Another beam size thread...

[DIY]

I have a room (15X20) that is built on beams (set on posts). The footings are failing. My plan is to replace the beams and footings. What is the best kind of beam to use for a twenty foot span? and how big should the footings be?
There is a crawl space under the room, which makes digging difficult. That is why I would like to go the whole twenty feet with the span.

[Richard A Hetzel]

this type of question can only be properly answered by a qulaified design professional (architect or structural engineer) who can examine the building and carefully determine the loads involved, and then the best type of beam for your application.

[Rich]

I agree with Richard. Difficult to give a good answer without much more detail regarding loads from above, how much room is available, etc. And when talking about footings failing - you've got much bigger problems than your beam.
Now basic information in regards to types of beams - glu-lams or multiple ply LVL's would probably do what you want.

[zkt]

I`m more concerned with the footings than the beam.