Expert: Ted Barnhill (Principal, Design45 LLC) - 6/6/2007

Question
Hi.  I have a split-level home, and would like to remove the interior wall between the kitchen and dining room.  This wall sits on an I-beam, and the floor joists run perpendicular to the wall, however the ceiling joists run *parallel* to the wall.  Above the wall is attic space only, and no special arrangement of joists.  So, is this an interior wall? (which will require a header).  The living room, which sits in front of the kitchen/dining room, does NOT have a wall in it, nor does it have a header.

Any help is appreciated.

Answer
From your description, I gather that you are able to go into the attic and see the entire ceiling joist system, and can see no joists, beams, or columns that bear on the wall in question.

If your home is structurally unique, there could be "unseen" loads that could be a problem.  (Perhaps a  cantilevered beam bears along this wall to hold up a porch without posts, etc.)  If, on the other hand, your home is straightforward and you can see/understand how roof, ceiling, and floor loads get to your foundation, then if you don't see anything bearing on the wall, in all likelihood it isn't bearing any vertical loads.  It is still possible that this is a shear wall, built to counter wind or some other lateral loads.  In my experience, this is more likely if your home is newer, larger, more open, or has higher ceilings.

By the way, be sure that you have verified ceiling joists on both sides of the wall, as they aren't necessarily running in the same direction as each other.  

If you have any doubt after reasoning it through on your own, you should consult a structural engineer.  Many experienced builders would be glad to offer their opinion as
well.  Good luck.