Do I-Beams Help Bowed Walls?

Bowed Wall Problems

• A bowed wall develops serious cracks, not only along mortar but through stone and concrete. If left untended, the wall decays as damage worsens, potentially leading to total structural failure. A bowed wall cannot simply be shored up and patched. Buckling is caused by serious structural issues which need to be resolved by changing the way the foundation supports the house.

I-Beams

• An I-beam gets its name from its shape. It is a metal beam with two crosspieces located at the top and the bottom. I-beams are typically made from steel and focus the weight on either side of the beam into the beam. To prevent bowed wall problems, I-beams are installed against a repaired wall, flush with the surface, one crosspiece bolted along the ceiling and one along the base of the foundation for added support.

I-Beam Solutions

• When used correctly, I-beams can save on extensive remodeling costs. But contractors cannot install only one or two I-beams and expect a wall that properly supports weight. The I-beams need to take an equal weight off of the wall all across that side of the foundation. I-beams installed every four to five feet along the wall can provide necessary support, and concrete anchors or force bracket can add to the weight-bearing capacity.

Alternatives

• If a homeowner does not want to use I-beams, there are other choices for repairing bowed wall problems. One possible solution is a series of free-standing beams that add key support in other areas. This may be more expensive than using I-beams, but cost depends on why the wall is buckling and where support needs to be given.