At ABP, we love helping our clients with valuable information about their homes. One common question is, "How do I know if a wall is load-bearing?". Here are some general guidelines that may help you identify if a wall may or may not be load-bearing:

Floor Joist Orientation: Load-bearing walls typically run perpendicular to floor joists. Check the joist direction in basements, crawl spaces, or attics. Walls running parallel to joists are less likely to be load-bearing but may still require further inspection.
Wall Location:
- Exterior Walls: These usually support the roof and upper floors, making them load-bearing.
- Central Walls: In multi-story homes, walls down the center often align with others on different floors and are likely load-bearing.
- Walls Near Beams/Columns: If a wall is above/below or ends at a beam or column, it is likely load-bearing.
Structural Elements:
- Beam and Pillar Connections: Walls connected to beams or pillars are usually load-bearing.
- Foundation Connections: Walls that connect directly to the foundation, especially in basements, are typically load-bearing.
Construction Type:
- Older Homes: Walls stacked from floor to floor are often load-bearing.
- Truss Roofs: Homes with truss roofs may have non-load-bearing interior walls.

These tips are general; always consult a professional to ensure safety!

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Disclaimer: ALWAYS CONSULT A STRUCTURAL ENGINEER BEFORE REMOVING ANY WALL

What walls are load-bearing?