Both are incredibly harmful, especially when crews disturb them during demolition. The two primary culprits to look out for are asbestos and lead-based paint. Plan Around Hazardous Substances in the Wall.That said, below you’ll find the five basic steps that generally apply to most load-bearing wall replacement projects. This is why consulting with a licensed engineer is always a good way to kick off such an alteration. The steps needed to replace a load-bearing wall with a support beam will ultimately hinge on the specifics of your property. How to Replace a Load-Bearing Wall With a Support Beam - Five Essential Steps With the help of a professional engineer, the plan check process can be a breeze - you won’t be stuck waiting through countless review cycles.

Keep in mind that failing to obtain a permit may lead to issues when you try to sell the property with the unpermitted alteration. Your building officials want to ensure that you, your family, and any future occupants are protected from errors that could lead to injury and property damage.Įven if you have construction experience and are treating your load-bearing wall removal as a DIY project, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and get a permit. Knocking down walls is a permitted activity in California, and it’s for good reason: safety. Read on to learn more! First and Foremost - Get a Permit For Your Load-Bearing Wall Removal Project In this post, we’ll walk you through the five essential steps to replace a load-bearing wall with a support beam and give you a few tips along the way. All you need is a bit of planning, professional assistance, and a quality contractor.

Whether you’d like to create an open-concept layout or enlarge your living space, replacing a load-bearing wall with a support beam is simple.

Install support beam above wall