| I want to open up some space in my basement for a family room, but we have a tele-post in the way. Can we remove or relocate it? |
|
|
|
|
The short answer is yes to both. A tele-post is the steel column extending from the concrete floor to the underside of the beam. These are used to transfer the load from the main floor to a footing under the basement floor. Their locations are engineered based on the span of the beams, joists, and main floor loads. They are what's holding up your house. A professional will always commission a structural engineer to perform an assessment on the loads and a feasibility of removal. Do not remove any load bearing structure otherwise. This being said, not all tele-post can be removed without major reconstruction. Removing a tele-post is easier and less intrusive that relocating. To remove, the beam and supporting columns must be reinforced as per spec to carry the increased load of the extended span (typically with iron). The post can then be removed. This is based on the Engineers report. There is usually some relocation of ducting, electrical, etc..., but overall relatively painless. To relocate, you still must have an engineers report. A new pier must then be installed in the new location. This includes digging out a specified size hole, pouring a new footing, installing the new post, and re-pouring the floor. The engineer will provide you with a compliance letter which will be needed for your City of St. Albert building permit. Contact a professional for an assessment, and be wary of a contractor taking short cuts.
|





