Beam pocket or concrete pilaster

2/3/2013 at 12:11:07 PM

My first question is "is the wall rated for the loads it will see with the new beam in a pocket"?

The purpose of the pilaster is to support more of the beam than just the depth of the wall. However I believe you need to ensure your footing extends enough to take the load on the pilaster. Otherwise the extra length of the pilaster is redundant.

I would ask the person who sealed the drawing.

Good luck.

2/3/2013 at 12:18:20 PM

It is not a matter of which option is cheaper, what has been approved by the city on your stamped permitted drawing, when dealing with load and structure.

Don't try and save a buck.

2/3/2013 at 12:37:18 PM

Both systems are good. The cheaper one to do is the beam pocket.

To install a pilaster requires a footing large enough to support it. Depending on the age of your house your footing may be wide enough but not usually the case.

Installing a new footing and the pilaster is usually more time consuming as well as materials than creating a beam pocket.

2/3/2013 at 12:53:28 PM

The beam pocket is way better structually and gives u more room space because u dont have to cover up post with a faulse wall. Then dry wall mud tape and paint!

So beam pocket would be cheaper and better over all. Thats what I would do.

2/3/2013 at 3:22:52 PM

Provided that your foundation wall is in good condition, a beam pocket is cheaper.

This is not typically D.I.Y. type work. You can do a lot of damage if this is not done correctly.

Don't forget to preload your beam before you grout your base plates.

2/5/2013 at 12:05:39 PM

I agree with Mark. The pilaster was spec'd by your engineer or designer and approved by your city because it meets Building Code.