DIY Network

Load-bearing Wall How to install a load-bearing wall From "DIY to the Rescue" episode DTTR-602

The DIY to the Rescue crew busy themselves to restore the load-bearing wall. Without the wall, an earthquake could bring down this Los Angeles home.

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Figure A

Materials:

2x4 framing wood
2x2 framing wood

Load-bearing Wall

1. Score the corner with a utility knife (figure A).

2. Try to cut a quarter inch to a 1/2 inch into the drywall for a clean break.

3. Remove all of the drywall debris.

4. Score between the old beam and the ceiling for a clean break.

5. Use a hammer to make a line of holes along the plaster, making it easier to pull off in large pieces.

Figure B

6. Raise the temporary support beam into place and prop it up with 2x4s (figure B).

7. It is now safe to remove the old support beam and replace it with a new one.

8. Snap a chalk line to mark the dimensions of the new beam on the ceiling.

9. Score along the line with a utility knife and hammer away the drywall to create a hole for the new beam. Do this manually to avoid accidentally cutting through any hidden wires or pipes.

Figure C

10. Lift the new beam into the hole and snug it into place with a sledgehammer and put the temporary supports in (figure C).

11. Next, install galvanized steel brackets on the floor where the permanent support posts will go.

12. Use wedge anchors to secure the brackets to the concrete floor.

13. Now, take a dimension from the under side of this beam to the bracket and that's going to determine the height of the post.

14. Nail in the brackets at the posts and the beam creating a secure connection.

15. Once everything is secure, take out the temporary supports and nail in drag strips to reinforce the framing, but make sure to keep it to local code requirements.

RESOURCES :

Paul Davis Restoration
Website: www.pdrestoration.com

HITACHI Power Tools
Website: www.hitachi.com

Porter Cable Power Tools
Website: www.deltaportercable.com

Delta Power Tools
Website: www.deltaportercable.com

Klein Tools
Website: www.kleintools.com

Waterloo Industries
Website: www.waterlooindustries.com

Gladiator Garageworks by Whirlpool
Website: www.gladiatorgw.com

Benjamin Moore Paint
Website: www.benjaminmoore.com