How far can we span with an I-beam when removing a supporting wall?

I got out of welding school in 1972. I assure you a 6" I-beam with a web nearly 1/2" thick will carry the load for a single story home 14'

I have been in all types of construction, includeing running crews building and remoling homes sense then, and it will carry it, but my question is, why not buy a laminated or engineered beam instead, unless you already have the I-beam. They would be alot cheaper than an I-beam also.

You can order one through Lowes, Home Depot, ect., and they can tell you from the charts exactly which one you would need. It would probably take a 3 1/2" x 8" angerred beam, but check with them to make sure I am right on that.

They are already engineered so you don't have to pay an engineer also.

Plus they are a lot easier to get in the air than a heavy I-beam will be. Thrust me on that. They are still heavy, but nothing like the I-beam.

Good luck

Once you know the load, look at the available engineered wood I beams. They are stiffer than steel.

There would be less vibration under dynamic load ( like people walking around causing long term stress on plastered joints upstairs.

I can think of one brand called Silent Floor that is regularly used in new home construction to span up to 24 feet.

Space might be an issue because they are taller than steel for a given span.

But you can easily drill through the web to pass cables and pipes, and it is as easy to attach dividing wall studs and headers using traditional woodworking technology.

They are much easier to handle, being significantly lighter than steel.

Bigger is always better. Determine what you are supporting by considering the location and/or the type of roof [ truss or rafter ]. Be very careful and sure here ! Make very certain to support the floor joists, before wall removal. I like to lay and attach a piece of plate steel, under the posts, for weight distribution, whenever possible. Remember to attach your joists, to your new beam. Any steel wholesaler can give you the actual load capabilities of the beams.

Six inch sounds okay, the web thickness is very close to 1/2 inch, that is quite thick for only a 14 foot span. If you feel safer with 8" go for it. I am running 22 foot spans in my shop with only 1/8 inch web thickness. I pull engines in the center of it. What ever you feel safest with is what you want.

If you're in doubt, especially if it involves a load bearing wall, you should most definately consult a structural engineer, not an architect. A structural engineer will tell you how to do it safely so that the load is carried properly, an architect will tell you how to make it look pretty!

Hope this helped, good luck!!

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i would think a 6 in. beam of that thickness will work. the only concern i have is the floor under the end posts. hope it is strong enough. i would think about having beam pockets cut into the block walls if your basement is of blocks. call the engineer

You may need to consult an architect for this. You'll have different codes throughout the country (i.e. earthquake zones, tornado zones, flooding, etc.). An engineer is where I would put my money.

ask at thelumberyard where you are buying the beam