Originally Posted By: rsonneson This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
I think more information is needed. what is the clear span of the lam beam? Is that span within engineered limits? Is a pier needed? Just because there is a pier there does not mean that the lam beam needs it. perhaps framing materials changed and during the process and that accounts for the misplacement of piers? Just a idea, dont jump to conclusions with all the information
Originally Posted By: rcooke This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
How much time can you spend on each item in your inspection . To simple there is something is wrong identify it write it up and move on .
Further evaluation by qualified person. End of story .
We find concerns, we do not tell them how to fix.
If you continue to take 4 hours for an inspection you are spending to much time on to many things . I normally run just under three hours start to drive out .Roy Cooke sr
Originally Posted By: roconnor This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
I agree with Jeff that it looks like there is a joint in the glu-lam girder at the pier, and therefore that is a critical support. Looks like a wood hack post next to the pier to “fix” the problem too …
Be very careful about crossing the "evaluation" line which can get you in trouble. Look for visual indications of sagging members (there shouldn't be any pronounced deflection of structural members in a home), check for flexibility (bounce) and significant floor slope, and look for signs of improper construction and deterioration from a visual examination and limited probing.
Even if there wasn't a joint there, it is well beyond a home inspection to determine adequate girder support spacing (particularly for engineered lumber like glu-lams where rules of thumb don't apply). If there is a large pier present it must be assumed it is a needed support ... particularly for new construction.
Red flag it as in need of evaluation and probable repair, and move on.
-- Robert O'Connor, PE
Eagle Engineering ?
Eagle Eye Inspections ?
NACHI Education Committee
I am absolutely amazed sometimes by how much thought goes into doing things wrong