Can a supporting columns use these brackets?

[Kevin_s]

Is there any way these columns with the top and bottom brackets can be supporting columns. If I can't tell by the brackets, I will need to break into their drywall at places to see if it or another beam is supporting.

 

[Kevin_s]

Another Photo

 

[hokie66]

I would not assume they are non-structural. Just looking at the connections does not tell you that.

 

[CANPRO]

Those are structural connections - look them up in the Simpson catalog.

Looking at the 2nd picture - it appears that the roof to the right is lower than the roof on the left, and inline with the post in question is a beam to support the change in roof elevation. I would suspect the posts are structural.

 

[Rabbit12]

I wouldn't take that column out without doing some more demo to verify it's use. Those brackets are post caps manufactured by Simpson. I'm with Canpro, it's likely a load bearing element.

 

[kipfoot]

Just because a post base is installed upside down at the top of the column doesn't mean that it wasn't intended as a support for the beam.

 

[OldBldgGuy]

The posts and brackets were installed after the drywall was finished, which doesn't mean they are non-loadbearing, but does mean they were installed by a shoemaker. You won't know what they are supposed to be doing without more investigation. Can you see the beam anywhere to know what it is? Knowing its capacity puts you much further forward.

 

[Kevin_s]

Thanks, what is throwing me off is that the metal brace is installed under drywall on the top and on top of the old linoleum floor. I will open up the wall and try to see the beam and connections.