It seems like flow is the new ‘it’ factor in interior design. Long gone are the days of formal dining in stuffy, closed-off rooms. Now, homeowners are increasingly (re)designing their spaces to allow for a more open and interactive floor plan, where families can interact across boundary-less spaces.
The best and most obvious way to achieve this open concept ideal is by removing a wall that obstructs your view into neighbouring rooms. It’s also a cost-effective way to bring in more light and add space without having to change the existing floor plan. Removing the main floor wall can be a painless endeavour or a structural nightmare. At Bond Contracting and Construction Inc., we take great pride in helping Calgary homeowners realize their home improvement goals. Many handy folks might think taking down a wall is a straightforward DIY project, but more often than not, it involves unforeseen challenges. Consider these guidelines before rolling up your sleeves and taking the sledgehammer to the wall: Structural Integrity If you don’t wish to see your house in shambles, the first thing you need to figure out is whether or not you’re dealing with a load-bearing wall. While a non-loadbearing wall is basically a frame of drywall erected to divide the space, a load-bearing wall holds up the floor or roof above it, and cannot be removed without an alternative support system. It’s recommended to seek the help of a structural engineer, who can assess your house’s framework and suggest an ideal course of action. If you can’t take out the entire wall, we suggest creating an interior window as an alternative. This will still let in more light and allow for better air circulation, while also doubling as a breakfast bar, bookcase or storage unit. It’s a win-win all around! Building Permits Cutting corners will only cost you in the long run. It’s important to consult Calgary’s regulations on home renovations and obtain a building permit for any intended structural changes. Failure to get a building permit can result in costly delays, legal action or removal of work already completed. Additional Changes Removing the wall is but a fraction of the work. Changes might also need to be made to your plumbing, electrical or HVAC systems. Even non-load-bearing walls can hide unexpected plumbing lines, air ducts or electrical wires. You can trust that Bond Construction’s team of skilled professionals will detect and reroute these internal structures to ensure your home continues to run flawlessly. Removing an entire wall can completely change the character of a space and increase your home’s appeal. If you’re searching for a contractor in Calgary to demolish your drywall, look no further than Bond Contracting and Construction Inc. As specialists in custom renovation and home improvement solutions, we’ll also take care of the patchwork to ensure your floors and ceiling look seamless between newly opened spaces. Contact us today for your Calgary home renovations!