How concerned should I be about a crack in a wood beam?

Answer by  scott96 (113)

I wouldn't be too concerned with a crack in a wood beam if the crack is with the grain of the wood and small. Cracks happen if wood is put in place with a high moisture content and then drys in place. If the crack is larger than 1/4 inch I would seek a professional.

Answer by  wpblmcjrjr (18)

Overtime a house settles and wood beams may crack, similar to floors and ceilings cracking. Minor stress cracks are OK and should not have a significant concern. However, if the beam has a large crack and is a supporting beam, there should be a concern enough to call a roofer for an inspection.

Answer by  fred19 (73)

If the beam is a main support beam of the house it should be replaced. If the beam is an interior wall or not a support beam it is not a problem and doesn't need replacement.

Answer by  Latin4 (11170)

A decorative beam I wouldn't be to concerned. If its a beam that supports something, like the ceiling or a floor I would be very concerned and have it replaced.

Answer by  Arioch (190)

This depends if the beam is part of a load bearing structure ie it supports brickwork or floors above then yes this could be the beginnings of a serious fault in the structure and need looking at and repairing/replacing by experts as soon as possible.

Answer by  Latin4 (11170)

I would be very concerned with a cracked beam, especially if its hold something up, like your house. I would call a contractor to assess the situation.

Answer by  Liz59 (10966)

You shouldn't be that concerned unless the crack is very deep. If it is deep then you need to repair the beam.

Answer by  digital1007 (113)

Depending whether or not the crack is in a load bearing spot you may need to seek a qualified contractor to look at it.

Answer by  xtremetree (306)

Unless it is a major crack, I would not be concerned at all. Most beams will have minor stress cracks in time. This is common. If it is a very large crack, have a professional out to inspect it.

Answer by  Disneyphan (529)

You need to figure out if the beam is a load bearing beam. If it is, you will want to have it checked out.

Answer by  withluck (1745)

Some wood beams are decorative only and a crack due to age is not a concern. Some wood beams are supports and the crack can weaken the structure. In this case, what you would need to do is replace the beam if possible and if not possible than you should add additional supports.

Answer by  champaign9497 (11977)

You should always watch things like that closely if it were in my house I would contact a professional they c an come in and look at it and tell you if there is something you need to do to fix it or if it is ok to leave alone.

Answer by  Totty (-18)

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