Creating an opening/archway

[Putdownthecake]

Hi there,

I am completely clueless at all things diy and so is my partner. We are wanting to create an opening between our living room and dining room so its open plan. So just an big space, no doors fitted in and there would be some of the remaining wall either side so not completely taking it down. Literally just a square opening. We have people coming to quote soon but have no idea what to expect cost wise? Has anyone had this done recently who can advise please? Based in East England

The big cost os if its a supporting wall. Then you will need a steel beam (called an RSJ) to support the floor above. So about £1500-2000. If not then considerably less.
Do not forget the floor - you will need to put something where the wall was. You might get away with a wide threshold if you have a wood floor and the wall isn't too thick.

@Midlifephoenix thank you for your response. I am clueless!!. Turns out it isn't a supporting wall which is good news. One side of room already has laminate and the other side has literally nothing. An old cracked screed?? (Not sure I've got that name right either) I'm hoping once knocked through I can just put down the underlay and laminate on whats there now and a wide threshold

Who decided it wasn’t a load-bearing wall? Are you sure? It is normal for this wall to be load-bearing and then a need for a RSJ to be calculated.

We did it last year. Cost roughly 6 grand (in London) as it was a supporting wall and needed an RSJ. You will also need to hire a structural engineer and submit their calculations to building control as everything will need to be signed off with the right building regs to make sure it's safe.

@PresentingPercy @Ladsladslads thank you both, I'm getting used to using this site. A builder came round to quote, measure up, look at the way the floor runs etc. Its a downstairs brick wall and There's no wall directly above it so he said its a simple job. I'm awaiting the quote and no idea what to expect.

The fact that there is no wall above does not necessarily mean it’s not load bearing. It possibly isn’t but it might support joists. I would prefer the advice of someone qualified to give it.