Damaged Mast Support Beam

[SVJOCO]

Hi all!

We recently discovered that one of our mast support beams was previously rotted and then hidden under trim by a previous owner. Nice. I’ve removed all of the damaged wood (all dry for a long time best I can tell) and confirmed that the plywood bulkhead itself and its twin beam on the opposite side is in good condition. The majority of the affected beam, including the section directly under the mast are intact or very minimally damaged (see picture). The question is, what are some repair options.

Our idea, have a carpenter prepare a new beam section and then epoxy bond it in to place. Perhaps have some rods embedded in to the existing beam, and the end of the new beam for additional strength. Got this idea from old house wooden beam repair videos on YouTube.

We’re really hoping that we don’t need to remove the entire beam.

Thanks in advance,

[Benz]

Best I can suggest with the limited info is that your idea is sound. As long as you have good mating surfaces and smooth scarph joints, a sistered-in beam should do.

[SVJOCO]

Originally Posted by Benz

Best I can suggest with the limited info is that your idea is sound. As long as you have good mating surfaces and smooth scarph joints, a sistered-in beam should do.

Thanks for the reply. What additional information would be helpful?

[Benz]

Originally Posted by SVJOCO

Thanks for the reply. What additional information would be helpful?

A physical poking and prying around the area, which is not practical for most internet responders to do. Whomever is going to do the job will get to do that and hopefully find all to be well.