need a technical opinion

[jakali]

In the attached picture; Could you please tell me what load does the beam above the parking opening hold? could it be removed and replaced by a steel beam to raise the opening height? in short is it a structure or non structure

 

[jakali]

2nd view

 

[MikeHalloran]

I think the piece to which you refer is called a lintel.

It is definitely structural.

You need to hire a structural engineer to answer your question.


Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA

 

[KootK]

It looks like a structural element to me. If you replace it with a steel beam, I expect that it will be working pretty hard.

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.

 

[hokie66]

The beam is carrying the floor above and a wall above. The depth of the concrete beam is probably the part that hangs down plus the depth of the floor system. If you replace it with a steel beam, that depth would be much less, so I wouldn't hold much hope of it working. But you really need to get a structural engineer to evaluate the situation to see if there is a practical solution.

 

[JAE]

Nobody has said this yet....but you need to get a structural engineer to look at this....


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[jayrod12]

JAE,

Mike beat you to it.

 

[JAE]

(jayrod12 - just trying to be redundant and sarcastic)

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[Ron]

JAE...I'm shocked!

jakali...a steel beam that would carry the same load would likely not provide as much clearance as what you currently have....besides, the beam looks to be integrally cast with the section above it.