I own a two story Cape Code Cape, and would like to open up one side of the stairway. The stairway is located just off center of the house. The wall that I would like to open up runs perpendicular to the floor joist and roof.
My question at the bottom of the stairs would I need to add in a beam to the ceiling?
Thanks
D-
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I've considered the same thing but it scares me a little. I checked to ensure that it isn't a load bearing wall, which it isn't but my house is a little over 150 years old and I'm afraid that it may have settled onto the wall. I just worry that after all of that time, removing 1 wall supporting 1 joist may end up sagging the entire 2nd floor. I have drawn up 2 sets of plans, 1 with a floor to ceiling post and 1 where I have to frame out the 2nd floor joists to beef up the support. 2 years later and I still don't know which to do, if either. The only thing I could recommend is talk to an engineer or an architect. Good luck.
