Four Seasons Sotheby's Int'l Realty
Four Seasons Sotheby's Int'l Realty
Darren Sherburne, Four Seasons Sotheby's Int'l RealtyPhone: (802) 598-4584
Email: [email protected]

Non load bearing walls: What they are & how to remove them

by Darren Sherburne 05/15/2023

If you’re planning a major remodel of your home, you’ll need to know about safely removing non load bearing walls. Most interior walls you are likely to remove during a remodeling project are non load bearing, but it’s important to know how to identify them before you begin demolition.

As always with significant renovation projects, consult a professional before you get into your home renovation.

Here is a basic guide to non load bearing walls:

What are examples of non load bearing walls?

Walls in your home exist for many reasons other than bearing loads. Here are some examples of non load bearing walls you’re likely to have in your house:

  • Closet walls.
  • Interior basement walls.
  • Walls between bedrooms.
  • Angular walls covering corners.

What is the best way to remove a non load bearing wall?

While demolishing a wall might make you think of sledgehammers, it’s much safer and more effective to remove non load bearing walls piece by piece. The basic strategy for safely removing a non load bearing wall is to begin with the outside layers and work inward.

It may seem simple, but it’s essential to hire professional help for removing walls of any kind. Even if the wall is not load bearing, you will need to install headers to support the weight from above. Removing a wall also requires altering electrical circuits, plumbing or gas pipes and HVAC ductwork in a safe and precise manner. Pipes and wires will either need to be capped off or redirected.

For safety reasons, it’s recommended that you consult an engineer or other construction professional for help removing a non load bearing wall. They can make sure all changes adhere to building codes and will keep you and your home safe in the future.

Keep this in mind when planning a major remodel of your home, and plan accordingly, so you have the support you need.

About the Author
Author

Darren Sherburne

I was born and raised in the town of Newbury, Vermont. Before, during, and after obtaining my Bachelor’s degree from Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island, I worked in the hospitality industry throughout New England. One of my proudest achievements is being one of the youngest Certified Sommeliers, having passed the exam at the age of 21. 

Each client and customer comes to the table with a different set of needs and wants. Utilizing my career history and life experience allows me to apply those elements to each Real Estate endeavor. I take great pride in providing a creative and innovative experience to everyone I work with by utilizing current technology and trends. I also provide professional-level photography and videography including production not only for my seller clients but also for buyers who are looking at a property from afar.