Who to call about removing a possible wall

[Alex Nelson]

Hi Guys,

I just purchased my first investment property, a duplex, that i plan to house hack. It was built in the early 80's and the kitchen is it's own small room with a doorway between it and the living/dining room. I'd like to remove this doorway and the small amount of wall around it to open the kitchen up to the rest of the house.

I know that it is a bad idea to remove a wall without consulting an expert, but I'm not exactly sure who I need to talk to about this. I've looked in the attic and it looks like there may be a support coming down from the roof to this part of the wall. (well a large amount of wall, but only a small part of that is the area i wish to remove). Would i call an engineer for this? Or is there someone else that i should talk to? 

Also is it possible to remove one support and make like a triangle to either side to replace it? From what i can see, it looks like there is only one support going down to this section of wall and replacing it with a triangle shaped support seems like an easy fix. But i don't know what I'm talking about so I'm coming to you lovely people for help! Any advice would be much appreciated!

-Alex

[Jason Coyle]

There are 2 types of load bearing beams that can be done to open walls, exposed beam that hangs off the ceiling, or recessed in the attic for a smooth ceiling. A short span like in your pics would be simple and inexpensive. However, I have a couple questions.

If I understand you correctly, you're wanting to expose the side of those cabinets in the left side of the photo?

If that is the case there are a few things to consider.

It's very likely the side of the cabinets aren't finished. Also from the pics, I would say they are builder grade cabs? Meaning, made from particle board or MDF? If so, they likely are wrapped in a veneer or possibly would have a printed paper veneer? This would be problematic to match for both upper and lower cabs.

Secondly, your counters will be too short. Do you plan to replace them? Is so, problem solved on that. As far as cabinet finish, you could always do a lay over plywood on the side to cover the particle board and paint it? Not what I would usually do, but it could be nice enough where it would work. Would need a little corner mold on the front corner as well.

I sent you a message so feel free to give me a call. Might be easier than posting back and forth. 

@Alex Nelson