Question about support column

10 years ago

We are renovating after Sandy. Kitchen and eating area are becoming open plan and the roof was raised to allow for a more expansive feel. Contractor first thought we'd need a supportive post, then said no, now says we need one. On the plan it is 4"x4" and abuts a new kitchen island. Thoughts? Would it be better to make the post larger and perhaps have some shelves, a charging station? Or is it better to leave it small? Should the contractor be thinking about making it look nice (like a rounded column)? I think right now it's a 4x4 and that's it. Thanks!

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Comments (5)

User
10 years ago
The "contractor" should have consulted a structural engineer before "deciding" anything. He's not qualified to make such structural calculations. You need to have an engineer take a look ASAP if you don't want your roof falling in on you.
User
10 years ago
If the column is necessary, what you do with it past the structural part is purely a decorating/usage function.

Have the situation resolved by an architect or structural engineer and then decide what you want to do.
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Fori
10 years ago
If it turns out you need it, check the kitchen forum for ways to make it look nice. It's not an uncommon problem and there are some pretty good solutions.
tfitz1006
Original Author
10 years ago
An engineer and architect have confirmed that we need the column.
Suzi AKA DesertDance So CA Zone 9b
10 years ago
Do you have a picture that would illustrate this dilemma? We have the same problem in an entirely different way, but the common factor is load bearing posts. Ours are 4 x 4 also, and we opted to cover with drywall. I didn't think about making them round columns. More $$$............
Suzi