When considering home renovations, especially those involving structural changes, homeowners often wonder about the duration and costs involved. This guide aims to shed light on the typical timeline and expenses associated with beam installation and load-bearing wall removal.
Project Timeline: What to Expect
| Phase | Duration | What is Involved |
| Engineering Design | Typically spans 5-12 business days after initial measurements. | Creation of a detailed plan for beam installation, ensuring structural integrity and alignment with vision. |
| Permit Approval | Officially 10 business days, but can vary between 3 to 8 weeks due to high demand in Ontario. | Ensuring all planned activities comply with local building codes and regulations. |
| Construction | Actual removal and installation takes 4-7 days. Contractor availability can vary, with most being available within a 1-3 week timeframe. | Physical removal of the wall, installation of the beam, and necessary adjustments. |
Photo: A renovation in Hamilton, Ontario prior to the load bearing walls being removed.
Cost Breakdown: Estimating Your Investment
The cost of removing a load bearing wall can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the size and location of the wall, the need for additional structural support, the complexity of re-routing utilities (such as electrical, plumbing, or HVAC), local permit fees, and more.
While we do not handle the physical construction work, we can help you understand the general cost structure. Please note that these are rough estimates, and you should reach out to a licensed contractor for a detailed, project-specific quote.
Structural Wall Removal & Beam Installation: Estimated at $250-350 per linear foot.
New Footing (if required): Starting from $2700.
| Typically included in this pricing: |
|
| Typically not included: |
|
It is very important to clearly understand the quote exclusions from any contractor. Take your time at this stage as you do not want to get into a cost spiral halfway through your renovation.
Cost Implications
Removing a load-bearing wall is more involved than taking down a non-load-bearing wall. The construction costs for removing a load-bearing wall in a single-story home can range from $4,000-$5,500. If the project includes rerouting utilities, costs can rise to $6,000-$10,000. For second-story load-bearing walls, which may require additional structural support or the use of a steel I-beam, costs can range from $8,000-$12,000.
Remember, while this blog provides general information, it's essential to consult with professionals specific to your home and region for precise estimates and advice.
As your engineering partner, Kingswood Engineers Ltd. strives to provide you with as much information as possible to help you plan and budget your project accurately. With our technical expertise and strong connections with reliable contractors, we ensure that your wall removal project is a success, every step of the way.