take en engineer to do the calculations, but may work. There are even 6" tall ones available.

1989gta

after discussing our options with the wife were going to go with a laminated beam and wrap it in Brazilian cherry to match the wood floor border.

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nick

triple D

You might want to cut the drywall back about a foot from the wall on the kitchen ceiling. That way you can get an idea on whats up there. You may be able to stuff the beam up to the floor sheeting above, then use some simpson hangers on joists. It looks about a 10' or better span. Better go big on beam, its also supporting stair risers. Maybe a laminated 4x10, 0r 12. Better consult a pro, you dont want any setbacks on this job. Good luck...

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