Load Bearing Wall - Not Full Removal?

Question

I am looking at buying a house that has a wall that separates the kitchen from family room. The wall is not attached to any exterial walls, so I am assuming that it is not load bearing. If it is, though, am I able to cut out a a center portion of the wall without removing the top? Ceilings are popcorn and I don't want to start another project within a project. Or, can I remove just the top half of the wall. There is elelctrical outlets and switches on the wall.

Answer 1

You need to determine the direction of the celling rafters.  Then if the wall runs down the middle of the house perpendicular to the celling rafters odds are it is load bearing.

You can remove a load bearing wall by first supporting the celling on each side - remove the wall - install a hidden header that is supported on each end.  Then you are good to go.  As to the electric, typically (in Illinois) the electric at some point will drop down the wall from the celling and then snake through the walls.  Rarely does it first come up from floor and then snake through the walls.  That said trying to remove the top half of the wall may not work because the electric will be in the way/visible.

Please get a professional to evaluate.

Answer 2

WHOA!!  Don't assume a wall is not load bearing simply because it is not on the exterior!!!!

Your project is still possible however--The removal of a section within a load-bearing wall *is* possible.  You end up adding a load-bearing beam, supported on either end.  This, being a structural change, should be handled by professionals.

If you are at all unsure, I would *strongly* suggest having the wall inspected before tackling a project with the possibility of such dire consequences. (e.g. falling down on you while you sleep!)

Good luck!

Answer 3

Call an engineer or an architect. This is a situation that varies with each house. Even if it is a bearing wall I think it could be removed and then it must be replaced with a support beam to replace the strength you removed.  Call a professional for this project.