Wood frame walls are very common in single-family residential properties. Load bearing wood frame walls carry floor or roof loads from above. Partition (non-load bearing) walls do not. However, they are built the same way. Both have bottom plates, studs and double top plates, typically.
The last few weeks I have had several students and friends ask me how a person can tell if a wall in their home is load bearing or not? The answer lies in what’s above and below them.
1. Partition walls have no structural elements beneath them to transfer the loads to the foundations and footing.
2. Load bearing walls must have foundations, beams and columns, or another wall system below them to transfer the loads to the soil.
3. Load bearing walls have ends of floor or ceiling joists resting on them.
4. If there is another wall directly or almost directly above the wall, it’s probably a bearing wall. When removing the wall would remove the support for structural members above, it’s a load bearing wall.
5. Door openings in partition walls do not normally require lintels (headers). Openings in lead bearing walls do need lintels. (headers)
If you are still unsure, a few questions to a qualified contractor or handyman could be a wise choice and will save you a lot of headaches.
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If you would like the chance to work with me or one of my fellow real estate investor coaches and our advanced training programs, give us a call anytime to see if Dean's Real Estate Success Academy and our customized curriculum is a fit for you. Call us at 1-877-219-1474 ext. 125
Wood frame walls are very common in single-family residential properties. Load bearing wood frame walls carry floor or roof loads from above. Partition (non-load bearing) walls do not. However, they are built the same way. Both have bottom plates, studs and double top plates, typically.
The last few weeks I have had several students and friends ask me how a person can tell if a wall in their home is load bearing or not? The answer lies in what’s above and below them.
1. Partition walls have no structural elements beneath them to transfer the loads to the foundations and footing.
2. Load bearing walls must have foundations, beams and columns, or another wall system below them to transfer the loads to the soil.
3. Load bearing walls have ends of floor or ceiling joists resting on them.
4. If there is another wall directly or almost directly above the wall, it’s probably a bearing wall. When removing the wall would remove the support for structural members above, it’s a load bearing wall.
5. Door openings in partition walls do not normally require lintels (headers). Openings in lead bearing walls do need lintels. (headers)
If you are still unsure, a few questions to a qualified contractor or handyman could be a wise choice and will save you a lot of headaches.
If you would like the chance to work with me or one of my fellow real estate investor coaches and our advanced training programs, give us a call anytime to see if Dean's Real Estate Success Academy and our customized curriculum is a fit for you. Call us at 1-877-219-1474 ext. 125