Platform support ring and method of use

A modified grate comprising:

• a plurality of cross bars installed in or on a surface;
• a plurality of bearing bars installed in or one the surface;
• wherein the plurality of cross bars and the plurality of bearing bars, together, form a grid;
• an aperture bounded and defined by a portion of the plurality of the cross bars and a portion of the plurality of bearing bars, said aperture being configured to receive a construction member therethrough;
• and
• a support ring operably engaged with the grate adjacent the aperture to provide structural support therein.

A method of modifying and strengthening a grate comprising:

• determining a size and location of an aperture to be formed in the grate;
• modifying the grate by forming the aperture in the grate;
• providing a support ring comprising a first ring and a second ring;
• placing the first ring on a top surface of the grate so that the first ring circumscribes the aperture;
• placing the second ring on the bottom surface of the grate so that the second ring circumscribes the aperture;
• and
• securing the first ring and the second ring to one another.