Creating an opening in a load-bearing wall has become commonplace today. Even so, this demanding job requires a technical study beforehand. That is why a structural engineering office is essential to confirm that such work is feasible before the site even starts. As the only body qualified to analyse a building's structure, the engineering office can recommend the technical solutions that apply to this kind of work.
Creating an opening in a load-bearing wall : the different stages of the job
The backbone of a building, the load-bearing wall ensures the strength of the construction. The framework of the foundation is weakened as soon as you consider modifying a load-bearing wall. That is why, before starting the job, precautions must be taken to keep it stable.
Asked to create an opening in a reinforced concrete load-bearing wall, the OMPT team travelled to Cannes to carry out the work. Because the opening in the RC wall weakens the structure, it had to be reinforced with a steel strengthening system. Indeed, we carry out every operation by strictly following the recommendations of a specialist structural engineer.
Before starting the work, we protect the surfaces from debris. A self-adhesive sheet covered the furniture and windows, while the floor and surrounding areas were covered with plastic sheeting. During the concrete wall demolition, falling rubble can indeed damage these surfaces.
Once the opening was made, we carried out the steel strengthening of the concrete wall. To do this, we placed a double H2B300 beam on either side of the H2A200 columns, then welded everything firmly together. Below the columns, RC footings ensure better load distribution between the H2A200 columns. To guarantee optimal strength, we reinforced the structure with support made up of a
steel splice plate and stiffeners.
Once this was done, we apply anti-rust paint to all the metal surfaces to prevent the steel from oxidising. Finally, before leaving the site, the OMPT team cleans up.
