Load Bearing Wall: the process of removing one

Load Bearing Wall Removal

If you want to let more light into your home, make way to enjoy a spectacular view, or simply to eliminate an unattractive building, you'll need to take down some walls within your home. But, what are the things you have to watch out for prior to cutting them down?
A wonderful customer of ours has recently had issues prior to contacting us. 
"The wall that was between the kitchen and living area was blocking the stunning views of Lake. We wanted to open the kitchen, and install the bar in place. We employed an architect who told us that it wasn't a load bearing wall , and that I could proceed and take it down. So, my children and I smashed it down ourselves and removed the wall that was half-way up.
The next day we realized that the door to the pantry didn't open due to it rubbing with the ceiling. This was when we discovered that it was sliding and falling down.
We contacted Denver Structural Engineers, who was recommended by an acquaintance. Scott arrived at the home, looked at the wall and told us it was a load bearing wall , and we should take action to fix it.
He designed a wall-removal and flush beam that would be erected to support the weight of the attic and second story. The work began and was finished in just 5 hours. ."

Four Steps Using the Flush Beam Approach

Step 1 : Set Up
Set up a plastic to shield other areas of the home from damage that could result by removing the old wall.
Step 2: Install Temporary Wall
Create the temporary wall that will help support the load as we put in the beams. This is to ensure there isn't any additional destruction caused to the structural structure. Because of its weight, the whole upper level and the attic contributes to the fall of the ceiling.
Step 3: Create Space
The next step is to create space for the two beams flush which will be installed in accordance with an engineer's designs. This means cutting out some space and cutting two beams flush to perfectly fit into the space we have created.
Fourth Step: Setup the Flush Beams
After we've made space for it, we have to place the two beams in place one at a time. We made a hole on the beam's side to allow a wire to pass through, and then checked to make sure it was holding up the weight of the wall that was above it. The idea is to transfer the load initially supported by the wall through the two beams which carry the load vertically, and to the lower beams which are joined with the foundation.

If you are planning on removing any wall in your home or business, contact our professionals for an inspection to make sure the wall can be safely removed without causing structural issues.