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Extensions

Internal walls sitting on sitting on floorboards

Anonymous user 28/02/2024 - 3.57 PM

I have a 1930s semi detached property. The wall between the bathroom and the back bedroom is sitting on the floor boards this runs all the way down to the ground floor, I have been told is the way properties were built back then. I am having an extensions done and the builder is saying that this wall has to be taken down as it is not secured properly and will cause future cracks etc. He wants to replace with plaster board. The structural engineer said this is common in 1930s property and not an issue. Any advice, should I be getting the wall removed? Getting conflicting advice from builder and structural engineer?

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5 Answers

TC Construction (Guildford) Ltd

No reviews yet

Guildford
Most properties around that age were indeed constructed like this and the weight of the wall will be spread across the floor boards and the joist and not being supported by the dividing wall on the ground floor. I would always listen to a Structural Engineer on this matter as the wall could be supporting the existing 1st floor ceiling joists also so a stud wall may not be suitable.
Answered13 January 2021
5

A P Male general builder

Rating: 5 out of 5
Ilminster
I would speak to a structural engineer on this then go from their
Answered13 January 2021
0

MADDISON BUILDERS LTD

Rating: 5 out of 5
Stourbridge
I agree with the above comments. Always go with the structural engineers advice .
Answered14 January 2021
0

Wolfwood Homes Ltd

No reviews yet

Shefford
On matters of this kind I would seek the advice of a structural engineer, they will be able to advise you on whether or not the existing wall needs replacing. If it does need replacing they will also be able to provide the correct construction detail to be followed.
Answered15 January 2021
0

W Scott Building Services

No reviews yet

Batley
If your removing the upper wall then it’s fine, I’d firstly check in the loft if ceiling joists arnt relying on this wall as support tho! Probably not. The lower wall which sits directly under the upper wall will almost certainly be taking the “sag” of your ground floor ceiling joists / (bedroom joists) If this wall is staying, then that’s fine, If you want this wall out, then I’d recommend fitting a steel beam (RSJ) and your Engineer will have to provide you with the load calculations for this and to satisfy Building Regulations. £250 approx should be enough for this. Fitting steel Beam, removal of wall(s) approx £1,800 to £3k Really hope this helps.
Answered16 January 2021
0