Bridging For Above Grade Concrete Walls

ETHICS05

(South Florida Construction)

I will be using an above grade concrete wall product called Epic Walls out of Orlando, FL (franchaise subsidiary of Superior Walls known nationwide I believe) for the first time. These walls will be taking the place of the traditional CMU concrete block walls and tie beam.

Question: I'm looking for a proper product (steel, or concrete, or other?) that is cost effective and will take the place of the traditional tie beam when used to bridge the span between front entry columns for example and have proper load capabilities needed to support roof trusses. The span between the front entry columns for example is between 7' and 9'. This is for residential single family homes.

I'd be happy to forward a picture of how the columns and tie beam with the traditional method look if that is helpful.

The walls themselves do not need a tie beam - trusses sit right on top of the walls. The Epic Walls are 6" wide.

Due to the "block shortage" some of us are experimenting with new products -new to us.

Thanks a lot! Feel free to send me an e-mail if you like to SAEhlers@swfla.rr.com.

Glasshousebltr

I think a pic would help out here. Or at least a floor plan.

Something anyway.

Bob

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Bob