Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 9/20/2008

Question
I have a modular home from American Homes. I have a 60" wide opening between my living room and dinning room through the center of the house or going thru the marriage wall. I took off the trim and saw that the two walls come together with a small space between the studs and held in place by (4) steel bands. I want to open that opening 2 more inches so I can put in some French doors that require an opening of 62 inches. It looks like the studs are 2 x 6 sitting side ways with plywood attached. Is this a bearing wall? Can I take 2 inces off the stud and put the bands back on like before without hurting the wall if it is a bearing wall?
Thanks for the advice.

Answer
Hi Anthony, I don't see why you can't remove the bands and trim down the studs.  The bands are there to keep the studs from pulling apart and buckling because they are turned sideways.  So as long as you replace them you should be okay. It is also possible to have doors made to fit your existing opening.  You might check with local door companies.  For a few bucks more they can custom build a set of doors to fit the opening and thus eliminate the need for you to be messing around with making the opening bigger.  I hope this information helps feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com