What is the process for removing a load-bearing wall?

Author: Pat Kuvalis IV  |  Last update: Saturday, September 6, 2025

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.

Do I need consent to remove a load-bearing wall?

^woody^ Ha, I thought it was a student trick question. Yes removal of a structural wall in a house needs consent not just for the replacement support and load transfer downwards, but consideration for fire safety - means of escape and spread, and electrics if that applies. An engineer is not always required.

Who is qualified to remove a load-bearing wall?

Structural Integrity and Safety:

The structure of your any house should never be compromised. Structural engineers play a crucial role in ensuring that the removal of load bearing walls does not jeopardize the safety of your property and its occupants.

What is the average cost to remove a load-bearing wall?

On average, removing an interior load-bearing wall costs $1,200 to $2,500, depending on the material and whether you have lines and ducts inside that wall that must be rerouted. Most contractors rarely remove exterior walls because they're fundamental to the structure of your home.

Do I need permission to remove a load-bearing wall?

To remove one load-bearing wall, planning permission isn't usually required. However, if you're carrying out other building work, contact your local planning authority to discuss your plans. They will be able to let you know whether you need to apply for planning permission before you proceed.

How to Identify and Remove a Load Bearing Wall | Ask This Old House

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.

Will my house fall down if I remove a load-bearing wall?

Load-bearing walls are integral to your home's structural integrity, supporting weight from the roof and upper floors. Removing a load-bearing wall without proper reinforcement can lead to severe structural damage, including sagging ceilings, cracked walls, or even complete collapse.

Who do you call to remove a load-bearing wall?

An architect, engineer or experienced contractor can tell you which walls must stay and which can go, as well as the work that must be done to replace the load-bearing support, after a thorough inspection of your home.

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 illegal to remove a load-bearing wall?

The short answer is, yes. In most homes, you can remove any portion of a load-bearing wall. However, this depends on what's inside the wall and how you intend to redistribute the weight.

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.

Who can I call to see if a wall is load-bearing?

If you are planning on remodeling your home, you will definitely need the help of a structural engineer. They are experts who calculate load and figure out how your home's walls, foundation, roof, and structure will handle their weight.

How do you remove a load-bearing wall yourself?

Here's a quick rundown of the process I went through:
  1. Spec the beam. ...
  2. Put up temporary supports. ...
  3. Tear down the old wall, including plumbing. ...
  4. Assemble and raise the beam. ...
  5. Fasten beam to joists. ...
  6. Put in beam posts. ...
  7. Reroute heating ducts. ...
  8. Redo flooring.

How much of a load-bearing wall can you take out?

How much of a load-bearing wall can be removed? You can remove all or part of a load-bearing wall as long as there is another way to carry the weight.

Can you put a new door in a load-bearing wall?

A load-bearing wall does not have to be a dead end for the DIY projects you have in mind. It is possible to insert a window or a door into a load-bearing wall, but you have to be very careful to do it in a safe way.

Who checks if a wall is load-bearing?

A structural engineer will be able to confirm whether or not your wall is load-bearing. If it is, they'll also be able to help you remove it by putting another support in place. That way, you can be sure your building remains structurally sound.

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.

Does Lowes sell LVL beams?

Lowe's features LVL in a wide range of lengths, widths and thicknesses. LVL is a straight, strong wood that fights warping and shrinking, providing great stability for your projects. Use an LVL beam to eliminate twisting and splitting for quiet floors.

What size LVL beam for 20 ft span?

According to the LVL User's Guide, a 20-foot span with a 50-pound live load requires an LVL beam with a depth of at least 12 inches. The specific LVL beam that you need will depend on the grade of the LVL, but a common option is a 2x12 grade 300 LVL.

How long does it take to take down a load-bearing wall?

Removing a load-bearing wall is a significant project, and it's essential to understand the time it will take so that you can plan accordingly. The average time it takes to remove a load-bearing or Structural wall is around 1-3 days. However, that can vary depending on the complexity of the project.

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.

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.

What to do before removing a load-bearing wall?

Before removing a load-bearing wall, you must build a temporary wall or bracing structure to support the joists. Plan to install the temporary wall the same day that you remove the load-bearing wall. Build matching support structures on either side of the wall to evenly distribute the load.

Do you need an architect to remove a load-bearing wall?

Building Regulations

Small straightforward work such as the removal of a load bearing wall can be completed on what is called a building notice without the need for full architectural plans.

What happens if you accidentally remove a load-bearing wall?

Accidentally demolishing a load bearing wall without proper supports in place can cause extensive damage to your property. Ken Kucera, vice president at 84 Lumber in Pittsburgh warns, “Removing a load bearing wall could obstruct the integrity of your foundation or even worse, it could bring down the house.”

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