What is the cost to remove a load bearing wall?

Removing a load bearing wall typically costs $1,500–$10,000+ including temporary supports, beam (LVL or steel), engineering, and finish. 12 ft span often $4,000–$8,000.

Do I need an engineer to remove a load bearing wall?

Yes. A structural engineer specifies beam size and supports. Permit usually requires engineer stamp. Cost $500–$2,000 for residential.

LVL vs steel beam cost?

LVL (engineered wood) typically $200–$400 per linear foot installed. Steel I-beam $300–$500+ per linear foot. Steel is stronger for long spans.

How long does load bearing wall removal take?

Typically 3–7 days: engineer, permit, temporary supports, beam install, removal, and finish. Delays can extend timeline.

What is included in load bearing wall removal?

Typically: engineering, permit, temporary supports, beam, installation, wall removal, and patch/finish. Electrical or HVAC relocation may be extra.

How do I get the best load bearing wall removal quote?

Get 2–3 quotes. Provide span and ceiling height. Ask if engineering and permit are included. Compare total and scope.

Can I remove a load bearing wall myself?

No. Temporary supports and beam installation require a licensed contractor. Incorrect work can cause structural failure.

Does load bearing wall removal require a permit?

Yes in almost all areas. Structural work requires permit and often engineer approval. Contractor usually pulls permit.

What is a temporary support wall?

Temporary walls (or jack posts) support the load while the beam is installed. Removed after beam is in place. Part of contractor scope.

How much does a 12 ft span beam cost?

12 ft span with LVL beam typically $4,000–$7,000 installed including supports and finish. Steel may be $5,000–$9,000.

What is the cost per linear foot for load bearing wall removal?

Cost per linear foot typically $200–$500+ including beam, labor, and finish. Engineering and permit are fixed costs.

Can you remove part of a load bearing wall?

Yes with a header (beam) over the opening. Cost depends on span. Same engineering and permit requirements.

How much does engineering cost for wall removal?

Structural engineering for residential wall removal typically $500–$2,000. Includes site visit, calcs, and stamped drawing.

Does removing a load bearing wall add value?

Opening floor plan can improve flow and appeal. May add value if done correctly with permits. Poor work can hurt value.

Load Bearing Wall Removal Cost Calculator

Use this free load bearing wall removal cost calculator to estimate cost by span length and beam type (LVL, steel, double 2x). Most projects run $1,500–$10,000+. Engineering and permit are required. Get a low, average, and high estimate below.

How much does load bearing wall removal cost?

Load bearing wall removal in the U.S. typically costs $1,500–$10,000+ including beam, engineering, and finish. A 12 ft span often runs $4,000–$8,000. Get 2–3 local quotes and structural engineering.

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How to read this estimate

These figures are based on national average material and labor costs adjusted for the options you selected. Actual pricing varies with your local market, site conditions, material availability and contractor workload. Always get two or three written quotes before committing to a project.

Average Load Bearing Wall Removal Cost

National averages run $1,500–$10,000+. Engineering and permit required.

Cost by beam type (per linear ft)

Typical ranges

Beam type	Estimated cost/ft
LVL / engineered	$250–$450
Steel I-beam	$300–$500+
Double 2x (short)	$150–$280

Cost components

What drives the total

Item	Typical range
Engineering	$500–$2,000
Beam + install	$1,500–$6,000+

What Affects Load Bearing Wall Removal Cost?

Span — Longer spans need larger beams and cost more.
Beam type — Steel costs more than LVL for long spans.
Engineering & permit — Required; add $500–$2,000+.

Data from contractor quotes

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And structural engineering

Load Bearing Wall Removal Cost FAQs

Common questions about load bearing wall removal cost.

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Disclaimer: Load bearing wall removal requires structural engineering and permits. Never remove without professional approval. Get 2–3 written quotes.