Sound vertical supports are a critcal component in a house’s structure. No breaking news there. Repairing posts and lally columns can be tricky, though. You have to safely support the load that is being carried before you start and often you have to upgrade to a propper footing to spread and stabilize said load.
Our next two issues feature two such projects. First., in issue #209, Massachusetts builder and remodeler Emanuel Silva explains how to replace a lally column in an old basement where he had to punch through the slab to dig and pour a new footing. In issue #210, Portland’s Scott Grice shows us how he rescued an old porch by replacing the failing two piece posts and pony walls. Scott also had to dig below the porch to pour an acceptable footing.
Emanuel and Scott do great work, and I’m sure you’ll pick up some helpful tips in their stories, but if you have a similar project to tackle, I may be able to save you some time and money. Check out this post on www.thereifixedit.com. If you haven’t seen it yet, this website is a place where users share their most innovative handiwork. Maybe you even have something to contribute (though if you read FHB, I kind of doubt it).
Cheers!
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Just so I don't mess this up when I try it...is that domestic or an import??