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Question regarding a hole in a load bearing beam
Last Post 25 Sep 2013 04:57 PM by Scott Southworth. 2 Replies.
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james moser
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Posts:1

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22 Aug 2013 11:12 AM
    A home inspection has revealed that a hole has been drilled through a support beam in the garage of a home. It appears to have been done when the home was built over 20 years ago. While the home inspector didn't believe it was an issue, he suggested it be viewed by a professional.

    I plan to hire an engineer to review and assess, but I was hoping to get a preliminary assessment from experts in the field.

    Bedroom sit directly above the beam.

    Please see attached images.

    beam.jpg

    jwd217
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    05 Sep 2013 08:45 AM
    According to an Architectural book I have, a hole in a suppot beam is permissable if it is no larger than 2" and at least 2" from the edge. Yours may be a little larger than that but it looks to me to be okay.


    Scott Southworth
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    25 Sep 2013 04:57 PM
    Building Codes allows for holes to be put into load bearing beams, particularly in the middle portion of the beam such as you have shown. You should be able to find a copy of a recent edition if the International Building Code or the International Residential Code at your local library. Those should provide should outline the allowable penetrations for the beam. If the penetration is large than the specified limits for the beam or you're still not confident, contact a structural engineer to evaluate it.


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