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I have two double sliding door closets in my master bedroom that are side by side. Between the two closets is a drywall partition, the same depth as the closets, separating the two.

I'm looking to install/DIY hack an IKEA PAX wardrobe system to improve the organization of the closet and get somewhat of a "built in" look. Is it safe enough to remove the small drywall partition between the two closets? I can't imagine it being structural or have any services running within it. Aside from patching the drywall and flooring after removing the wall, is there anything else I should consider?

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Machavity
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sanwillo
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2 Answers2

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In a residential situation with no floors above this one, you're probably safe. The location of the wall and its short length indicate a simple partition.

Open the drywall on one side and have a look. If you find anything other than common studs and a wall plate, reevaluate the situation.

See also Are there ways to determine if a wall is load bearing?

isherwood
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The questing is what direction are the joists above the wall running? If they are parallel with the wall then it will be safe as it is non-supporting. If the joists are perpendicular then the wall is providing some support. You would need an engineer or experience contractor on-site to evaluate in that instance.

If it is perpendicular then it SHOULD be possible to remove MOST of the wall. But get professional advice. Keep the 2 doors with the stud between them. Put another stud at the back wall (2 if you want to be extra safe but if it is will screwed into the back wall it should be ok) then run a header beam (2 2x4's or 2x6's) across the top between the 2 walls. This will provide the support without the need for the wall.

You may need to reinforce the front stud between the 2 doors. Make absolutely certain that the header is resting on TOP of the supporting studs - toenailing it will not support any weight and it will eventually collapse.

Geoff
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