Expert: Dan Griffin - 4/13/2010

Question
Hello Sir,
We are remodeling the kitchen and want to extend it to incorporate the existing covered patio. That presumes taking down the outside wall (non load bearing) and enclosing the patio with 3 walls. The roof's weight is supported by the 2 pillars on the patio, not by the kitchen wall. My concern is the patio's structure and if that will support the addition of new walls, windows, kitchen cabinets, fridge, etc. that will be positioned in that area. The patio structure (cement) seems to be at least 8 inches deep (the patio was built at the same time with the house), but is lower than the existing kitchen floor and slightly slopping and we'll need to raise it to the same level: is about 1" lower in the side closer to the house and about 4" lower on the other side. Don't know if it has a footer or any type of frame. Additional info: we live in a warm climate zone.
Thank you for your time.

Answer
Dana,  this idea is probably NOT going to work out.  You don't tell whether you are located where a building permit will be required, but code compliant work is still the MINIMUM proper way to  build.

Please check your statement about your  outside wall that is not load bearing, kitchens usually aren't on the gable ends.  Any permanent interior space must have a foundation aroung the perimeter that extends below frost line.  Your patio had no such requirement and I doubt that it complies.  The step down and sloped floor can both be deatlt with, though removing the patio may be the most logical approach.  YOur HVAC system probably cannot handle the additional cubic footage.