[gregzoll]

One is made out of steel, one is wood. One is smaller, and the other is larger. Wood shrinks over time, steel doesn't.

 

[gregzoll]

shadetree, they should have them in the building supplies area, or be able to order it. I have to go out to our Lowe's this weekend, along with the Home Depot next town over, so I will look and see if they have a SKU# on the lolly's at either one. I know that the Home depot stocks them, where the rebar and concrete supplies are. Lally Corp has a 800# on their website, but does not give a list of retailers. Here is what homedepot.com shows for "jack" posts http://www.homedepot.com/Building-M...10051&catalogId=10053&Nu=P_PARENT_ID&omni=c_Post-Frame Materials&searchNav=true

 

[gregzoll]

Check with the local builder supplies http://search.yahoo.com/search;_ylt...CHw89DKmN3wV?p=austin,+tx+builder+supplies&fr=att-portal&toggle=1&cop=&ei=UTF-8 They are the ones that are going to have them. I know that it is not the norm to have basements and crawls in Texas, but yes, you should be able to get them.

 

[gregzoll]

Structurally, I wouldn't do it out of brick or concrete block. And yes, the columns are expensive. There is a reason why they cost that much, especially for the Lally's. For the cost to build it out of brick or block, for time & materials, it would be cheaper to get the proper steel support column.

 

[gregzoll]

Check the habitat store in your area, or with a shop that does stuff like custom steel work. They may be able to spec out the proper piping with plate for you. Or even check e-Bay. Some local contractors also may have some lally's left over from a job, that may advertise them in a local shopper. Right now I have an offer for a Lally from a friend for my use, but it needs a new plate welded to the screw part.