Browse Forums Renovation + Home Improvement 1 Dec 05, 2013 2:03 pm I have un-reinforced masonry columns on isolated masonry sub floor piers supporting patio wishing to enclose with single stud walls and windows. Floor is 75mm sloped slab fenced by a single level layer of bricks between columns. Connecting to the south side of patio is a carport, a stud wall with window will be built on the carport slab partitioning the patio from the carport. The carport roof is part of the main roof of the dwelling (which is east of carport and patio). Patio currently has garden lattice enclosing the area. Older house early 1980's. Columns have 4 bricks(75mm high each) in every alternate layer giving a total column width of 230mm, length 470mm and height 2035mm. Sub floor piers appear to be ~450mm deep with width and length equal to column +~75mm. Columns are load bearing only in so much as it supports patio roof sheeting, beams and joists. Roof sheeting is supported by 135mm x 47mm beams, joists are ~95mm x ~45mm. Beams are attached to exterior wall of dwelling. Columns appear to have 430mm x 8mm rod which has a square(45mm width and 5mm thickness, see attachment) end placed inside of top columns which connect through the beams. No changes to roofing expected. Level perimeter layer of bricks have masonry footing 100mm depth and width extending 40-50mm past brick. North end of patio to be enclosed by either multifold doors or folding garage door, allowing full access to rear. Located in Willetton Perth, I do not believe this is a wind speed problem area, our neighbors which are higher than us are to the west. Concerns: Lack of reinforcement in columns - However stud wall may now provide additional support to columns and additional beam connecting stud wall to the exterior of dwelling wall may be necessary. Existing steel rod in top of columns may be insufficient for existing patio let alone new arrangements. Foundation under bricks (or possibly slab) under projected stud walls may be insufficient foundation for walls - No significant loads estimated so cant see it being a big issue other than thrust it may produce against columns under wind. New support beams from stud walls to dwelling will provide some extra support to stud walls and thereby columns too. Other end of carport will be open and air pressure may build on new wall and window between carport (carport has a brick wall on west side) and patio even after completion of patio. Local council requirements require my attention. Sketchup model available, jpeg attached showing 1st stud wall in carport and existing arrangement in patio. Any thoughts on this would be appreciated. 1st post. Thanks, TP Like ⋅ Add a comment ⋅ Pin to Ideaboard ⋅ Re: Project - enclosure of existing patio 2Dec 07, 2013 9:51 pm Some pics of the sketchup model can really be useful. The problem which you are facing requires some expert intervention to solve, since closing a patio is tricky problem and you are right about the existing steel arrangement, they wouldn't be able to support current and new arrangements. Take a calculated risk. Firstly the ableflex that has been installed needs (manufactures specification) a sealant cap over the top, preventing water draining down between the slab and the… 3 7969 If your patio is going to be 35 sqm then that's going to need Council Approval. The fact that they previously approved your 25sqm patio will be irelevant 1 5682 DIY, Home Maintenance & Repair This is a very challenging situation, made much harder by not being on site. Firstly, I think that I originally… 10 9215 |