In a recently gutted home in Orem, Utah, the homeowner plans to remove a bookcase-style wall that separates the kitchen from the living room. While the wall may appear decorative, our professional assessment revealed that certain attic truss elements are bearing on it—an unintended load path that developed over time as framing settled and construction methods evolved.
The wall can be modified, but not entirely removed. The vertical framing within the bookcase wall may be taken out, yet the double top plate must remain to preserve structural continuity. The load from the attic will instead be transferred through the two top plates onto a newly installed double 2×8 beam, secured with Simpson brackets and structural screws.
This beam will bear on paired 2×4 posts at each end, extending down through the foundation to the footing so that the load reaches solid ground. All connections will use Simpson A35 framing angles fastened with SD screws, installed per manufacturer specifications to maintain proper alignment and bearing. Once complete, the modification will allow for an open living area while ensuring that the home’s framing remains properly supported from roof to footing.
