Strength, resistance to force. A concept that is elegantly simple. We have all built things with building blocks, Lincoln Logs, or whatever toys are at hand. As children we begin to figure out quickly that too much weight makes our sky scraper collapse. We begin again, with new knowledge, hopeful our new design will reach to the ceiling and beyond.
However reality can be a real bitch.
At times I think these playroom construction techniques are carried into adulthood. Looking at this support column and footing, I would believe that to an untrained eye it looks sturdy at a glance.
It is not.
Looking carefully one can see column's top plate is bending. A closer look reveals the curve.
This type of support column is very common to find in many basements here in Connecticut. It is also not meant for the job it has been assigned. This is a temporary support column designed generally for bracing during repair work. There do exist permanent support columns that look very similar. The main difference is the diameter and thickness of the steel.
And they are labeled for permanent use.
Another issue here is the concrete footing onto which this column bears. It is grossly undersized. To put this in perspective, a deck usually will require footings of a diameter of 10 - 12 inches. This footing is 8 inches. Very generally, depending on soils and number of supports, a footing for a single story house is a 12 - 16 inch pad.
Is it any wonder this support is sinking?
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