Hey guys new to the site here hoping to get some info on my current project. I am in the process of removing a load bearing wall between my kitchen and living room to open the space up. I have contacted two lumber yards and two contractors and have been given four different answers as to what size beam i need to get this job done, my house is a cape cod style two story. The wall is right on the center line with the ridge vent of the roof and is perpendicular to the floor joists. I know it is carrying the 2nd floor load for sure. I have rafters in the attic not trusses, therefore i am assuming the roof load is transferred to the outside walls? There are no beams in the attic or 2nd floor carrying weight only 2×4 walls on the 2nd floor. So far here are the specs and beam sizes ive been told to use:
20ft 4 in span.
Measuring the floor joists that meet on the current wall one side is 12ft and the other 18ft
Ive been told i need a 24” 4 ply beam which is way too tall for headroom even if i put it up in the ceiling.
Was also told to use an i-beam
One lumber yard said it will work to use 11 7/8” 5 ply.
9”x 7” bearing on both of ends
Ive tried to keep this as least confusing as possible. Appreciate any help
Jim.