I'm trying to figure out how to securely wedge a post under an LVL beam that's 8 feet up, right above a cement floor in a storage unit. I can't screw into the structure, so I'm looking for ways to just wedge the post in there and then screw into the post itself. My goal is to hang things like an extension ladder, but I'm a bit worried about how much flex the post might have under load. What options do I have to ensure that it's stable and holds up well?
1 Answer
One method that works well is to cut the post to the right length, then set the top where you want it and pound the bottom until it's firmly in place. This way, the beam won't get damaged since you’re just adjusting the post. If it’s not tight enough, it probably means you cut it too short. Just make sure it fits snugly!
Thanks for the tip! Should I aim for a precise cut, or perhaps make it a bit longer—like 1/16 or 1/8 inch—just to be safe, considering the floor and the LVL are level? I've thought about using 2x4s and sistering them. Maybe it's better to start a quarter inch too long and adjust from there?