When homeowners are contemplating tearing down an interior wall, it is usually on the quest for an open floor plan. Combining two rooms can make your home feel larger and create a space that is great for entertaining. Currently, most new homes that are built are equipped with an open floor plan for just that reason. Future Vision Remodeling is here to talk about considerations that need to be made before you decide to remove an interior wall.
How to Identify a Load Bearing Wall
When you have a house that is more than one story, knowing the structure is key in removing interior walls. This is why it is important to hire the right professional to help you decipher whether or not you are trying to remove a load bearing wall or not. It puts a certain amount of pressure on the existing walls when you remove interior walls, and it can be difficult to determine load bearing walls at times.
Know What Pipes & Electrical Wires Are Inside the Wall
More hurdles lies within the wall. You can run into all sorts of surprises when you decide to remove an interior wall. You may run into gas lines, plumbing, electrical wiring, and even HVAC surprises. These can be a big undertaking to move and make removing the wall a possibility. They can also be costly. Sometimes there is no way to know what is lying inside a wall. This is especially true when dealing with older homes.
Be Aware of Required Building Permits
Your project may require a permit. Every area is different, so it is important to understand what requirements are in your area. In most cases, if you aren’t dealing with a load bearing wall, you don’t need to worry about a permit. It is always best to play it safe and have all the information before you start the job.
Know How to Make the Room Design & Space Flow
There can be real challenges in removing an interior wall and having the two spaces flow together nicely. You may be dealing with an old home that has molding that doesn’t match from room to room. It can be difficult to find molding that matches vintage molding and you may need to consider a different style. Matching surfaces like flooring can be a challenge as well. If you are getting ready to remove old flooring and install new, that would be an excellent time to remove any interior wall so that you can install the new flooring throughout and create good flow in the space.
Interior Design & More in Tarzana, Calabasas & Greater Los Angeles, California
If you are thinking about removing an interior wall to create an open floor plan in your home, it can be a big undertaking. The remodeling experts at Future Vision Remodeling can help you tackle all the considerations mentioned above to create a beautiful space for you and your loved ones to enjoy. Because you want to be sure your home is structurally sound, it is important to have the right professionals to complete the process for you. Call us today!
