Sage-Tips

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

Replacing a load-bearing wall with a support beam costs $4,000 to $10,000. Hiring a structural engineer for load-bearing wall removal calculations runs $300 to $1,000. Creating a kitchen pass-through costs $1,000 to $4,000. Get free estimates from wall removal contractors near you or view our cost guide below.

Is removing a wall a structural change?

A structural remodel refers to residential remodeling that involves fixing, changing, removing, or adding any load bearing elements. A load could either refer to weight or pressure. These elements could include posts, beams, columns, and of course, the home’s walls and foundation.

Can a load bearing wall be removed?

You can remove either type of wall, but if the wall is load bearing, you have to take special precautions to support the structure during removal, and to add a beam or other form of support in its place. Ceiling or floor joists that are spliced over the wall, or end at the wall, mean the wall is bearing.

What happens if load bearing wall is removed?

Removing a load bearing wall may create structural problems in a home, including sagging ceilings, unleveled floors, drywall cracks, and sticking doors. Removal of load bearing walls without properly supporting the load they’re carrying may occasionally result in a structural collapse and even injury.

What happens if you knock out a load bearing wall?

Do interior walls need headers?

All doors are set into a frame, an opening inside the wall. Exterior door frames must have a top header stout enough to bear the load. Interior doors also need that top header, but it can be of less sturdy material, typically the same 2-by-4-inch lumber used for wall studs.

How much of a load bearing wall can be removed UK?

How Much to Remove a Load-Bearing Internal Wall in 2021?

Size of Wall	Estimated Supply Cost	Structural Engineer Cost
One metre RSJ	£120	£200 – £300
Four metre RSJ	£240	£200 – £300
Six metre RSJ	£360	£200 – £300