Masonry question for garage

[BornNaked]

Hey fellas.


I have what is essentially a 2 car garage with a a concrete wall dividing the 2 bays. I believe it is 12 to 16 inches thick. It was built in the 20s. I don't know if there is rebar or anything inside

I would like a door way or bigger in the center of the wall.

How would you go about?

For making a squarish hole. Specific concrete saws? What type and size jackhammer would you recommend?

I was recommended installing a trestle for the top to support load. I can figure that out as I can weld something together.

Any advice before I tackle it is appreciated.

Thank you!

 

[missing linc]

I would try a concrete saw to make the opening, not that I have a lot of experience in this area, but I have used one for a similar job and was very happy with the result.

 

[mcodecuda]

If it’s block and the opening doesn’t need to go up to the floor joists I’d dig the cement that’s between the course of blocks where the header will be and slide in a 3” piece of angle iron in the gap. You will need to do this on both sides and the angle iron should extend 8 to 10” past each side of the opening. Now if the door opening will be larger than a 36” door you will need to put an 8” piece of I-beam across the opening. In this instance you will need to remove part of the top course of blocks to span the opening. You will also need to shim between the I-beam and the existing wood beam to take up the gap.

 

[Yunick13]

Call a contractor that specializes in concrete work

 

[Ozyduster]

Be careful its not brick or block, as above needs a lintel installed if it is. Mark out your door opening, then with a demo saw cut just the top foot of the vertical cuts then chase out the mortar line and slide in a lintel.
If you dont cut some of your vertical cut first then once lintel is installed its a bastard to do a neat vertical cut as the blade hits the lintel before cut is completed

 

[ProjectBazza]

Call a contractor that specializes in concrete work

AMEN!!!

Hire an engineer first, get recommendations from same, and then hire a licensed contractor.

Anything less and you’re asking for trouble, IMO.

 

[norshorblufish]

I’m a retired civil engineering tech of 40 years. I have to agree with getting someone who specializes in structural engineering. They will be able to figure if the wall is a supporting wall or not and how to handle the way to do the job. You don’t want to compromise the integrity of the support of what’s above it.

 

[BornNaked]

I agree with calling somebody.

Thank you all for who answered your answers were great!

 

[ocdart]

Check with your city. There may be documents regarding original permits and construction.

 

[85glht]

You can shore up that floor above to handle the weight while you make your doorway. It just gets in the way a little but it ensures that you aren't under a pile of rubble if things go awry. Cut your hole, install whatever lentil you need, remove shoring. It's not hard just be cautious.