Cutting an opening in a CMU wall

[reesecc66]

We are doing a remodel at our church that consists of cutting a large opening in a CMU load bearing wall. My question is in regards to supporting the bricks above the opening during demo before we set in our steel supporting beam and column.

Bricks are 6 1/8" wide and the wall is about 10' high. We would like the opening to be 7.5' tall x 16' wide.

What, if any, is the best way to support the bricks above the opening during demo?

Thanks

 

[racookpe1978]

It's a load-bearing wall. What has your contractor/engineer said about the "load" that needs to supported. It sounds like you're only asking about the bricks (the masonry) falling down into the new opening as if they were the problem.

Or are you describing the problem as if the entire wall might fail because the load remains, but the masonry are being removed?

 

[KootK]

Needle beams are one popular alternative. DIY church renovations are notorious for falling down during construction. Please do ensure that you have competent design and construction help if any of this is outside of your normal area of practice.

I like to debate structural engineering theory -- a lot. If I challenge you on something, know that I'm doing so because I respect your opinion enough to either change it or adopt it.

 

[reesecc66]

@racookpe1978: As far as the load goes, we will be able to support it because we have access to the joists. So my questions is definitely in regards to the masonry falling/collapsing from it's own weight as we demo the wall.

@KootK: Thanks for the comment about the church renovation fails! We are definitely discussing contracting this out to take care of this issue.

We've looked at and brainstormed quite a few options just wanted to have some more eyes on it.

Thanks

 

[mixgas]

hi first time post here you will need the structural eng calcs for the doads in KN this will allow you to design the tempoary works i would not space your needles any greater than 750mm apart but be aware acro props are only good for about 12 KN AND IF ANY THING WAS TO GO AMISS IF YOU DONT HAVE A DESINED TEMPOARY WORK AND INSUREANCE YOU ARE TAKEING A BIG RISK aslo i would lace an brace the props with scafold tubes fingers crossed and a prayer to god wont cut it lol oh and fit temp wooden boards between the steel needles to stop any loose brickwork falling down between the needles good luck mixgas

 

[THT]

Note to self: never post drunk with caps lock engaged.