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How to assess whether the wall is load bearing
Anonymous user 16/03/2024 - 2.40 PM
Hi, I'm planning to remove a wall between kitchen and living room, and it seems that it is non load bearing. I had a couple of builders coming in, and all of them had a different opinion whether it is load bearing or not. How can I check if it is actually load bearing or not? Should I invite a structural engineer for an inspection, or it is a job for some other professional? Thanks in advance!
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3 Answers
Anonymous user
Hello, the main element to check for on an internal wall would be to see if any of your first floor joist are sitting on the wall. Or you may potentially have further brickwork above the wall. If you do not have a solid wall on the first floor that is sitting on the wall below, the next step would be to see if the first floor joist are being supported by the wall. You would need to remove the floor coverings upstairs to check if your floor joists are running perpendicular to the potential load bearing wall. If they are, it is more than likely to be a load bearing wall. However, if you are still unsure you could either ask a competent builder or a structural engineer will give you the answer. I hope this helps!
Answered1 February 2021
11
Attention To Detail London Ltd
Rating: 5 out of 5
It is always best to seek the opinion of a professional Structural Engineer, especially if many builders have given you different answers.
Answered5 February 2021
3
CA&D Architects
Rating: 5 out of 5
Look at the floorboards on the first floor.if they are running parallel to the wall then the joists will be sitting on the wall at right angles and it is load bearing.
Answered6 February 2021
0