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.
Meet Kimberly Jokela:
With a genuine passion in people Kimberly loves helping her clients make their real estate dreams or needs come to life! Specializing in Luxury, Vacation, Retirement or Investment properties.
Born and raised in the midwest in a family with a strong work ethic, filled with creativity & dedication.
Her determination lead her to attend college at the "Philadelphia Performing Arts" where she had the opportunity to follow her passion in the Arts & to travel. Living in California with her husband Rick for 15 years together they built a successful business. After the birth of her beautiful daughter Brittany, seeking a "small town” coastal lifestyle, they took a trip to Naples Florida & fell in love with all it has to offer and made the jump!
With now over 17 years experience as a licensed Realtor serving Naples, Bonita Springs, Marco Island, Estero & Fort Myers.
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