How to place beam under load bearing wall?

Alan_

My builder is currently opening our entryway and the wall is load bearing.

We have a gable style roof, so the rafters lay directly on an existing beam and top plate.

So far we have put in temporary supports to hold the roof up and have removed the studs and plaster board.

The beam we are using will be a double 240 x 45 LVL.

My question is, does the LVL sit directly on the rafters? Or should the rafters sit on a top plate with the beam below and supported by a king and jack stud?

MitchellMc

Hi @Alan_

Because this is a structural alteration involving a load-bearing wall, the exact installation method really needs to follow specifications provided by an engineer or the builder responsible for the work. The beam size, bearing points and connection details all need to be clearly specified to ensure the load from the roof is transferred safely.

If your builder is carrying out the opening, this would be a good question to put directly to them. They should already have guidance on whether the LVL sits directly under the rafters or if a top plate and specific stud configuration is required, as well as the correct fixing methods.

Even with a beam such as a double 240 × 45 LVL, the correct installation details are important and can vary depending on the roof structure and loads involved. Structural alterations like this aren’t something to take lightly, so it’s best that the builder installs the beam according to the engineered specification for the project.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell