Shop Products
Houzz Logo Print
mrplatts

Basement concrete block wall - can it come down?

mrplatts
16 years ago

I realize that to get an "official" answer I should consult some sort of professional. But, I have a wall in my basement which until recently surrounded a very poorly constructed bathroom. Anyway, to make a long story short, the drywall, studs and the shower surround (plywood in parts!) were soaked through and covered in all sorts of funky mold. I hated the batroom anyway, so I tore off the walls and took out the rotten shower surround.

I need to get an idea if this 3.5 inch thick block wall is bearing any load whatsoever in my house. It is a ranch & this is under the upstairs bathroom. I would love to take out this ugly block wall, shift around a bit and make use of the space more wisely. There is a massive steel beam running the length of the house with steel posts supporting it, so I'm pretty sure this is bearing the brunt of the load.

Four joists seem to either rest on or pass right over the wall.

Any opinions?

Don't worry, I'm not planning on tearing the wall down right away, I'm just trying to plan out my new basement.

Photos:

View of wall

View of wall

TOP View of wall

TOP View of wall 2

Comments (5)