Open Up Your Living Space
Wall Removal Services
Transform your home with Cornerstone Construction’s professional wall removal services. Whether you’re aiming for a modern open-concept layout, more natural light, or improved flow between rooms, we’re here to make it happen. Our team specializes in safe and efficient wall removal, handling every detail to deliver a seamless and stress-free experience.
Why Consider Wall Removal?
Removing a wall can dramatically improve the look, feel, and functionality of your home.
Here’s what it can do:
Create Open-Concept Spaces: Enjoy a modern layout that makes your home feel larger and more connected.
Increase Natural Light: Open spaces allow more light to flow throughout your home, creating a bright and welcoming environment.
Boost Property Value: A contemporary design is highly appealing to buyers and can increase the resale value of your property.
Improve Functionality: Adapt your space to fit your lifestyle with a layout that works for entertaining, family time, or quiet retreats.
Our Wall Removal Process
We’ve perfected our process to ensure every project is safe, efficient, and meets your expectations.
Step 1:
Initial Consultation
We start with a one-on-one consultation to understand your vision, inspect the area, and determine the best approach for wall removal. During this stage, we’ll identify whether the wall is load-bearing or non-load-bearing and discuss potential design ideas.
Step 2:
Structural Assessment and Drawings
For load-bearing walls, we conduct a thorough structural assessment to ensure the stability and safety of your home. Our team works with engineers to create detailed structural drawings that outline the necessary reinforcements, such as beams or columns. These drawings are essential for:
Obtaining permits.
Guiding the construction process.
Ensuring compliance with local building codes.
With Cornerstone Construction, you don’t have to worry about technicalities—we handle it all.
Step 3:
Permits and Planning
We manage the entire permitting process for you, ensuring everything is in line with local regulations. Once permits are approved, we create a detailed plan that outlines timelines, materials, and costs, so you know exactly what to expect.
Step 4:
Preparation and Safety Measures
We take every precaution to protect your home and minimize disruption during the project. Our preparation includes:
- Installing dust barriers to contain debris.
- Setting up temporary supports for load-bearing walls.
- Disconnecting and capping electrical, plumbing, or HVAC systems running through the wall.
Step 5:
Wall Removal
Our skilled team carefully removes the wall using specialized tools and techniques to ensure precision and safety. For load-bearing walls, we proceed with the installation of either a flush beam or a drop beam, depending on the project’s structural requirements and aesthetic goals.
Step 6:
Finishing Touches
After the wall is removed and the beam is installed, we handle all finishing work, including:
- Repairing and blending floors, ceilings, and adjacent walls.
- Installing trim or moldings that match your home’s existing style.
- Painting and final cleanup, leaving your space ready to enjoy.
Beam Installation Types
Flush Beam Installation
A flush beam is installed within the ceiling cavity, creating a seamless, level ceiling surface without visible obstructions.
Process for Flush Beam Installation:
1 Structural drawings guide the placement of the beam within the ceiling joists.
2 Temporary supports are set up on either side of the wall.
3 The ceiling joists are cut and attached to the flush beam using joist hangers.
4 The beam is secured into place, ensuring proper load distribution.
5 The ceiling is refinished to create a smooth, continuous appearance.
This option is ideal for homeowners seeking a clean, modern look, as it eliminates visual separation between spaces.
Drop Beam Installation
A drop beam is installed below the ceiling, leaving it visible as a structural element. While functional, drop beams can also be incorporated into the design for an industrial or rustic aesthetic, or seamlessly integrated into the room’s look.
Process for Drop Beam Installation:
1 Temporary supports are installed to hold the structure in place during wall removal.
2 The beam is placed beneath the ceiling joists and bolted securely to carry the load.
3 The exposed beam is finished to match your home’s decor. Options include:
- Drywall Cladding: For a clean and seamless look that blends with the ceiling.
- Paint or Stain: Highlight the beam as a design feature, perfect for rustic or industrial styles.
- Decorative Cladding: Cover the beam with wood or other materials for a custom aesthetic.
This option is often faster and more cost-effective, with fewer modifications to the existing structure, while still allowing flexibility in its final appearance.
Wall Removal Services: Costs in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA)
Wall removal and beam installation projects involve multiple steps and services, each contributing to the total cost. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
Base Costs for Beam Installation
Flush Beam Installation:
$6,000 - $10,000
Flush beam installation is more complex as it requires modifications to the ceiling joists, potentially higher labor costs, and structural engineering involvement.
Drop Beam Installation:
$1,200 - $4,200
A simpler process compared to flush beams, drop beams are installed beneath the ceiling joists and require less structural modification.
Additional Costs:
Wall Removal:
$1,000 - $5,000
Costs vary depending on the wall size, materials, and whether it’s load-bearing or non-load-bearing.
Rerouting Utilities (Electrical, Plumbing, HVAC):
$1,500 - $3,000+
If the wall contains utilities, these systems will need to be relocated by licensed professionals.
Permits:
$300 - $1,500 Permitting fees vary by municipality but are required for most wall removal projects.
Structural Engineer Inspections and Drawings:
$500 - $2,500
Engineering assessments and drawings are essential for ensuring the project's safety and for obtaining permits.
Crane Rentals (for Larger Beams):
$500 - $2,000
In cases where large steel beams need to be hoisted into place, crane rentals may be required.
Finishing Work (Flooring, Drywall, Painting):
$2,000 - $5,000+
After the beam is installed, repairs to the ceiling, walls, and flooring, as well as painting and trim work, will ensure the space looks complete.
Estimated Total Costs in the GTA
For a comprehensive project that includes wall removal, beam installation, and finishing work:
Flush Beam Projects: $12,000 - $20,000+
Drop Beam Projects: $7,000 - $15,000+
These ranges depend on the project’s complexity, the size and type of the beam, and the additional services required.
Factors That Affect Cost
Wall Type: Non-load-bearing walls are less expensive to remove compared to load-bearing walls.
Beam Material: Steel beams are typically more expensive than wood or engineered beams.
Project Size: Larger walls or complex layouts increase labor and material costs.
Existing
Utilities: Walls containing plumbing, electrical, or HVAC systems require rerouting, adding to the overall cost.
Accessibility: Limited access to the work area may increase labor time or require specialized equipment like cranes.
Let’s Open Up Your Home Today
Wall removal is an investment that can significantly enhance your home’s value, functionality, and aesthetic appeal.
Contact Cornerstone Construction today for a consultation and a detailed quote tailored to your project needs. We’ll guide you through every step, ensuring the process is smooth, safe, and transparent.