Need to know if a wall is structural, and estimated cost?

13 years ago

Hello -

We are looking at purchasing a house, and were wondering whether or not arches like this are structural. The ceiling is already cathedral in the two rooms, and adjoining kitchen.

Featured Answer

Scott Skinner

13 years ago

Always consult a professional on site. That being said, while they are not load bearing, they appear structural. If the gable wall is not supported perpendicularly outside, the arch may function to prevent lateral movement of the exterior wall. A wall with a gable being open on the inside, and with no structure outside, requires extra vertical braces to stabilize it. If internal bracing is not present, the arch will keep the wall from moving in or out.

If the alcove beside the fireplace extends to the top of the roof on the exterior, it may serve as a vertical movement stabilizer...(sorry, I don't know the architectural term). It's similar to the function of a flying buttress.

Here is how I prevented movement on my cabin wall with no internal or external perpendicular support. (2- 6X6 vertical posts over standard 2x4 wall. the horizontal and angled 6x6's are decorative):

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Comments (11)

PRO
Dytecture
13 years ago
The arches don't seem to be structural, but it's best to consult an engineer first before doing any demolition or alternation.
stdeja71 thanked Dytecture
PRO
Western Design International
13 years ago
It really doesn't look like they are. the column may be but it really looks like this was created with scissor trusses. With that said, you MUST consult a professional who is proficient in structural design and building code. (a quick look in the attic will probably answer the question. Happy house hunting.
stdeja71 thanked Western Design International
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stdeja71
Original Author
13 years ago
Thank you very much for the feedback. From my limited high school drafting, I assumed that they were not. I attached a quick look at the trusses from the inspectors report, but he did not snap the ones that I needed. I did find out that the wall on the for right of the picture, beyond the arches, was a builder add on. The original floor plan is open from end to end. Calling an engineer as soon as we close, thanks again for your input.
PRO
Western Design International
13 years ago
Yes, I always would recommend having a professional look at it, but this picture makes me even more confident you will probably get good news after the inspection. This must not be the trusses at the location in your first picture but it does show that the roof was at least partially framed with trusses.
Let us know how it turns out.
PRO
purehome
13 years ago
From my Interior Design experience, I would say that the center beam is definitely structural. The arches look like add-ins, so they could probably be removed. I would definitely ask the current homeowner for a floor plan; you can see the structural features in the specifications. Hope that helps! Andie@purehome.com
stdeja71 thanked purehome
PRO
purehome
13 years ago
Also- you can request floor plans for homes built after the 1960's from the city; this house looks newer, so I bet the owners have these documents, however. Good luck, and congratulations on future home ownership!
stdeja71 thanked purehome
Nancy Travisinteriors
13 years ago
No the arch is not. I would remove for a opened space. And of course paint. Nice home.
stdeja71 thanked Nancy Travisinteriors
R Robulock
13 years ago
Hi travisinteriors, I hate to do interrupt someone's post. Please forgive me.
When you get a chance, can you take a look at this and give me your thoughts? Thank you.
https://www.houzz.com/discussions/old-brick-home-needs-re-modeling-dsvw-vd~635680
PRO
J Cubed Custom Inc
13 years ago
I would get the engineer but I would say most likely none of it is structural and all decorative. From the picture the roof looks like it has to be trussed and the outside wall was built as a rake wall.
stdeja71 thanked J Cubed Custom Inc
stdeja71
Original Author
13 years ago
Great feedback. I am requesting the plans from the city, since the house was built in 1988. It is part of a development, so I assume that i will just get whatever generic plan the developer submitted. I appreciate all of the input, and will pot some pictures of the space after we move in.