Temporary Wall Support 1

[r2k]

I have a project in which a client wants to cut an opening in a concrete wall between two existing structures. The wall supports second floor and roof structures, so it carries a pretty good load. The plan is to place a steel support beam in the opening(s), however, I am looking for suggestions on how to temporarily support the wall during demolition and beam installation.

The wall is approx 8" thick.

I was thinking that the wall could be partially cut with a conc. saw on both sides, steel angles inserted and supported with steel posts placed every 2 - 3' (what ever calcs out) which angle away from the base to allow room to demo and ultimately place the beam under the angles.

I am looking for simpler or better ideas.

r2k

 

[jheidt2543]

You don't mention how wide the opening is going to be. I've seen openings upto 4' cut without shoring, BUT it depends on loading.

I've seen your first method done in the field and it works. You must size the angles for the loading and span. The 2'-3' column spacing seems to close to me, I think you could compute a 4'-6' spacing, depending on loading.

The alternative is to install "needle" beams perpedicular through the wall supported on columns at a spacing of 4'-6'. Again, sized to meet the loading and span.

 

[r2k]

Thank you jheidt2543 for the response.

The opening is to be 30 or 40 feet dependent upon the clients decision on paying extra for cost of material and/or buildability (heavy steel beam to span that distance).

 

[flamby]

Opening of that size in a load bearing wall is not only unusual, but it also beats the sense of engineering. Such a heavy beam can perhaps be designed (with very less deflection), but there is no way to install it without damaging the structure above.

Explain this to the architect.

 

[jheidt2543]

r2k:

Does the opening have to be clear span? As flamby notes, it would take a BIG beam and you would also have to deal with support for the beam end reactions. It is possible to do it, but the question to ask your architect is, is it worth the $$$$$?

 

[r2k]

Thanks to all for the advice. The Client has settled on a 30' opening with a center support (15' span). So if anyone has any additional ideas for temporary support during construction, I would appreciate the help

r2k

 

[JJF]

r2k

Be careful you know the original intent of the concrete wall. Could it be there for a diaphragm brace of the building? If so, your new framing would need to take the loading.

JJF

 

[TFL]

i second jjf don't forget about lateral stability i just went today to look at taking out a about 80 feet of wall between two stores at a strip mall. we are going to replace the shear wall with steel braces and steel beams