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Building Homes or Extensions/Load Bearing Walls

Expert: Dave Johnson - 7/26/2008

Question
I have a 1960's ranch style home with a full basement. I would like to completely redo my basement but I am not sure how I tell which walls are load bearing. Is there a way that I can look at the joists and tell? Thank you for your help.

Answer
Hi Katherine,
If there is a beam running the length of the basement ceiling,
(about in the center) that would be the only load bearing place.
If there is NO beam, which I doubt, there will be joists spliced over any load bearing walls.
Usually the joists will run the short way of the house.
Best of luck, and if you have anything more, please ask...
Dave

Questioner's Rating

Rating(1-10)	Knowledgeability = 10	Clarity of Response = 10	Politeness = 10
Comment	Dear Dave: Thank you so much for your quick reply. Yes, their is a beam running the length of the basement so with your information, I will feel much better about taking out some walls. Have a great day and thanks again. Katherine