How do I identify a load bearing wall?

The video discusses how to determine if a brick wall is load-bearing before demolition in a 1930s house renovation. It covers methods like checking for joists resting on the wall, examining the floor and ceiling structure, and consulting a structural engineer. Ultimately, the speaker concludes that the wall in question is not load-bearing and can be safely removed.

Checking for Joists

• 00:00:05 The first step is to check if any joists are resting on the wall. The speaker uses a ruler to check the wall's surface and finds no indication of joists directly on it. They also investigate a mystery piece of wood and deem it a filler strip, not a structural element.

Structural Engineer Consultation

• 00:05:14 Before any demolition, the speaker strongly emphasizes the importance of consulting a structural engineer for a second opinion. They stress that, while they have experience, most people should not attempt this without professional guidance. The engineer will check the joist sizes and overall structure for safety.

Examining the Floor and Ceiling

• 00:07:05 The presenter examines the floor and ceiling structure to get a better understanding of the wall's purpose. They check for any obvious signs of load transfer onto the wall, like variations in floorboards, and compare joist sizes in adjacent rooms. The speaker finds that the joists span the full length of the room without relying on the wall.

Joist Span Calculations

• 00:11:14 The presenter uses a joist span calculator to determine the appropriate joist size and span for the current load. The existing joists are slightly beyond the maximum recommended span, but they have been in place for a century without issue, suggesting that the loads are low enough. This further suggests the wall is not load-bearing.

Final Wall Inspection

• 00:12:43 As a final check, the speaker suggests knocking a hole in the ceiling to see if anything is supporting the wall from above. They discover that no significant structural elements are connected to the wall, providing further confirmation that it's not load-bearing. They also check the plasterboard in the adjoining room, providing further support to their conclusion.