Installing lally columns may seem straightforward, but doing it incorrectly can put your home at serious risk. Many homeowners try to save money with DIY fixes, only to find out later that the column was unstable, the footing was missing, or the material used wasn’t up to code. Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing the right way to install them.
What Are Lally Columns and Why Do Homes Need Them?
Lally columns are vertical steel supports, often filled with concrete, that are designed to carry the weight of beams and distribute that load into the foundation. They are common in basements, especially in older homes, because they provide stability and prevent floors above from sagging. Without properly installed lally columns, a home’s structural integrity can be compromised.
Common DIY Mistakes When Installing Lally Columns
Using Temporary Columns
One of the most frequent mistakes is using screw-jack style temporary columns as permanent supports. These hollow, adjustable columns are not designed to carry a home’s weight long term and can collapse under stress. In the event of a fire, they can also fail quickly, putting your entire structure at risk.
Skipping the Footing
A proper footing is essential for stability. Building codes require a concrete pad that extends about 12 to 14 inches below the floor. Without this footing, the column may shift, sink, or fail to properly distribute the load. A column placed directly on a basement floor slab simply cannot provide the support your home needs.
Improper Top Support
Another dangerous shortcut is using makeshift materials like wood scraps or even household objects between the top of the column and the beam. Building codes require a thick steel plate, welded or bolted securely to the beam. Anything less creates instability and a high risk of failure.
Code Requirements and Safety Standards
Today’s building codes require lally columns to be made of steel and filled with concrete to ensure strength and fire resistance. Columns must be properly fastened at both the top and bottom, with secure connections that transfer the load safely. Ignoring these standards not only compromises safety but can also void insurance coverage in the event of a failure.
When to Replace a Lally Column
You should consider replacing lally columns if you see rust, bending, or shifting. Old screw-jack columns or makeshift supports are also red flags. Even if a column looks stable, if it does not meet current code requirements, it should be upgraded for long-term safety and compliance.
FAQs About Installing Lally Columns
Do I need a permit to install lally columns?
In most cases, yes. Because lally columns are structural supports, local building codes often require a permit to ensure the work is safe and compliant.
Can I install lally columns myself?
It is possible, but risky. Mistakes are common and can lead to serious safety hazards. Professional installation ensures proper materials, footing, and fastening.
What’s the difference between temporary and permanent lally columns?
Temporary columns are hollow, adjustable screw-jack types meant only for short-term use. Permanent lally columns are solid steel, filled with concrete, and designed to last.
How much does it cost to install a lally column?
Costs vary depending on materials and labor. While DIY may seem cheaper, mistakes often lead to costly repairs, making professional installation the more cost-effective choice.
Installing Lally Columns the Right Way
Lally columns are essential to your home’s stability, and cutting corners can put your family at risk. Installing them correctly means using proper materials, footing, and fastening methods that meet modern codes.
For over 25 years, A-1 Foundation Crack Repair has provided safe, professional lally column replacement. Our team ensures your home remains structurally sound with code-compliant, long-lasting solutions.
Contact A-1 Foundation Crack Repair today for expert help with installing lally columns and protecting your home’s foundation.