At Ocean One we can create a larger, more open living space by carefully removing the wall between two rooms and installing structural steel support if necessary. By using a properly sized steel beam, the load previously carried by the wall is safely transferred, allowing the two areas to be combined into one spacious room. This method is commonly used to transform separate rooms into open-plan kitchens, dining areas, or living spaces, improving natural light, flow, and the overall feel of the home while maintaining full structural integrity.
By removing the wall between two rooms and adding steel support (if necessary), you can create one large open space. Here's the basic idea:
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Check if the wall is load-bearing
- If it supports the structure above, you can't just remove it.
- A structural engineer will usually calculate the size of the steel beam needed.
- If found to be not load bearing, you will not require any supporting beams and the wall can still be removed safely.
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Install a steel beam
- Typically a Rolled Steel Joist (RSJ) or another steel I beam is installed where the wall was.
- The beam carries the load that the wall used to support.
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Temporary support
- Builders put in temporary supports (acrow props) before removing the wall.
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Knock through and finish
- Once the beam is installed and secured, the wall can be removed.
- The beam is then usually boxed in with plasterboard so it blends into the ceiling.
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Building regulations (UK)
- Work like this normally requires approval under UK Building Regulations and inspection by your local council.
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Result: Two smaller rooms become one large open-plan area (often used for kitchen-dining-living spaces).