This post is intended to show some of the deficiencies that I either experienced first hand or noticed on the social media when posted by others.
Improper splice & support:
In this picture below, unfortunately many elements were either not installed correctly or modified improperly; beam was spliced inches away from the support, also the post isn’t supported properly at its base. A post needs to be supported by a footer that is sized to its load and designed to meet code requirement.
Post/Temporary post supported on Slab:
In the pictures below, a perfect example of what would/could potentially happens when a post is supported on concrete slab without distributing the stress properly and/or when it isn't resting/supported by a footer that is designed for its load. I am certain that many of us have seen few of these posts (steel jack/telescopic posts) in their basement, a family or a friend basement at some point. They tend to be very tempting as quick solution for a floor sag but unfortunately many of these posts are not installed correctly also not supported correctly as you can see.
The high concentration in loads will cause the post base to punch through the Slab.
Improperly reinforced foundation block wall:
In the picture below you will see how the I beam improperly attached at its upper end. which will lead to a question isn’t properly attached at the base ? The I beam is leaning as the wall is still pushing inward. a reinforcement that the home owner paid to do and unfortunately will have to pay again to correct.
Consulting with the right qualified structural engineer can save you a lot of money and more importantly time.
I guess a garage door track was more important than the structural integrity of the steel beam and concrete floor:
In the picture below you will see what rust can do when left untreated, you will also see how an I beam was cut for a garage door track be installed.
the 2 pictures below show how an improperly supported beam can react and essentially fail under design load. Load bearing beams need to be supported properly at splices also properly for their size, load and span.
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.