I am considering creating a living space in my unfinished basement (2-year old home). However, directly at the bottom of the stairs to the basement, there is a heat duct that dips under an I-beam (for 2x8 joists). Since the duct is only 6 feet from the finished concrete floor, it will become an obstacle, once boxed-in and drywalled. Can the duct be relocated above the I-beam (the duct is 22" wide by 8" high). Could I use the same method I see employed for the windows in the basement (an extra 2x8 on either side of window to support a joist hanger) Is this a structural design change that would require a professional to draw up the design?
Answer:
You should be able to do this yourself but you'll probably have to have a segment of plenum made so you don't restrict air flow. Any heating duct installer will be able to do this part for you and the obstacle is gone.
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