Removing stair case - DIY Chatroom

yankep · 10-19-2009, 05:58 PM

Wanted to post this on the contractorstalk website but here is just as good I suppose.

I want to remove a stair case in a house and close the hole in between the floors so they both act as a seperate entity.

Anybody know how big of a job this is? and what exactly would be done to close the gap to allow normal use above ensuring its safety in the meantime?
Can any contractors on here advice on what the job entales?

I won't be DIYing this job for obvious reasons, but wanting to understand what the job entales and how it would be achieved..

Thanks

CookeCarpentry · 10-19-2009, 06:14 PM

How are you going to be accessing the 2nd level after the stairs are removed?

It is a fairly straightforward job.

The stairs are cut out and removed. The opening in the floor/ceiling is framed in using dimensional lumber that matches the existing framing. Joist hangers are a must.

Then it is simply installing some drywall, subfloor and finishes.

GBR in WA · 10-20-2009, 01:27 AM

Just be sure to run it by your local Building Department first, to make sure. As you are changing from a single family residence to a two family, there are things you need to address. Zoning, sewer, light and ventilation, headroom, basement egress, bedroom egress, heating and cooling, fire-code drywall on the ceiling below, hallway width, smoke detectors, utility room separation, and fire protection come to mind. Check with them so you don't have to tear it out and rebuild everything later. Notify your Homeowners Insurance Agent of the changes, too.
Be safe, Gary

yankep · 10-20-2009, 03:13 AM

It is in fact being change from one place of residence to two and upstairs will be accessible via externally built stairs accompanied by a new entrace.
The supply of electricity and water however will not be changed at the moment (in terms of supply that is), so I believe I would need a HMO license. Although I am finding out exactly what needs doing for self-contained flats now to take in to consideration.

Thanks for the reply to both of you, was very helpful.

I have considered bedroom egress when looking in to windows and doors ect. (Although expect a thread soon asking for advice on the safest and most effective way on cutting through the wooden frame for widening windoes ).
I have also considered how I will provide their own heating. A new boiler will be installed (which obviously in itself has its own regulations) so supply their hot water and heating, but connected to a single mains for the time being.

I will be needed some new drywall for the ceiling however, I will need to also find some way on controlling to level of noise between floors (I believe some acousic drywall, insulation between the floors may help here, any tips

...)

With regards to headroom however, that shouldn't change should it? :S

GBR in WA · 10-20-2009, 11:55 PM

"With regards to headroom however, that shouldn't change should it? :S" ------ that pertains to habitable space. As a second family will live in the basement, it is up to the local B.D. as to call for basement headroom or standard (upstairs) headroom. They could be different requirements.
A lot of answers can be found on your City's Building Department web site, as most are now posting everything they can to help you understand their requirements without phoning in.

Be safe, Gary