If you’re remodeling your home, it’s important to know the difference between load bearing and non load bearing walls. While you can usually assume that interior walls are non load bearing, every property is built differently.
Consulting a professional is always recommended and a great way to determine where your load bearing walls are; however, this basic guide can help you identify and provide some information on safe removal of non load bearing walls for your remodeling project:
A load bearing wall is any wall that supports the weight of the roof and upper floors. Load bearing walls are specifically built to distribute the weight evenly all the way down through the foundation of the house.
Most exterior walls of a building are load bearing. However, a load bearing wall can also be an interior wall. To find out if a wall is supporting the structure, check if it is perpendicular to the joists. If it’s perpendicular, it’s likely load bearing. If parallel, it is likely a non load bearing wall.
Consult blueprints or building plans to get a better understanding of the wall placement. However, it’s best to hire a professional contractor or inspector to help you identify the load bearing walls in your home before you make any major changes.
The safest way to remove a load bearing wall is with professional assistance. Not only will you need an inspection and building permit, but you may have to cap off or reroute utility lines in the wall. This might include electrical wiring, pipes and HVAC ductwork. It’s also likely that you’ll need to remove and relocate things like light switches or outlets.
A professional structural engineer will take necessary steps to create support for the weight above the wall once it is removed. There are a few methods for creating temporary supports, including use of steel columns and 2×4 studs. A contractor can help you determine which method is best for your particular situation.
Load bearing walls are essential to a structure and can be difficult to remove. If you’re planning major remodeling in your home, keep these tips in mind before making any major changes.
I am an experienced Real Estate Professional who has anchored rich relationships within the Greater Cincinnati and Suburban Area Regions. I analyze the market multiple times throughout the day in order to optimize the search criteria of my clients. The knowledge and experience I have attained over the years has led to thousands of lives to being positively impacted through purchasing and selling real estate. My dynamic commitment to the success of others has allowed me to help many individuals and families realize their dreams. Wouldn't you want to be Real Satisfied with the service you receive?
Collaborating with Coldwell Banker West Shell, we possess the technology and other remarkable industry-leading resources to help you connect with the best possible property for you. We have your best interest as our TOP PRIORITY!
My extensive history in Management within Butler, Warren, and Hamilton counties empowers you, my client, to benefit from the richness of the diverse markets and resources that are an integral part of the real estate relationship.
I desire to be in sync with your goals. YOU are my focus. YOU are my business.
