We are planning to start building in a couple of weeks and I'm still debating how to install the I-beam: 1. to create pockets in the wall and installing after the walls are poured or 2. to install it in place before pouring, so will be encapsulated by concrete. What do you guys recommend? Thank you.

Please give us more details. Where, for what purpose, and how large an I-beam. Those are all variables that need to be taken into consideration.

Posted By dmaceld on 30 Apr 2017 11:17 PM
Please give us more details. Where, for what purpose, and how large an I-beam. Those are all variables that need to be taken into consideration.

The I-Beam which supports the main floor is W10x39. The total length is 60ft supported by 2 jack poles but I ordered the beam in 3 sections for easy handling. I'm wondering how you guys are installing the I beam. My neighbor told me that his contractor installed the beam in place and then poured the concrete. Looking online looks like people are creating a pocket in the wall and after the walls are poured the I beam is installed.

If the engineer has not given any instructions, I would install after the fact. If you try to encapsulate it, make very sure you have it well supported so as not to create a safety hazard during the pour.

10X39, that's a big beam... You will have to build Some solid support structure to hold that in place for the pour. it might also conflict with scaffold/catwalk placement where as a pocket will not interfere with the pour all that much. With a pocket, you can also leave an opening in the bottom of the pocket form to allow air to escape and insure concrete completely fills in the void under the pocket to completely support the beam when installed...

Posted By ronmar on 01 May 2017 03:25 AM
10X39, that's a big beam... You will have to build Some solid support structure to hold that in place for the pour. it might also conflict with scaffold/catwalk placement where as a pocket will not interfere with the pour all that much. With a pocket, you can also leave an opening in the bottom of the pocket form to allow air to escape and insure concrete completely fills in the void under the pocket to completely support the beam when installed...

W10 x 39 wide flange beam is just under 8" wide x 10" deep. The 39 is lbs/ft weight. Not a horribly big beam I don't think. Making a pocket gives latitude to make elevation adjustments during the install. If it's placed during the pour you have to make sure it's well supported so it doesn't settle and end up being lower than needed.

Beam pocket for ease of adjustment with steel shims, then you can grout it in after its set if you want. I always set it on a piece of ice and water to seperate the steel from the concrete. Jack poles with the threaded end down so the concrete floor encapsulates it, otherwise youll need to tack weld the threads to the pole. Use a laser to set height exact.
If its just an icf basement and stick upper you need either account for the sill seal raising the mudsill slightly or better yet run sill seal under the beam plate as well to keep uniform.

Dunno if I'd recommend concreting in the end of the jack-posts.

It leaves you with yet another penetration in your concrete and a possible thermal bridge.

Bury it in the wall and wet set. Vibrate carefully to insure complete encasement.

DMACELD is correct about the size. I simulate the area the beam will need by gluing scrap foam in the wall at the beam end location. The foam is pulled out when the beam is ready to set. Keeps the wall intact. Uses scrap. Less labor cost than building a box or bulkheading. I've never poured a beam in anything I've ever built ICF or not. House or hospital. Never.