Wall Removal Calculator

Load-bearing walls typically run perpendicular to floor joists and are often located in the centre of the building. Brick walls over 215mm thick are usually load-bearing. Key indicators include: the wall continues through multiple storeys, joists rest on or span towards it, and removing it would leave unsupported spans. A structural engineer should always confirm before removal — never assume a wall is non-load-bearing.

Needles are temporary steel beams (typically 150mm × 150mm timber or steel) inserted through holes cut in the wall above the removal area. Acrow props support each end of the needles, transferring the load above to the floor below while the wall is removed and the permanent RSJ installed. Needles are typically spaced at 1.2-1.5m centres along the opening.

Yes, removing a load-bearing wall is notifiable building work under the Building Regulations 2010 (England & Wales). You need either a Building Notice or Full Plans application to your local Building Control body. A structural engineer's design for the replacement beam is required. Non-load-bearing stud wall removal does not typically need approval but should still be confirmed.

Padstones are concrete or engineering brick bearing pads placed at each end of the RSJ where it sits on the remaining wall. They spread the concentrated beam load over a wider area of masonry to prevent crushing. Typical padstone sizes are 225mm × 225mm × 150mm deep in concrete, or 3 courses of Class A engineering bricks. The size depends on the beam reaction and the strength of the supporting masonry.

A typical internal load-bearing wall removal with RSJ costs £1,200-£2,500 for a standard domestic opening (2-4m span). This includes temporary propping, demolition, RSJ supply and installation, padstones, plastering, and waste disposal. Larger spans, party walls, or structural walls supporting multiple floors will cost significantly more.