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advise on load bearing wall removal

14 years ago

as part of remodeling, we are trying to remove two walls (marked "X" in the picture of lengths 36" and 84"). These walls are located in the first floor directly below our master bedroom and master bath. We have a finished basement on the floor below these walls.

We believe the side wall (113")is load bearing since we see a header beam running in the basement. I'm assuming the upper floor must use the same construction. There is a wall in the identical place in the second floor (wall of master bath).

To remove the 84" wall the idea is to create a header and put two supporting post in the either end of the walls (length 174"). We are fine without a flushed ceiling.

We are not DIYers and the contractor suggest to use Simpson Double Shear Joist Hangers for the side wall (36") opening. ANy thoughts on how complicated this is? Is it a reasonable approach?

Comments (8)

macv
14 years ago
I must defer to your contractor because he should know what the loads above are, what supports them now and what will support the new jamb studs at the new headers and I don't.

A double shear connector just uses angled full sized nails that act as connector nails and toe-nails at the same time. I have no way of knowing if that is necessary or appropriate.

In designing a structure modification it is necessary to start at the highest point and add up the live and dead loads down to the modified element and then follow the new load path from there to the foundation providing the necessary transfer headers, connections, ties, and braces. As far as I can tell, you have not supplied any of that information.
karen_belle
14 years ago
You should be consulting an engineer, not the contractor.
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Removing the wallpaper in the kitchen would be a big improvement. Wood is ‘in’ plus is classic, and the cabinets look to be in good condition. With a warm white paint on the walls and new countertops, this kitchen would be very nice. And add some under cabinet lighting, if it’s not already there. Maybe down the line, a floor update to wood or wood look vinyl planks or even stone look LVP - but I don’t know if that is even necessary. Personally, I would consider doing these minor kitchen updates, prior to moving in. These couple of changes would make a big difference. As far as the wall:: Personally, there is no way I would remove it. Not only is it load bearing... but it serves an important aesthetic function. Open concept is really a bit overdone, at this point. Everyone is not interested in sitting in the living room and looking smack into the kitchen. Plus, with your setup, I think you would also have a grand view of the kitchen from the foyer - without that load bearing wall there. I would personally have zero interest in spending a ton of money and tearing up a house for the end result of less privacy and less graciousness. But it is a matter of personal preference, of course.
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jlnjz
14 years ago
Definitely consult a structural engineer for this issue do NOT rely on your contractor...when you have the engineer look at it they could say "can't be done" when they really mean "can't be done unless you're willing to pay a lot". Having said that, what is a lot to the engineer may be worthwhile to you in order to accomplish your goal so ask "what would it take to do this"
sethuvs
Original Author
14 years ago
Thanks for the input. I have a structural engineer come in to evaluate. I just didn't know if there is a possiblity to remove this wall (36") without a post/column. From the contractor this seemed like a typical thing so decided to check in this forum.
karen_belle
14 years ago
Seth, as an engineer and a person who just struggled with my GC about a load bearing wall, I can tell you that

1) pretty much anything is possible regarding load-carrying structures if you have the money

2) not all contractors know their engineering.

I hope the engineer has some good suggestions for you. In my case we were able to move roof load to the exterior wall by using a flush beam, some big lag bolts and a special joist hangar [that the GC had to order]. Even tho the GC wanted a drop beam or a column, the engineer figured out a better solution, and it didn't even cost us extra. But I only have a single story to worry about.

Good luck, I look forward to hearing what the suggestions are!
macv
14 years ago
Your situation might only involve simple headers over the removed walls if there is structure below to properly support the new posts. You need to describe the loads above and the structure below for anyone to help you. In your description is it not clear which walls are over perimeter bearing walls and which are over a central basement girder (if there is one).
worthy
14 years ago
As a builder, over the years I've found experienced carpenters have been able to suggest alternative, satisfactory (and simpler) solutions to load-bearing situations than those devised by the engineer. But I always run it by the engineer to be sure. A true professional is not insulted by collaboration.
brickeyee
14 years ago
"As a builder, over the years I've found experienced carpenters have been able to suggest alternative, satisfactory (and simpler) solutions to load-bearing situations than those devised by the engineer."

As a PE a common problem I encounter when removing sections of weight bearing wall in residential construction is making sure the weight is transferred below the removed section adequately.

Many of the 'ad hoc' header systems fail to even consider the point loads created by eliminating the wall section and installing a larger header, especially when there is framing below the altered opening.

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