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Re: Rusting Support Beam

From: lcornely@clfund.com
Category: Foundations and Basements
Remote Name: 24.3.142.49
Date: 22 Sep 2005
Time: 07:05 AM

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Question: We have a steel support beam in the center of our garage. There is rust at the base of the steel beam, eroding the beam about 1/4 inch into the center all the way around the beam. The rust continues about 2-1/2 inches up the beam. We also have water seeping into the foundation on occasion. The water is only a trickle, but we get it in the garage and in the basement after every rain. i assume the dampness in the garage after a rain is causing the rusty beam. Our house was built in 1963 and is a two-story dwelling with 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths.  What should we do about this?

Builders Websource® Answer: If the rust is as deep as your suggest, you should immediately seek the advice of a competent, licensed structural engineer. It's possible that the gradual oxidation has compromised the structural integrity of your support beam. Presumably this beam carries part of the 2nd-floor load. Depending on the severity, you may need to replace or buttress the existing beam. Hopefully, though, the rust is only superficial and can be brushed away, reprimed, and painted with a rustproofing paint such as Rustoleum.

However, you first have to fix the source of the problem. If rain and moisture are permeating the structure and draining on to the beam during rainy months, you must find and fix this, otherwise you will continue to fight the rust problem. Furthermore, you could have other structural damage resulting from the water/moisture, such as rot in the walls or joists. When it comes to ensuring a safe, healthy, and structurally sound home, excessive moisture is a scourge. You must eliminate this at the source and inspect for other damage that may have occurred over the years.

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