Forum – we’re opening up our basement and removing one of the lally columns supporting one of the 6×8 beams. To strengthen the beam for the 10’ span the engineer specified to flitch the wooden beam with c-channel. The flitch is on either side of the 6” beam’s width. It’ll be welded to a plate and the lallys at either end. So far so good. But the design also calls for thru bolts every 12” on a zigzag pattern across the span, so 10 bolts. My question is, what is the best way to drill these holes? For the straightest holes should we drill from one side to the other, or from each side to meet in the middle? Should we transfer the hole pattern to either side of the wood beam or get the steel in place and drill the holes using the pre-drilled steel as a guide? What are the tricks to ensure that the holes are perfectly perpendicular and aligned? thanks!!
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Ask the engineer if lags are acceptable. If so predrill each channel and bolt from both sides.
great idea. will ask and let you know what he says. anyone else?
Drill from both sides. It's pretty easy if you're careful.
Remember also that the hole you drill should be 1/16" wider than bolt. That alone should give you some wiggle room.