All my research has told me that if the wall runs the same direction as the joists/rafters, its not a load bearing wall. Then at the end, they say that this applies to newer construction only. Who do I get in to consult? A structural engineer, architect, contractor.
2006-11-29 06:08:56 · 4 answers · asked by bonawizer 1 in Home & Garden ➔ Decorating & Remodeling
if the wall runs the same direction the the wall holds no weight.
if its on a second floor then you should be fine.
if you plan on tearing out the wall regardles tear off the plaster and lattice work hope you like huge messes
leave the studs there till you can get a closer look at what really is going on worst case senario you will have to put a headder in there depending on the length of the opening you want will detrmine what you will need to use as a headder best of luck to you
2006-11-29 06:40:24 · answer #1 · answered by Gabe 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Generally in the older houses roof loads are carried in the exterior walls and in a central core wall.. Walls between rooms can be load bearing as well, if the wall runs parallel to floor joists good chance it is just a partition wall, but if perpendicular to the joists it is bearing some weight. An SE would be able to provide you with the information you require..
2006-11-29 06:19:25 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
The results of your research are generally correct. However, in very old homes- especially log or frame construction- this can prove incorrect.
If the wall is on the first floor, check to see if there is a wall above the one you want to tear out. If there is one, whether it is parallel or perpindicular to it, do NOT remove it. If there is no wall above you are probably safe. but you might want to place a beam in it's place.
If the wall is log, don't take it out no matter what... I had a house built in 1767 and with great effort removed part of an interior log wall. I lost my roof... 'nuff said.
2006-11-29 06:21:15 · answer #3 · answered by bikeworks 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
call a contractor, u cheapest way out, he should be able to tell u in no time at all if it load bearing....or u can tear out the sheetrock/plaster and email me and tell me what u see and i can tell ya.....
lic. gen. contractor
2006-11-29 06:59:29 · answer #4 · answered by bigg_dogg44 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋