Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 11/7/2009

Question
Bruce,
I have a split entry built in '77.  I want to open a span on the main load bearing wall running down the center.  The upstairs directly above is a open kitchen dining area.  The roof is all trusses so there is nothing load bearing upstairs other than the outer walls of course.  The floor joists are 2 x 10 and the width of the house is 26'.  The load bearing wall is 2x4 and runs the middle of the house. I am hoping to create a 9.5' opening.  My thought are a triple 2 x 10 or a double 10" microlam.  I would appreciate any thoughts or concerns.  Let me know if you need more info.
Thanks
Jeff

Answer
Hi jeff, for a span of less than ten feet, either of your ideas will work. Just be sure to support the floor system while removing the wall.  A little trick if the joists and the wall studs are exposed, cut all the nail attachments with a sawzall so that the wall section can be moved in one piece.  Then, if your joists have enough lap on the wall?  take a sledge hammer and move the wall far enough to install the beam while maintaining floor support with the old wall.  I hope this information helps, please feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com