How much does it cost to remove a load-bearing wall and replace with a beam?

Author: Alfredo Connelly  |  Last update: Wednesday, October 15, 2025

Hiring a pro to replace a load-bearing wall with a beam costs $3,300, though the price depends on the type of support beam you need. Other types of beams may include: Laminated lumber beams: 5.25" x 13.75" x 16' Glulam beam costs about $440.

How much does it cost to remove a load-bearing wall and install a beam?

The cost of this project can vary based on factors such as the size of the wall, the structural complexity, and any additional work required. On average, homeowners can expect to spend between $3,000 to $15,000 for such a renovation, including the cost of installing a beam if necessary.

Can you remove a load-bearing wall and replace with a beam?

Load-bearing walls support the weight of the house and are different from non-load-bearing walls. Removing a load-bearing wall involves careful planning, design, and skilled labour. After removing the wall, it must be replaced with a beam that spans the entire space or with a beam and supplemental vertical posts. 2.

How much is a 20 foot load-bearing beam?

20 ft LVL beam price

On average, the price of a 20 ft lvl beam can range from $150 to $300. It is recommended to check with us for specific pricing.

Is it worth removing a load-bearing wall?

Structural Implications: Removing a load-bearing wall without proper support can compromise the structural integrity of your home. This can lead to sagging floors, cracks in walls, and other costly issues. Cost: Load-bearing wall removal is not a budget-friendly renovation if you're undertaking this as a DIY project.

The REAL Cost to Remove a Load Bearing Wall

Will a house collapse if a load-bearing wall is removed?

Most homeowners are afraid that if they remove a load-bearing wall, the house will collapse. While this could be a possibility in certain situations, it's unlikely.

What kind of beam for a load-bearing wall?

Pro Tip: Load-bearing beams are usually wood, but steel beams provide additional strength and support over long spans. Steel beams can enhance a room that has a modern, industrial design.

How much does it cost to replace a structural beam?

Beam replacement costs an average of $3,400, while a repair will cost closer to $1,500. You'll also pay far less in build-back if you repair your beam rather than replace it since your pro will have less demolition to do to access the parts that need repairs.

What is the price of a 20 foot beam?

Galvanized 20 Feet Iron H Beam, Thickness: 4 Mm at ₹ 50/kg in Jaipur | ID: 21711689448.

How much weight can a 6x12 beam support?

If the 6 x 12 is a Select Structural, then it will support 10,300 lbs. and deflect about 1/4”. BTW, I recommend the window (vinyl, wood, whatever) that you are going to install below this beam should NOT be secured at the head in the middle one-half of the span.

What needs to happen before removing a load-bearing wall?

If you want to remove a load-bearing wall, then you will need a reinforced steel joint installed to support the floor above. Structural engineers can calculate the load and create diagrams. A builder will then work with a fabricator to produce a steel joist and provide delivery.

How much does it cost to remove a load-bearing wall and install a beam in the UK?

The walls that are most frequently removed are typically those separating the kitchen, dining room, and living room, as well as exterior walls for conservatories. On average, the cost of removing a wall ranges from £1,250 to £1,750, while the installation of structural supports typically costs between £800 and £950.

Is it OK to remove one stud from a load-bearing wall?

The short answer is, yes. In most homes, you can remove any portion of a load-bearing wall.

Can you remove a load-bearing wall without an engineer?

How to Remove a Loadbearing Wall. You need the expert knowledge of a Structural Engineer who will create the signed and sealed engineering plans to remove the wall and provide adequate support with an alternative, like a beam or column. These plans are required for permitting.

How much does it cost to find out if a wall is load-bearing?

A proper structural inspection can determine if the wall is load-bearing or not. Structural inspections typically cost $300 to $700, not including drawing up plans. If a beam specification is required, this typically costs $400 + $100 for each additional beam.

Can a contractor remove a load-bearing wall?

More often than not, you'll need a permit from your local municipality before you remove a load-bearing wall. If hiring a contractor, they should acquire the permit, as it holds them liable for any construction problems that may arise.

Which is cheaper I-beam or H beam?

H-Beams Cost Less Than I-Beams For The Same Amount of Structural Support.

How big of a beam to span 30 feet?

You can use a W14x38 (50 ksi) steel beam for your 30' clear span beam. The beam is 6.75” wide and 14.125” deep.

How much does it cost to replace a supporting wall with a beam?

Hiring a pro to replace a load-bearing wall with a beam costs $3,300, though the price depends on the type of support beam you need. Other types of beams may include: Laminated lumber beams: 5.25" x 13.75" x 16' Glulam beam costs about $440. Sawn timber beam: 8” x 12” x 16' long beam is about $290.

How to take down a load-bearing wall?

Steps for Removing a Load-Bearing Wall
  1. Install temporary 2×4 braces on either side of wall to support the ceiling above.
  2. Use reciprocating saw to cut through wall plaster.
  3. Carefully cut away wood lath to reveal bare wall studs.
  4. Use reciprocating saw to cut through wall directly above each wall stud.

What is the difference between a structural beam and a joist?

A beam is the main load-bearing structural element of a roof. It supports the weight of joists and other building elements. On the other hand, a joist is a horizontal member that generally runs across a building and is supported by a beam.

How much does it cost to install a load-bearing beam?

The cost typically falls between $1,000 to $3,000, depending on factors such as the wood type, length, finish, and whether the beams are solid or hollow. For load-bearing wooden beams on the ceiling, the costs might be on the higher side, reaching up to $5,000 or more, depending on the aforementioned factors.

Is it safe to replace a load-bearing wall with a beam?

Usually, this is not a problem since the original load-bearing wall likely was built over an underlying beam or foundation structure below the floor. But in rare instances, it may be necessary to add some form of additional support under the bottoms of the jack studs.

What is the alternative to a load-bearing wall?

The most common support system used to replace a load-bearing wall is a beam under the ceiling and columns or posts which carry the weight down to the foundation. This method is popular because it does not require alterations to joists or framing above the beam. It's simple and effective.

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