Kitchen remodel with a removed load‑bearing wall
Kitchen remodels aren’t just HGTV-like montages (but we have one). They’re planning, permits, engineering, and clean execution. On this project we removed a load‑bearing wall to open the kitchen, installed a new LVL header, and added a structural post on a new basement footing. We’re a woman‑owned and operated contractor; Kim led the structural scope in the field. Here is a photo show getting ready to lift and set the LVL.
First, design and structure. We verified the load path, sized a multi‑ply LVL for span and deflection, and laid out true bearing at both ends. We coordinated the engineer of record, submitted for permit, and scheduled inspections to keep the kitchen remodeling timeline tight. Every fastener schedule, hanger, and post connection was called out so there’s no guesswork once the wall comes out.
Temporary shoring is non‑negotiable. Before touching a stud, we built shoring walls to carry live and dead loads. With the house supported, Kim cut, assembled, and set the LVL to laser. Plumb, level, full bearing. Hardware matched spec, not whatever was on the truck. This is how a kitchen remodel stays safe and passes inspection the first time.
The new post needed real soil under it. A 1960s slab won’t cut it. Tight clearances meant renting a big 16‑inch core drill, cutting a clean round through the concrete, and digging to undisturbed soil. We set rebar, poured a proper footing, and anchored the post base so the kitchen loads transfer where they belong. Loud, messy, and honestly pretty fun for the crew.
One bearing point landed in a CMU exterior wall. Hollow block isn’t a bearing surface by default. We opened the cell, doweled rebar, and poured it solid. Now that cell acts like a reinforced pier, which prevents the LVL from crushing block webs over time. Quiet detail, huge payoff for long‑term performance.
Hidden conditions show up in every kitchen remodel. This wall had electrical runs and a rogue plumbing vent that crossed the span. We mapped services, rerouted cleanly, and kept clearances around the new beam so nothing gets pinched as loads settle. The result is an open‑plan kitchen that feels solid underfoot and stays crack‑free at the ceiling line.
Why this matters for homeowners. Removing a load‑bearing wall is a structural project disguised as finish work. You’re coordinating design, engineering, shoring, beam and post install, utility relocations, inspections, and finish tie‑ins like flooring and paint. The right partner sequences the chaos, keeps dust where it belongs, and delivers a kitchen remodel that looks great and holds up for decades.
Why we show the process. We’re a woman‑owned contractor and proud of the women on our team. Kim led the heavy carpentry here—layout, saw work, beam install, hardware, the lot. Women belong in every part of construction, and our clients benefit from that leadership on site.
If you’re planning a kitchen remodel that involves removing a load‑bearing wall, we’ll design it, engineer it, and build it the right way—safe, clean, and code‑tight. Talk with Prima Construction and get a plan that trades drama for results.
