Is it possible that there maybe an RSJ already in a supporting wall?

Question

I want to knock my kitchen through to my dining room. Reckon its a supporting wall as the bathroom wall is directly above. Its a 1930's semi detatched house so all of the walls are solid. A friend of mine done the same thing last year and found that when the wall was knocked down there was an RSJ already there! I think i maybe living in hope and trying to save a few quid but is there anyway of telling??? A long shot i know! Does anyone know what it would cost to be done and could recommend a decent builder in Birmingham, not a cowboy! Thanks.

Answer 1

just knock the wall down you be fine  

Answer 2

Borrow a metal detector. If wooden joist is suspected drill a few holes about 4" from ceiling to check. Chances are slim on one being there. Get a couple of Aqua props and you could do it yourself. Luck.

Answer 3

If you knock off a vertical strip of plastering, then an RSJ will be obvious.

To identify a supporting wall look to see if the floorboards above are parallel with the wall (same direction).

If the floorboards meet the wall at right-angles; then it's not a supporting wall for the joists, but may be for the block/brick bathroom wall. Ask around the neighbours to see which have already done what you propose.  

Answer 4

I suppose you could remove a bit of the ceiling near to the wall and

visually check, that way if no joist, you need to think again.

Answer 5

Lift a floorboard on the first floor near as you can to the wall and have a look.