[hswerdfe]

I opened up a wall in my basement and found a vertical post splitting (see Pic).

http://flic.kr/p/dvFDME

This post about 5' high and is supporting a 3x3 landing by my side door, and some roof weight is being transferred to this column also.
The house is from the 60s and I have no idea how long it has been like this.

I was wondering what the best method would be to repair this issue?
I found this on ehow.com http://tinyurl.com/aegtpq5

Can anybody give and further details on how to go about this?

Thanks.

 

[joecaption]

Just looks like normal checking. I'd be more concered with the funky framing above it.
Impossible to even tell what that mess is all about.

 

[oh'mike]

Yep---Joe is right---that's a heart check----not a big concern----a shot from further back would let us know if the check migrates to the edge of the timber---If so, then you do have a concern.

 

[woodworkbykirk]

nothing to be concerned about. its old dried out lumber.. as long as you dont hit it with a axe...

 

[hswerdfe]

Thanks for your help and reassurances.
mike yes the check runs the whole length of the post. top to bottom.
but I have no idea how deep it goes or what's on the other side.
Joe I think the 2x8 is the supporting header with a column above that transferring load from the roof, the rest of the mess I think is part of what I think is a non-structural wall that built around the post.

but hey who knows...anything is possible in an old house.:whistling2:

 

[oh'mike]

If you are concerned there are ways to add to that---anything from a complete replacement--to adjustable lally columns --to sistering a new post along side of the old one----