Originally Posted By: roconnor This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Sorry this one got posted late today … had computer problems this morning. Here is the last Structure question for this week, and Dave/Gerry will pick up with another topic tomorrow.
– 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
Originally Posted By: roconnor This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
My gut reaction would be that the (3) 2x10 girder is somewhat undersized for that span ... even (3) 2x12's would be light. If you look up the (3) 2x10 girder in the IRC for a two-story 28' wide house (Table R502.5.2 as a guide), it would have an allowable span of only 5'-4" ... not a lot. Anytime you see triple wood girders spanning over like 6' to 7' should be a mind flag to look closer or call for an evaluation (Harry Homeowner may have removed posts to get more room).
However, looking up member sizes is beyond a home inspection, so I think a reasonable answer would also be ... C. No visual defects were observed on the main basement wood beams ... because other that the large span, there are no obvious indications of a problem noted.
Also be sure there are no thin metal plates between the wood pieces, which significantly increases the strength and allowable span (flitch beam) ... 
-- 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
