Refreshing your home’s design may require some significant changes. Removing a wall should not be off the table if you want to feature something uniquely different. Featuring some exciting interior design plans may be easier if you remove that wall between your kitchen and dining room.

Of course, removing an interior wall is easier said than done. That wall has an important role and removing it without disrupting the rest of your home’s structure excessively will be a difficult task. There is even a chance that taking out that wall will not be an option for you.

Find out what you can and cannot do with your interior walls by continuing with this article.

Important Considerations before You Remove an Interior Wall

Once you get the idea of remodeling your home, it is hard to get away from it. Thoughts of all the designs you could try may be filling you with excitement right now.

While we certainly understand the way you are feeling, we must ask you to slow down a little. After all, we still need to find out if removing that wall between your dining room and the kitchen is even feasible.

Detailed below are the things you must consider before you proceed to remove an interior wall. Check them out so you can determine what your next step should be.

Are You Dealing with a Load-Bearing Wall?

Load-bearing walls are essential to maintaining the structural integrity of your home. Those walls support the floor above them as well as other surrounding structures. Even your roof stays in place thanks to your home’s load-bearing walls.

The load-bearing walls inside your home must also transfer weight to your foundation and other support structures. You need the load-bearing walls to work that way so they can keep your home perfectly balanced.

Does this mean remodeling is no longer an option if the wall you want to remove is load-bearing? Well, not exactly.

Removing load-bearing walls is possible, but you must put supports in first. Build some temporary supports close to the load-bearing wall so they can handle the temporary weight transfer.

You can figure out how to distribute the weight properly to the existing structures before taking the supports down. Reinforcing those existing structures can also be a hassle, but you will get your open floor in exchange for doing so.

Working with a general contractor is crucial if you want to remove a load-bearing wall. They have the experience necessary to take on that kind of project and can help you get the job done faster.

How Can You Tell if a Wall Is Load-Bearing?

Are you unsure if the wall you need to remove is load-bearing? If that is the case, there are things you can look for if you need to make a decision as soon as possible.

According to Home Depot, walls that run perpendicular to joists are often load-bearing walls. They also note that walls thicker than six inches are likely load-bearing and walls that end in columns or supports.

You can also refer to your home’s floor plan if you want to be 100% sure that you are trying to remove a load-bearing wall. Hiring a contractor or a home inspector to examine the wall in question will also eliminate any doubt about what it does.

Do You Have Pipes, Wires, or Vents inside That Wall?

Walls do more than provide structural support. We also need them to house important supply lines. There is a good chance you have pipes, wires, or even vents inside the wall you want to remove.

Their presence in the wall will complicate removal. Before removing the wall, you must first figure out what to do with those supply lines.

Partner with an appropriate specialist so they can give you some direction. Whether it is an electrician, an HVAC specialist, or a plumber, you should seek their advice before doing anything. It would also be best to leave the task of removal up to those professionals so they can preserve as many components as possible.

Removing and re-routing supply lines will make this particular project longer, but there is no way to get around that. The wait will be worth it once you achieve the open floor plan you have been targeting.

Could Removing the Wall Be Dangerous to Your Health?

Next up, you must also consider if removing the wall between your kitchen and dining room could potentially be a health hazard. How could wall removal become a health hazard, you ask? That has to do with the materials used to create and finish that wall.

Let’s start by figuring out what could happen if the wall you removed had lead paint.

Exposure to lead paint can cause you to feel weak. You may also start experiencing headaches not long after that incident. Even your blood pressure could spike following minimal exposure to lead paint.

As scary as lead exposure is for adults, it is even more frightening if you have kids. Children may develop learning disabilities and behavior issues following lead exposure. You cannot afford to be reckless with wall removal if you have kids, so consult with an expert first.

Asbestos is another substance that can cause plenty of trouble if it is released into the air after the destruction of a wall.

Per the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, people exposed to asbestos can develop a condition known as pleural disease. Pleural disease is a troublesome condition that can significantly affect how well someone breathes. In addition to developing pleural disease, individuals exposed to asbestos also have a greater chance of developing lung cancer and mesothelioma.

What Should You Do if the Wall Contains Lead or Asbestos?

You cannot overlook the dangers posed by lead and asbestos. To ensure your safety, you must first confirm if the wall you want to remove contains those toxic substances.

Homeowners can check for lead paint by examining any residue on the wall. If you spot chalky residue, there is a chance it is lead paint. Houses built before 1978 are more likely to feature walls covered by that toxic substance.

Thankfully, the presence of lead paint does not have to derail your remodeling project. You can hire professionals to remove the paint and the wall safely.

Figuring out if you have asbestos in your home will also require some detective work.

Start by checking if the wall is made from a cement sheet because that is often a telltale sign that it contains asbestos. According to Angi, homes with corrugated roofing are also more likely to have some asbestos.

The age of your home can also clue you into the presence of asbestos. If they built your home before the 1980s, you should get it checked for asbestos before doing any remodeling.

You should also hire professionals to remove any wall that contains asbestos. Look for an asbestos abatement company because they have the tools and experience needed for that job.

Will You Need a Permit?

As we have established, wall removal is not something you can do on a whim with all the potential safety concerns involved. However, those safety issues are not the only hurdles you will need to clear before work can begin on your project. Securing a building permit will also be necessary.

The state of New York requires residents to get a permit before getting significant work done. The only projects excluded from permits include installing cabinets, painting, plastering, replacing plumbing fixtures, and resurfacing floors. You can also repair your roof without a permit as long as it is non-structural work.

For everything else, a permit will be required.

Seek help from your contractor so you can get the building permit quickly. In all likelihood, your contractor already has plenty of experience snagging building permits. They can get that done for you in a timely fashion.

The Pros and Cons of Interior Wall Removal

Removing an interior wall can be done. You must be careful with certain hazards, but you can accomplish the project itself.

So, should you go through with it? That is the main question you now have to answer.

To help you out, we have listed some pros and cons of wall removal in the following section. Go through them carefully so you can decide if removing the wall between your kitchen and dining room will be worth it.

The Pros:

• Maximize Your Space – If your growing family needs more space, removing an interior wall could be worth trying. Removing an interior wall could open your first floor and help you free up more living space in the process.
• Design Versatility – An open space is a blank canvas you can alter in different ways to create your desired design. The open space can also be tinkered with consistently so you can keep featuring fresh looks.
• Open Spaces Are Better for Utilizing Natural Resources – Opening up your home also allows it to take advantage of natural light and air. Air and light can flow more freely inside your home without those interior walls getting in the way.
• Open Homes Are Great for Entertaining – Do you like having guests over for parties? You can accommodate them better by removing an existing interior wall.
• Removing an Interior Wall Can Increase Property Value – Turning your home into a greater asset may be possible if you remove an interior wall first. According to Realtor, homes with open floor plans appreciate by up to 7.4% annually. Even if you have no plans to sell your home currently, you should still look to take advantage of that quirk in the real estate market.

The Cons:

• Costly Project – Removing a wall inside your home is going to be expensive and you need to be ready for that. Expect the project to cost over $1,200. If you are tearing down a load-bearing wall, $2,000 may represent the low-end of the project’s overall cost.
• Lack of Privacy – Keeping things private will be more difficult if you decide to remove some of the walls inside your home. Even people on the outside can get a good look at your dining room after you take that interior wall down.
• Away from Home – The workers will need as much space as possible to remove your interior wall. That probably means staying inside your home will not be an option. Living away for a while can be inconvenient, but that is something you will need to do.
• Noise Travels Better – Noises also travel better if no walls get in their way. Spots in your home that used to be noise-free may change significantly following wall removal.

What Other Methods Can You Use to Create Space Inside Your Home?

After considering the pros and cons of interior wall removal, you may have decided that the project is not one you can move forward with. Still, you would like to open up your home a bit. Are there other ways for you to create that space that does not involve tearing down a wall?

The good news is that there are alternatives to wall removal.

For starters, you can rearrange or replace your furniture. Set pieces of furniture against the wall or get a sectional sofa, so you have more room. Mounting your television will also free up more space.

You can also replace some of your fixtures.

French and sliding doors are great for creating that feeling of openness. Larger windows can also create that sense of openness, so look into adding them as well.

Contact us at Long Island Home Advisors if you plan to remodel your home by removing an interior wall. Let us handle that complicated project, and rest assured that we will complete it as soon as possible.

Whether you are renovating your bathroom, adding a second story, or building from scratch, construction projects are complex. It will always involve a considerable amount of time and money when you aspire to enhance your space. Fortunately, you can rely on the expertise of a general contractor to make the whole process more seamless.

Though some firms promise to make things simpler and easier, cutting corners and costs for convenience’s sake can be detrimental in the long run. Doing so can lead to problems like structural issues and make the project last longer. It may also be more expensive because of repairs and back jobs.

Hiring a licensed general contractor is the only way you can successfully complete your construction project while staying on schedule and within budget. They can help you race against your deadline and allocate resources properly since they have the expertise, skills, and state-of-the-art tools. In this article, we outline why a general contractor can be a godsend for you and serve as your best ally.

Defining the Role of a General Contractor

Before we dive deep into the benefits, we want you to be familiar with the role of a general contractor. A general contractor is a prime contractor who is in charge of a construction site, whether it is a new home build, complete attic renovation, roofing restoration, window replacements, or a complete kitchen remodel.

A general contractor is an industry expert who usually owns the firm, manages a team of laborers, and interacts with a big network of construction stakeholders. A general contractor offers an invaluable service by doing the following:

• Hiring and managing subcontractors and people in the team
• Coordinating complex building and renovation processes
• Working closely with the architect
• Purchasing various materials
• Checking materials and workmanship
• Following up deliverables
• Dealing with supplier payments

Since your contractor is in charge of hiring the suppliers, vendors, tradesmen, subcontractors, and other personnel for your project, they serve as the liaison to make sure everyone meets their obligations and corresponding deadlines. A licensed contractor ascertains there is clear communication with proper expectations set, such as the time frame and budget requirements. Most of all, your general contractor serves as your guide, so you do not feel overwhelmed with the complex home building or remodeling process.

The Advantages of Working with a General Contractor

Hiring a general contractor to build or renovate your home is a cost-efficient choice. The primary goal of general contractors is to ascertain that you complete the project using high-quality materials and workmanship while saving as much money as you can. We have compiled a list so you can check out the benefits of hiring a general contractor below:

Have an Ally to Handle Problems Efficiently

Construction projects take time, spanning several months to even years. Sometimes, inclement weather or even something like a global pandemic with lockdowns can bring the project to a halt. But with an experienced general contractor and team, your projects can go on smoothly because they are familiar with the usual problems of their trade.

They possess the expertise to handle any problems with ease and efficiency. Their skills can efficiently manage most setbacks, allowing them to come up with solutions or to pivot alternatives. They could also schedule subcontractors and make sure they deliver prompt and high-quality work.

Save Time With a Well-Organized Schedule

How fast or how slow the work goes depends on your general contractor. The best general contractors will ensure your project progresses without glitches because they have a well-organized schedule. Hence you can rest easy because the construction project gets done within your planned timetable.

And let’s face it; renovations and new builds are a big hassle, taking several months with a contractor and even longer if you try to DIY home improvement projects. But doing it solo will add to your stress, whereas a general contractor bears all the burdens and responsibilities of management. They are professionals who can ascertain that tasks are done quickly without compromising quality.

Enjoy Considerable Cost Savings

Although you will have to pay a small number of fees to a general contractor, this is money well-spent because they provide value with better budget control. When you hire someone who is not certified or attempt to renovate something yourself, you save some money but could pay more in the long run to fix mistakes. General contractors possess experience and expertise, so they get things done right the first time.

More importantly, general contractors have a vast network that allows them to buy materials at a bulk discount, allowing you to save money on certain materials. They know which suppliers carry the best materials, and their connections and negotiating skills allow you to enjoy high-quality materials without breaking the bank.

In addition, these suppliers generally charge more when they work directly with building owners. In contrast, they usually charge general contractors less because they have a long-standing working relationship. Bear in mind that general contractors provide suppliers with a steady stream of work, so they are given discounts.

As a result, you can complete your construction project within budget or even under budget on many occasions. This extra money can be used for more construction upgrades or placed back into your savings account. Working with a licensed general contractor equates to someone working round the clock, assuring you have total control of the project from people to the financial aspects.

Take Advantage of Comprehensive Insurance Coverage

Construction zones are hazardous because there are many sharp objects, from nails to sharp blades. Injuries like falls and other accidents like inhaling toxic chemicals can readily occur because of the risks. But when you hire a general contractor, you get peace of mind because they provide liability insurance.

This means that you would not be responsible for any construction-related accidents or injuries that occur on your premises. You would not pay workman’s compensation or medical bills. Thus, working with a general contractor assures your project goes on smoothly, following all the safety rules implemented by the county.

Take Advantage of Customizable Services

When you collaborate with a general contractor, you have a dedicated team who will morph your visions into a reality. No matter what type of project you decide to build, these professionals can do it for you. After all, apart from the full-time team, they have an extensive network of suppliers and subcontractors who can pull off any job with ease and excellence.

You can share all your ideas, and they will make it happen for you. You have the option to customize whatever detail or improvisation you want to do for your project. Then, your general contractor will provide different options you can choose from.

Tailor fit solutions like these are readily available to you thanks to the assistance of an experienced general contractor. It is truly worthwhile to invest in quality services if it means you can get what you want without any hassles or stress.

Easy Communication and Feedback

If you try to do your construction project on your own, you may get a headache since you need to deal with many vendors and subcontractors. Remember, any form of miscommunication can lead to issues and project delays.

Having a general contractor at your disposal prevents communication gaps because you have a single point person. You have an expert providing project updates, answering questions, and offering suggestions based on what is happening in the market, such as a sudden price increase of certain supplies.

With a licensed contractor, you can have things under control. He will deal with all the subcontractors and make sure they deliver commitments on time. You can sit back and relax, waiting for feedback on the project.

Improve Property Value

Choosing to work with a general contractor for your home remodel or renovation project will increase your property value. You get a higher value when a professional does your home upgrades versus having an amateur or a hobbyist do it.

Workmanship matters a lot when it comes to the longevity of your upgrades. When professionals do it, you can expect them to last longer because they install everything correctly. Since you are paying so much for materials like paint, fixtures, wood, etc., make sure that a licensed professional handle the installation for optimal results.

Get Expert Guidance From Years of Service

When it comes to renovations and new constructions, general contractors are the experts in the field. They have the education, licenses, and credentials to back up their services. Most of all, they have the experience that only comes with years of service.

Usually, the more experience a person has, the more successful the outcomes because they have been sharpened by time and numerous projects. General contractors are organized, so they get market updates. They will clue you in on where you can save or get higher-quality materials.

More importantly, if there are any problems or emergencies, they can readily pivot and respond with ease. A wealth of experience allows them to make projections and make smart choices to keep things under control. For instance, when a certain construction material gets banned, they have alternative solutions to prevent project chaos.

How to Find the Best General Contractor

Though there are many contractors out there, we are not made equal. You want to find an exceptional contractor with a legitimate firm that has proper licenses and accreditation. More importantly, you want an honest person who listens and communicates well.

Having a general contractor who is easy to work with is such a blessing because you have an ally who cares about seeing your plans to completion. Furthermore, you must find a contractor who fits your personality and who has expertise in the project you want to do. If finding the best general contractor feels overwhelming, you can try our tips to get the right candidate for your project:

• Word of Mouth Referrals: When looking for a service provider, going with referrals from family and friends top the list. If the people you trust have high regard for a contractor, that means they have done a great job. Best of all, you could even see the results of the contractor’s work by taking a peek at your relative’s or friend’s property.
• Check the Website: A reputable contractor will have an official website that showcases their services, work gallery, and client testimonials. You can even fill out a contact form to assess how fast they respond to you. For best results, work with a responsive firm that readily answers queries and listens to your ideas.
• Peruse Online Reviews: In this digital age, we can access 3rd-party online review sites. Check out what past clients say about the general contractor. Steer clear of those with a lot of bad reviews. From here, you can create a shortlist of firms.
• Conduct Interviews: Speak with several firms on your list so you can get a feel of how they operate. Ask them about past projects. For example, if you want a contemporary home, working with a firm that has a solid portfolio of modern designs is the most ideal. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and assess how they respond to queries.
• Ask About Credentials: Having a solid portfolio is great, but you still need to check if they have the proper licenses to operate. A legitimate contractor will not hesitate to show you proper government licenses and accreditation because it showcases their credibility.
• Provides Written Estimates: If you are having a hard time looking for a contractor, make it a point to choose one that provides written estimates. It is important not to be kept in the dark for something as expensive as a construction project. More importantly, all hired work will come with accompanying contracts that stipulate materials, labor fees, time frame, and other incidentals.
• Read the Fine Print: Once you have a contract, read, and understand the fine print before signing it to avoid future disappointments. A detailed contract will outline everything, such as partial payment dates, materials used, estimated deadlines, etc. It will also pinpoint what happens should there be any delays, faulty materials, or back jobs.

Hiring a general contractor to work on a house remodel or a new build is a decision you must not take lightly. You want an experienced team who can complete the work swiftly within your budget. If you are looking for one in the Long Island, NY area, give our team a call. Our Long Island Home Advisors Team would love to assist you with your home improvement or new construction project.