An open-concept floor plan is great if you want to maximize your space and make your interior look more spacious. To achieve this design, people typically decide to remove a wall in their kitchen so they can increase their square footage and make their space feel more open.
To help ensure you’re making the right choice, Nuss Construction Company shares some important things to consider before you knock down a kitchen wall.
Since every wall is built differently, it’s important to know whether or not your wall is safe to remove. There are wires, plumbing parts, ducts and pipes that could get affected by wall removal, which could significantly impact your home’s functionality and structure. Before starting the project, call an expert who can assess the wall you want to tear down and the areas around it.
Generally, homes have two types of walls: load-bearing and partition walls. The former provides structural support to the house while the latter acts as space dividers. Both wall types are removable, but load-bearing walls are more complicated to tear down. Removing them without additional supports, such as pillars and beams, could lead to major structural damage. And even if you’re removing partition walls, it’s still best to check if they are crucial to holding up your ceiling joists. This will also inform you about whether or not you need to add beams for extra support.
A reroute will be required if the wall you want to knock down includes wires, plumbing pipes or cables. This process is complicated and may require the expertise of plumbers and electricians. It’s also worth noting that not all walls are connected to your ductwork or plumbing system, but most walls have electrical wires running through them.
The taller your house, the more expensive and labor-intensive the wall removal will be. For example, removing the wall of a two-story house will force the other walls to hold up the second form. In this case, you need a structural engineer to help oversee the project and ensure that the necessary measures will be taken.
Looking for remodeling experts to help with your kitchen remodel? Nuss Construction Company has a team of professionals who has the experience and skills to renovate your cooking space. To schedule a consultation, call us at (856) 988-9982, or complete our contact form.