Case Study: Restoring Structural Integrity in a South Hills Home (Sagging Floor)

November 2020

Pittsburgh Design & Engineering Services- Floor Sag

At Pittsburgh Design & Engineering Services, we were recently consulted to evaluate a significant floor sag in a single-family home located in the South Hills area of Pittsburgh. Our detailed assessment revealed critical structural issues stemming from unprofessional modifications made to a load-bearing beam.

The Structural Challenge (Sagging Floor)

The homeowner reported a noticeable sag in the first-level wooden floor. Using precise leveling tools, we measured a deflection of approximately 1 inch over a 4-foot span. Upon further investigation, it became clear that a previous homeowner had altered a load-bearing beam without proper structural analysis. This modification severely compromised the home’s structural integrity, leading to the visible floor sag.

Our Expert Solution

To restore the home's structural stability, we recommended replacing the compromised beam with a properly sized and structurally sound alternative. A Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) beam was identified as the ideal solution due to its high strength and reliability. The beam's size and capacity will be carefully calculated based on span length and tributary load requirements. In some cases, a steel beam may be considered, provided installation logistics align with the project constraints.

Proper installation is critical. This process involves leveling the support system, which may require carefully lifting the floor joists to eliminate sagging. We strongly advise hiring a licensed, insured and experienced contractor to ensure precise installation and compliance with local building codes.

Why Professional Guidance Matters

Structural issues like this are increasingly common, particularly in flipped homes where cost-saving practices or lack of experience may lead to improperly altered load-bearing walls. Removing or modifying structural elements without consulting a qualified structural engineer can result in costly damage and safety risks.

If you're planning to remove a wall and are unsure if it's load-bearing, or need expert guidance on sizing and installing an LVL beam, Pittsburgh Design & Engineering Services is here to help. Remember, most municipalities require permits for structural modifications—compliance with these regulations is essential for your safety and peace of mind.

Protect Your Investment

Your home is more than just a structure—it's your sanctuary. We prioritize your safety and the long-term stability of your home. Reach out to us for expert structural assessments, professional guidance, and code-compliant solutions.

Contact Pittsburgh Design & Engineering Services today to safeguard your home and make informed, confident decisions.

Picture below shows the improperly modified beam:

"built up beam"

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Written by Firas Abdelahad, P.E.

Firas Abdelahad has been a practicing structural engineer since 2005, collaborating with a diverse range of professionals, including consultants, architects, investors, homeowners, contractors, and subcontractors. Together, they tackle the various challenges that can arise during the design and construction phases of projects.

The information and statements in this document are for information purposes only and do not comprise the professional advice of the author or create a professional relationship between reader and author.