Opening on Existing CMU
Opening on Existing CMU
(OP)
To support a new 24' long by 15' high opening on an existing CMU bearing wall (roof loads, wind, etc), we are using a WF steel beam and two WF steel columns. What is the best way to connect the steel beam and columns to the exiting CMU.






RE: Opening on Existing CMU
If so - what would provide the makeup for the lost lateral resistance in the wall? The beam/column bent would laterally be braced by the wall at the opening edges and this would definitely overstress the CMU with a 24 foot opening.
RE: Opening on Existing CMU
RE: Opening on Existing CMU
RE: Opening on Existing CMU
RE: Opening on Existing CMU
Use steel straps on each face of the wall (assuming the wall is covered and you can get away with it) and bolt into the face of the wall each side with sleeve anchors or with Hilti HY 20 anchors.
Another detail is to use a WF just large enough to fit the flanges on each face of the adjacent wall, thus tying the two together.
Alternatively, you could use a channel instead of a WF for the column, with bolts going through the web into the end of the wall.
RE: Opening on Existing CMU
RE: Opening on Existing CMU
RE: Opening on Existing CMU