Remove load bearing wall

1/7/2016 at 12:14:15 PM

The rule of thumb is that you need a minimum bearing of 600mm on either side (6") of the opening. However with any questions, concerns, for the relatively low cost of an engineered drawing (5 to 6 hundred dollars), it is always best to have it designed properly and then executed by a knowledgable professional.

Hope this helps.

Fred Carroll

KCL Residential Construction Services

1/7/2016 at 12:38:36 PM

Norm,

A picture would be beneficial so we could see what is there and what you want to do. If it is indeed a bearing wall that you are "disturbing" I would suggest you speak with a structural engineer or get advise from a building inspector. In Edmonton, you cluld call The Inspections Group or Superior Inspections. Either can provide you with basic building codes information. You should ensure that any cutting won't have an adverse affect on the structure. The inspector can advise you.

1/7/2016 at 4:53:36 PM

Hi Fred,

It is always advice able to do any Structural modifications by proper and legal way for couple of reasons.

1) For peace of mind for your self, and safety of your family.

2) Structural Engineer is the best way to go and would also involve city if that is a requirement.

3) Insurance point of view if any thing happens to structure down the road and if they find out modifications were done without proper procedure they can refuse to pay for the claim.

4) Last would be from resale point of view if you sell the property the very first thing Home Inspector would ask is how the work was executed, any drawings, city permit were taken and if you say none then the buyer may have a red flag. How safe is the work done?

Looking to all the aspect I would say better to do it FIRST TIME right. A few $ more but in long run its well paid off.

This is my advise to all my clients and if they want to cut corners I would have a wavier signed and let them come with a plan what they want to do it and if it sounds ok then only I execute or tell them to get it done by third party. Just walk away if I am not confident.

Hope this helps.

A Budget Construction LTD.

Nitin

1/7/2016 at 6:33:25 PM

Our suggestion would be to get an engineer to calculate the load to figure out if it was okay.

1/9/2016 at 8:01:18 AM

Hi Norm,

Nitin summed it up very well why we in the renovation business hire the services of an engineer.

Generally their cost will include the inspection once you have completed the beam install but before you install drywall. He will also tell you how to properly support the structure, joists etc with temporary walls while you do your beam replacement.

The engineer's drawings, notes and specs will ensure your home is safe for you and your family.

Dave