Help sizing a beam for cabin

[FLASH_OUTDOORS]

I’m wanting to build a cabin 18x32. The porch will be in the front and make up the first 8’ of the 32’ length. There will be a loft above the porch. I can support the beam at the wall at 24’ and again at gable end of porch. I will put a post in the middle to carry load down.

Is this something I can accomplish with dimensional lumber or do I need to order a glulam?

If so what size.


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[Mudslinger]

I would do the glulam, maybe 16” but do not hold me to that. Been too long since I have done any of that.

[FLASH_OUTDOORS]

Here is a pic. I want the beam to run full 32’ length. But I will support at 24’ wall



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[Leemo]

There’s a website, I think it’s called free span???
Don’t remember, but it’s got all the info you need for free span beams

[Txhunter3000]

Not understanding why you need a 32' beam. You're doing conventional framing with studs and double top plate, correct?

[TeamAmerica]

If adding a post inside (assuming mid point), go with dimensional 2x12x12 glued and screwed. Then something similar for 8 ft span on porch. No need to span anything 32 feet! Wrap it in fir or cedar for looks.

[Benno]

Not understanding why you need a 32' beam. You're doing conventional framing with studs and double top plate, correct?

^^^^

Not understand where and why you’re running a 32’ beam. Under the cabin? Add supports at 8’. At the joists? You’ll be resting on walls.

[FLASH_OUTDOORS]

Not understanding why you need a 32' beam. You're doing conventional framing with studs and double top plate, correct?

^^^^



Not understand where and why you’re running a 32’ beam. Under the cabin? Add supports at 8’. At the joists? You’ll be resting on walls.

The only place there will be ceiling joist is at the porch. Everywhere else will be rafters only. I might not have explained it well but the beam will be a ridge beam and rafters tying into it.

I was thinking ordering 32’ to keep from transitioning to something else just for the 8’ of the porch.


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[FLASH_OUTDOORS]

If adding a post inside (assuming mid point), go with dimensional 2x12x12 glued and screwed. Then something similar for 8 ft span on porch. No need to span anything 32 feet! Wrap it in fir or cedar for looks.

I’m not adding any post. Whatever I use will need to span 24’. I will use a stud pack to support it in the wall that separates the porch from the inside.


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[Txhunter3000]

Outside my pay grade but I feel an 3 1/2-4" x 24" glulam for the ridge would work. I would metal strap diagonals in the roof and block midspan. Man you gotta keep all of that roof weight from shifting. You didn't say what pitch.

[Benno]

I’m not adding any post. Whatever I use will need to span 24’. I will use a stud pack to support it in the wall that separates the porch from the inside.


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Ok. I see the thinking, but you don’t need a beam. You’re rafters are going to support the ridge and transfer the roof weight down to the exterior walls. The ridge just needs to sized so the rafters faces have full bearing to the ridge. That size will depend on pitch. Lumber over 24’ spans gets expensive.

[Fishndude]

Learned a new word. Glulam. Glued laminated timber. Ok!

[Mudslinger]

Learned a new word. Glulam. Glued laminated timber. Ok!

Back in the day we always called the LVL's!

[Greenheadless]

Not trying to hijack, but I am looking for somewhat the same application.

I wanted to know if anyone had a recommendation of a structural engineer to do the calculations? Preferably in the Houston area.

I am sure foundation needs looking at as well to support the stud pack/jack stud loading as well.

[TeamAmerica]

I will put a post in the middle to carry load down.

This is what confused me in my first response. I think you are referring to wall framing on the end. In that case for 24 ft will definitely need a structural beam and some heaving equipment or a lot of hands to place it! I still suggest doing the porch beam separate with dimensional lumber for the 8 ft span. Is this all DIY?