Problem: Inadequate Support - Support Beam/Girder Sags 2
Cause:
Beam/Girder ends rotting.
Solutions:
Protect beam/girder ends, that bear on exterior foundation walls, at or below grade. Beams/girders set into concrete or exposed to high moisture conditions are subject to decay or rotting.
Protect beam/girder ends that bear on exterior foundation walls at or below grade from moisture-induced rotting. Use pressure-treated lumber or provide a 1/2″ (12 mm) air space all around the beam/girder end. The space permits air circulation and moisture evaporation as shown in Figure 12.
Figure 12 - Protecting Beam Ends From Moisture
You may protect the ends of beams/girders supported on concrete by wrapping them in polyethylene. This would protect the wood from being exposed to the moisture in the concrete and it would also allow for the installation of a good, tight air barrier around the end of the beam/girder. This technique works best when the beam/girder is installed in a beam/girder pocket rather than when the beam/girder is cast into the concrete wall.
