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

by Julia Brown and Barry Weiss Weiss 03/15/2023

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

Julia Brown and Barry Weiss Weiss

Introducing the partnership of Brown & Weiss. Julia & Barry have a combined 23 years of experience in real estate and over 70 combined years of customer service. They each have lived in the Wilmington area for over 20 years and are very familiar with the local market. Their savvy negotiations and cutting edge marketing join uncompromising integrity as the hallmarks of Julia and Barry’s service. They are well respected in the Wilmington area not only for their professional track record and high ethical standards, but for being hardworking individuals that will do anything in their power to ensure their client’s success. Julia and Barry enjoy working for the number one real estate company in the area- Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage. With the Coldwell Banker brand and their experience behind the sale or purchase or your home, you can’t go wrong. So, put us to work for you today and “Let us light your way home".