Learning to determine whether a wall is load-bearing can help you properly plan your renovation and avoid unexpected expenses.
If you tear down a load-bearing wall without proper preparation, it could blow your renovation budget.
Luckily, we’ve got several tips and techniques for determining which walls are load-bearing.
Credit:Getty Images / Dana Neely
Getty Images / Dana Neely
What Is a Load-Bearing Wall?
Before removing a wall, always consult with a professional who can confirm whether it’s load-bearing or not.
The tips and tricks below are intended for gathering information before contacting a professional.
Look at Wall Thickness
The thickness of your wall could indicate whether it’s load-bearing or not.
If the joists run parallel to the wall, the wall may not be load-bearing.
Even still, the wall could be load-bearing if it has two joists running parallel on either side.
To identify this, look for small boards connecting two joists on either side of the wall.
Inspect the Roof Bracing
While you’re in the attic, check out theroof system.
Look In the Basement
No luck in the attic?
Headdown to the basementor crawlspace.
Find the wall in question and inspect the space beneath it.
Pay Attention to Wall Location
A wall in the center of a house is likely load-bearing.
When in doubt, inspect your roof system and the direction of the ceiling joists.
Inspect Masonry Walls
Not allmasonry wallsare load-bearing.
Many people incorrectly assume that because a masonry wall looks strong and substantial, it is load-bearing.
The internal wall could still be load-bearing, but the stone would not be the indicator.
Exterior masonry walls are often load-bearing, as is the nature of an exterior wall.
A good contractor is key to a quality construction job.
