Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Lally Column?
A Lally column is an architectural term for a long, round, steel pipe oriented vertically to provide support to beams or timbers stretching over long spans. Lally columns are typically positioned in the middle of the span to bear the weight of the structure, and to reduce the tendency of the structure to sag or flex. The lally column is usually, but not always, filled with concrete to provide additional rigidity and strength. These columns can almost always be found in the basement of most residential buildings and homes. (source: Wikipedia)

Where did the term “Lally” come from?
The lally column is named after an Irish inventor, John Lally, who owned a construction company that started production of these columns in the late 1800s.
(source: Wikipedia)

Why do people usually remove their Lally columns?
Removing the Lally columns in your home allows you to create and improve spaces that were awkward and unusable before. Basements without Lally columns can be made into beautiful home theaters, game rooms, and play rooms. Garages without Lally columns are easier to organize, easier to park in, and simply more useful.

How much does it cost to remove the columns?
As little as $2,500 and as much as $15,000, depending on the number of columns and the span/size of the existing and required beams. The price is also affected by whether the existing beam is flush or drop. An accurate estimate will be given to you on site once the existing conditions are noted.

How long does it take to complete the removal?
The actual removal of the columns will take between one and two days, depending upon the scope of the project. The start of the project will rely upon the timing of the issuance of the town permit.

What are the payment terms?
50% of the total cost is due prior to the start of the project in order to schedule the work, order necessary materials, and begin the permit process. The balance is due the day the project is completed.

What materials do you use to replace the columns?
Steel plates, steel c-channels, and steel beams are all possible materials used. In some cases, fiberglass plates, c-channels and beams can be used also. Existing conditions will dictate the appropriate materials.

How do I know that my home will be safely supported with this new material?
All of our reinforcements are designed by our structural engineers and approved by your town building department. In fact, it is likely that removing the Lally columns and replacing them with beam reinforcements will improve the structural support in your home.

Will there be any settling in my home after the support columns are removed?
Very little settling, if any, will be experienced but not likely noticeable.

Are there instances where columns cannot be safely removed?
Usually, we can remove most, if not all, of the columns up to a certain span. Field conditions, load factors and existing framing will determine the feasibility of removing any particular column.

What if my Lally columns are not exposed?
Even if your columns are not exposed, they can be located and removed. This may be provide you the opportunity to remove load bearing walls and change the layout of that area of your home.

Is there a warranty on the work?
Yes...LallyGone offers a limited lifetime warranty.

Does LallyGone do any finish work?
No... any sheetrock repair, paint, etc as a result of the project will need to be completed by you or your home improvement contractor.

Do I need any special insurance coverage during this project?
No. Most homeowner’s insurance policies should cover this work, but we recommend checking with your insurance carrier to verify your coverage specifics.

Do I need a permit from my town?
Yes. LallyGone will handle the filing and obtaining of the necessary permit. You will be responsible for any permit fees.

What town inspections are involved, if any?
There will be one required inspection by the town building inspector which will occur shortly after the project is complete. LallyGone will schedule the inspection for you, but you are responsible to attend the inspection. In the rare instance that work is required by the town to pass, LallyGone will handle this work at no additional cost to you, assuming it is part of the original project scope.

Is LallyGone a licensed contractor?
LallyGone, LLC is a franchise-type company that trains and licenses our exclusive process to carefully screened and qualified contractors. All of LallyGone’s partner contractors are licensed as required by their individual state laws governing home improvement contractors. The contract between you and your LallyGone installer will list the requisite license number.

I live outside of New Jersey. Do you provide LallyGone’s services anywhere else?
Presently LallyGone is offering our services within the tri-state area of New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania as well as Minnesota and Western Wisconsin. We are working on expanding nationwide wherever lally columns need to be liberated! Contact us if you are interested in becoming a certified partner.