In general, walls that run perpendicular to the floor and ceiling joists, walls located beneath a ridge beam or bearing point, and walls that align with the foundation below are likely load-bearing. However, accurately determining whether a wall is load-bearing requires analysis of the framing and load path — not a visual guess. A Professional Engineer can confirm the wall's structural role and design the appropriate replacement system if removal is planned.

Yes, in most jurisdictions. Removing a load-bearing wall is a structural modification that requires a building permit. The building department will require PE-stamped structural calculations and construction drawings that demonstrate the replacement beam and supporting elements are adequate. Platform Engineering produces the complete permit package your building department requires.

The beam material depends on the span, load, and installation constraints. Common options include steel W-shapes or channels, laminated veneer lumber (LVL), and glued laminated timber (glulam). Steel is typically used for longer spans or heavier loads. LVL and glulam are common for moderate spans and are often preferred when the beam will be concealed within the ceiling or floor framing. Our PE selects the optimal material for each project.

Temporary shoring consists of posts and beams installed to support the loads carried by the existing wall while it is being removed and the replacement beam is installed. Without temporary shoring, the structure above the wall will deflect or collapse during the removal process. Our PE designs a temporary shoring plan that is included in every wall removal package and is required by most building departments as part of the permit submission.

Most load-bearing wall removal packages are completed within five to seven business days from receipt of complete project information — including floor plans, photos, and project dimensions. More complex projects involving multiple wall removals or structural modifications to upper floors may require additional time. We provide a specific timeline in every proposal.

Yes, but each wall removal must be individually analyzed as part of a comprehensive structural assessment. Removing multiple load-bearing walls compounds the redistribution of loads and may require larger beams, additional columns, or upgraded foundation elements. Our PE evaluates the cumulative effect of all proposed modifications and designs a coordinated structural solution.