Hi everyone,
We’re looking to create an opening in a wall that currently separates our dining room and living room.
We’ve already had a structural engineer assess it and confirm that it’s a load-bearing wall, so we understand that a steel beam (RSJ/lintel) will be required to support the load.
I had a few questions before moving forward:
- Is there a maximum width or height we can open the wall without needing a full beam running wall-to-wall to comply with UK Building Regulations, or does it entirely depend on the structural calculations?
- Do we need final drawings or calculations from the structural engineer for Building Control, even though planning permission isn’t required? (The house is not listed.)
- Would we need concrete padstones or additional foundations poured under the floorboards at either end of the opening to support the load? A builder briefly mentioned this.
- Roughly how much does a job like this tend to cost all in (demolition, steel installation, plastering, labour, skip hire, and installing glass doors)? We’ll get a separate quote for flooring depending on any damage caused during the work.
For context, the master bedroom sits directly above this wall.
I’m also aware that we’ll need Building Control from the council to inspect and sign off the work since it’s a load-bearing wall — I believe the fee is around £377.
I’ve attached photos of the current wall along with some inspiration images.
Thanks in advance for any advice!