Frequently asked questions

That cannot be promised in advance. A structural engineer assesses the opening and whether columns or additional support must remain.

Changing a load-bearing structure also requires the relevant Dutch technical building permit when only part of the wall is removed. Check location-specific rules as well.

A tapping test is not a reliable approval. Have the wall’s function and any services assessed first.

That depends on the workspace and opening position. Agree in advance which parts must go and which can remain protected.

Only if its supply and installation are specifically listed in the quotation. We coordinate the opening with the party supplying the frame.

It may be possible, but the existing lintel and bearings must be assessed for the larger opening.

The structural calculation determines this. Do not order a section from an online table or the opening width alone.

They can form part of the interior or receive cladding. Dimensions and any required protective finish must suit the design in both cases.

No. The engineer must still assess how the loads transfer to the existing ground and foundations.

Not without assessment. A different position changes the structural design and may require new calculations or details.

Only if the engineer considers it suitable. The larger span and changed bearings need reassessment.

Share the available calculations and drawings. We discuss whether they provide enough detail for supply and installation.

A photograph helps explain the question but is not structural approval. The building must be assessed.

Not automatically. Calculations, drawings, application support and installation are separate items. Record which documents and work are included.

Only when the structural and execution requirements have been met. Materials and connections affect this; there is no universal waiting period.

Ask the municipality or municipal archive for the property’s building file. Include documents from later alterations.

An application is not permission to build. Schedule the start only after the necessary permissions and conditions have been checked.

No. Floor type and structural components may limit the position. Have the chosen location assessed first.

Completely disturbance-free work is not a realistic promise. Measures depend on the material, surroundings and selected method.

Only when agreed. Have supply, installation, balustrades and reinstatement explicitly listed in the quotation.

The need depends on position and construction. Diameter alone does not establish a safe opening; have the location and component assessed.

Sometimes, with an appropriate structural solution and assessment of the flue. This cannot be assumed from the visible chimney breast alone.

That requires assessment of everything remaining above. Those sections must retain adequate, designed support.

Only if the required repairs and substrate preparation are included. Swept clean and ready for installation are different standards.

Not automatically. Agree whether only the above-ground structure or also the floor and foundations will be removed, and specify the final condition.

Debris and loose dirt are removed as agreed. It does not automatically mean the whole home is dust-free or ready for painting.

No. Describe the agreed result precisely, including surface preparation, painting and floor repairs where applicable.

No such assumption is justified. The complete system and its correct application determine the achieved performance.

That follows from the execution plan and temporary structural design. Also agree on protection against rain, draughts and unauthorised access.

This cannot be promised in advance. It depends on segregation, access, services and the safety of the work area and surrounding premises.

No. Material, existing conditions and the effect of the change must be assessed first. Work must follow an appropriate design and clear agreements.

No. Design, material, access and working conditions determine whether on-site welding is suitable.

Share the calculations, final drawings and supplied steel specifications. We discuss whether the components suit the building and what preparation is still needed.

A wall’s role can only be assessed responsibly by looking at the building as a whole. Thickness, a tapping test or a photograph alone is insufficient.

For a project in the Netherlands, IPLO states that removing a load-bearing wall requires a permit for the technical building activity. Check local rules as well.

A structural calculation establishes how the altered structure carries loads. It must match the existing building and the accompanying drawings.

During an opening, the structure changes in stages. Temporary support must account for these intermediate conditions and the strength of the structure below.

A beam transfers loads to suitable supports. A frame combines a beam with columns. The structural situation determines which solution is appropriate.

Compare quotations for the same work and completion level. A lower total may exclude design, permits, waste removal or finishes.

In an apartment, the structure, ownership documents, homeowners’ association agreements and effects on neighbours all matter.

Ask the municipality or municipal archive for the building file. Include later alterations: the oldest drawing may not show today’s building.

The total timeline includes investigation, design, permissions, preparation, construction and finishing. Demolition days are only part of it.

Demolition causes disturbance. Screening, access routes, waste handling and communication can reduce it, but do not make an opening completely dust-free.

Pipes, cables and ducts must be identified before demolition. Isolation and relocation need coordination with appropriate specialists.

Review the completed work, agreed finishes and project records together. Make outstanding items specific and assign responsibility.

Width alone does not set the price. Loads, existing support, material, access and the desired finish determine the complete scope.

Both exposed and concealed steel need a considered finish. Discuss space, appearance and protective requirements before finalising the design.

An opening can transfer loads to new locations or concentrate them. The structure beneath a beam or column therefore belongs in the assessment.

Before demolition, check whether a notification is required and whether asbestos or other suspect materials need investigation. Building permits and demolition notifications are different.

The new structure and altered separating elements must meet the building’s requirements. Discuss protective systems and junctions before finishing.

The visible fireplace structure is only part of the picture. Removal also requires investigation of the flue, connected appliances and remaining structure above.

Coordinate layout, structure, services, flooring and the work sequence. The wall opening then becomes part of one coherent kitchen plan.

Photographs, a plan, your address and a clear description help us discuss your project. We can then identify any missing information.

Start with the application, material, drawings and required connection. Structural welding requires coordinated design, execution and checks.

A welded connection is not always better than a bolted one. The choice follows the structural design and practical fabrication, transport and installation requirements.

Before fabrication, agree on design, dimensions, connections, delivery and finishes. Establish who handles each stage and which documents are final.

Welding costs depend on material, connections, preparation, access and finish. Compare the same scope, including delivery, installation and checks where required.

Loads, support and access differ between buildings. A project quotation specifies the full work instead of relying on width alone.

Only when agreed. Calculations, drawings, application support and municipal fees are separate items.

That depends on the agreed completion standard. Waste removal, cladding, plastering, painting and floor repairs are separate tasks.

Share drawings, photographs and alteration history. Identify fixed sums, provisional items and exclusions, and agree how changes are discussed before execution.

It has a different scope from a structural opening. Actual costs still depend on material, services, access, removal and repairs.

Discuss your preferred period, but make the start dependent on final documents, permissions, delivery and site preparation.