Knocking down an arch which may be a supporting wall.

[morbidstorm]

Hi all,

We are thinking about fitting a new kitchen, for which we would be buying a kitchen from B&Q or such and fitting it ourselves. However, we would like to knock down an archway which dives the tiny kitchen and the dining room, but we don't know how to go about finding out if it is a supporting wall.

I know I need a builder to advise me, but what sort of builder, and how much would it cost for his advice?

[YvonneM]

I think you will have to look above the celing to see if the joists are at right angles to the wall or if they are parallel If they run parallel then it is not supporting

[buildersmate]

A good answer. But still yank in a couple of builders. You want what is called a General Builder, one who does small complete projects / extensions. Such a builder will be very familiar with what to do. You shouln't expect to pay for his advice - its called 'getting work'. You should expect him to provide you for a quotation outlining what he would do for how much money.

[morbidstorm]

Thank you both - very helpful advice.

Yvonne - you say I have to look above the ceiling to see if the joists are at right angles - what are joists? Ha ha ha!!! No really, I am a professional working Mum of two, but when it comes to things such as this, I'm worse than clueless - I'm dangerous!!

I will indeed be getting a builder on board! Yell.com here I come!!

[YvonneM]

Joists are the very thick wooden beams that support the upper floor or if in a bugalow will be found in the roof space. Being a working woman is no excuse for not knowing these things Can you change a plug? :) lol

[morbidstorm]

I CAN change a plug, and a lightbulb I'm pleased to report, but I'm afraid that is where my DIY prowess ends!!!