Solid matrix in partition wall

Finglas Incubus

I want to remove a partition wall between my kitchen and dining room (2 storey semi d built c.2001 by Kingscroft (Abbey Homes), c.2001) with open plan in mind. As far as I can see, the wall is not load bearing - I've taken measurements and mapped out the wall relative to the upstairs floorplan.

Heres the strange part - the wall is solid in places which has thrown me off. There is a matrix of solid sections throughout the wall, the solid sections are about 7" x 5" and are surrounded by plasterboard. Each solid section is about 12" from the next, both above and to the side. If I tap the sections with a hammer, it certainly feels and sounds like block.

Does this form of construction sound familiar to anyone? What are the chances that the construction is load bearing given the make up of wall? Any pointers appreciated.

archtech

Finglas Incubus wrote: »

I want to remove a partition wall between my kitchen and dining room (2 storey semi d built c.2001 by Kingscroft (Abbey Homes), c.2001) with open plan in mind. As far as I can see, the wall is not load bearing - I've taken measurements and mapped out the wall relative to the upstairs floorplan.

Heres the strange part - the wall is solid in places which has thrown me off. There is a matrix of solid sections throughout the wall, the solid sections are about 7" x 5" and are surrounded by plasterboard. Each solid section is about 12" from the next, both above and to the side. If I tap the sections with a hammer, it certainly feels and sounds like block.

Does this form of construction sound familiar to anyone? What are the chances that the construction is load bearing given the make up of wall? Any pointers appreciated.

its best engage the services of a structural engineer.

Finglas Incubus

archtech wrote: »

its best engage the services of a structural engineer.

I agree and intend getting professional advice prior to commissioning any work. In the mean time, I'm curious to know if this form of stud wall construction sounds familiar to anyone.

archtech

to be frank it appears to me that your are finishing for structural advise which is prohibited under the forum charter.

BTW you can not determine if a wall is load bearing or not, just because there is or is not another wall lining up overhead it.

Finglas Incubus

archtech wrote: »

to be frank it appears to me that your are finishing for structural advise...

You're mistaken but thanks for your insight nonetheless.

A fella called fish

It's possible that the "7x5" solid pieces, as you describe, are designed to act as columns within the thickness of the wall, which would not be uncommon for certain applications.

Don't skimp on Professional fees and engage a Chartered Structural Engineer before you utter the famous last words "but I was sure that wall was non-load bearing love..."

muffler

You wont find the answer to your query here so you will have to dig deep and get a professional on site to have a look.

As the topic is in breach of the forum charter Im locking this.