Yup, we’re talking about that awkward, unappealing posts in your basement; they have a name and a much more important purpose. Basement support posts act as an auxiliary structure to your house’s beams to ensure that everything stands well together. You can spot a basement beam support post anywhere in the room as they can be purposely built depending on the weight they need support. If you’re looking for more information about the steel support columns in your basement, then read through this article as we’re telling you everything from types of basement posts, installation, and how you can use it to your decorative advantage!

Are Basements Support Posts Necessary? 

Yes. Support posts act as support to structural beams, which are the horizontal bars where the walls and the floor joists of the house are attached. Basement columns also serve as supplemental tools when you’re renovating your basement and you need to move beams or foundations. They help in weight distribution, protecting your house from damage. Additionally, when the task involves the need for construction equipment to be moved, you can rely on A1 to transport heavy equipment for such a task. Ensuring that the structural integrity of your home is maintained during significant renovations or repairs is crucial.

Permanent Support Post vs. Temporary Support Post 

There are two main types of posts; permanent (single-piece post) and temporary. Permanent support posts or columns are single steel posts with standard size and installation procedure. Permanent posts should be at least 3 inches in diameter and must contain building code stickers as proof of safety. A steel post has two ends, one end is a flange, and the other end is adjustable. Both ends can be attached, either way, so feel free to place them according to your needs. Please note that It is highly recommended to seek the help of experts installing permanent metal posts. On the other hand, a temporary support post consists of two or more adjustable pieces. They are also called “jack posts.” Temporary-rated posts have less weight capacity than the permanent support, and the weight of the house causes them to bend over time, thus the term temporary.

How to Install a Basement Support Post

Step 1: Measurements

Measure the height of your space and make sure that the length of your post is suitable. Grab your tape measure and start identifying the length of your basement ceiling, foundation walls, and floor.

Step 2: Attach lumber

Identify the spot you need to support; the usual causes are a cracked wood beam. After you align the spot, it’s time to get some lumber plank (2 x 10 or 2 x 12) and cut a square-shaped portion to serve as an elevated stand to your basement jack post. Next, cut another wooden block that will go between the beam and the structural post; in some cases, you need two (put the one on the other) and then attach to the other end.

Step 3: Adjust according to needed support

Remember, basement support columns are there as support and not to elevate, so be careful not to overdo it. If you need to support more weight, you can opt to attach more multiple-piece posts to distribute the weight load.

Step 4: Seal with cement

Cementing the post’s base to the floor is optional, but it is a must if you have a dirt floor in your basement as these don’t support the load as strong as concrete floors. Suppose you’re uncertain whether you need this or not, then it’s better to consult basement renovation experts to guide you.

How to Deal with Support Posts in Your Basement 

Support posts tend to be placed in an awkward position around the room. That’s why some people prefer to conceal or remove them. If you’re one of those people, this is good news to you as you can have several options in dealing with support posts in your basement!

Invest in double beam

A double beam will strengthen the support of your home better. Thus, you can minimize the number of posts. Adding a double beam requires some financial investment and work, so you might want to evaluate before doing it.

Minimize the Post 

Apply visual techniques to hide your basement support pole. Use bright-colored paint to hide columns by matching colors to the wall or the entire room. This will surely improve the room and make your living space better! 

Build the Post Into the Room

Repurpose your structural support posts by turning them to shelves, half walls, and other structures that you can put in your basement. Not only does it add functionality to your basement, but it also conceals those awkward posts.

Decorate Posts

If you don’t want to paint or repurpose, you can design your beam support post. You can use a fancy fabric to wrap those poles or add some touches to stage them and make them stand out. Some people use decorative wood or follow a traditional design to make it look more classy.

Can I Move a Support Post in my Basement?

Yes, but you have to make sure that you don’t compromise the stability of the foundations of your home. You can move a basement column by using a temporary post to cover the column you want to remove. You can also add a double beam to lessen the need for a support column permanently.

How can a basement contractor help you with your basement support and beam problems?

Installing and removing a basement beam is a serious job to do. The task takes accuracy and precision as you’re dealing with the physics and engineering of your home. If not done properly, it can cause damage to your beams and foundation. If you want to make sure you do it right, you should contact a basement renovation contractor to help you with your basement and beam problems. Don’t risk mistakes in your home investments; call the right people who can do the job for you!