Not sure this is the correct thread for the my question, but since it involves structural integrity, might be the best place.
I have a finished ceiling in the stairway going into my basement and there is a low area at the bottom due to the composite I-beam which runs across it. This beam is supposed on both sides by load bearing walls. If I were to add 3/4 plywood to either side of the beam, using liquid nails and screws to secure to both sides, could I cut into the beam and remove the bottom 1/2 of the beam (about 6”) to increase headspace? I would only do this in the stairwell area. If this isn’t appropriate, what are some other suggested fixes? Photos of the stairway attached along with a photo of a beam from another location for reference.
I have a finished ceiling in the stairway going into my basement and there is a low area at the bottom due to the composite I-beam which runs across it. This beam is supposed on both sides by load bearing walls. If I were to add 3/4 plywood to either side of the beam, using liquid nails and screws to secure to both sides, could I cut into the beam and remove the bottom 1/2 of the beam (about 6”) to increase headspace? I would only do this in the stairwell area. If this isn’t appropriate, what are some other suggested fixes? Photos of the stairway attached along with a photo of a beam from another location for reference.