Model 19 Foams

[westend9]

I would never, ever, remove any part of a bearing wall without supporting it in someway first! It is called "BEARING" for a reason, as it is holding up everything above it ! Got to be careful about some of those Folks at Home Depot,Lowes,Menards,etc.... Every time I go there I can't even get decent directions to the rest room,etc,and they work there ! I've come to the realization about them places "You Are On Your Own" !!!

You just "NEVER" remove bearing walls without supporting them before removing any part of one ! I'm sure many a people been buried doing that in the past.

I've been in the construction business, off and on, for my whole life (Dad used to let me hold the floor joist ends on the foundation before I could walk) and you can't believe some of the things I've seen. Left to their own devices, some homeowners know just enough to make a disaster.
The big-box stores in this area are attracting better help as the construction industry collapse continues. I run into Master Electricians, Journeyman Plumbers, and other skilled tradesman working the floor in these stores. Of course, it's hit-and-miss if you're going to run into one of these folk and, if they're skilled, they won't be giving out advice or plans on load-bearing structure without seeing the project.
If the recent heatwave continues along in my area, I just might pack up the truck and head for Georgia to give GM a hand. At least the ride down would be cool with the truck AC going.

[Altec Best]

The big-box stores in this area are attracting better help as the construction industry collapse continues. I run into Master Electricians, Journeyman Plumbers, and other skilled tradesman working the floor in these stores. Of course, it's hit-and-miss

In my area, most of the construction guys I know (Friends) are working and very busy.Most of the people in my area working at the Box stores are young, just out of high school for the most part, not all of course.Depends on what department you are in too etc...

I only go there anymore for convenience of the most generic of products.But for quality products I use Heath lumber a 100 year old + Lumber Yard that has the quality lumber I'm looking for.And as an added bonus they are right across the street from Graingers.

This is where I bought my Baltic Birch for my project ( Heath).I asked for it at the Home Depot, even at the Pro desk.The guy working the counter that day didn't know what it was or how to order any of it.Home Depot offers cheaper prices though but there stuff is mostly junk.You have to go through a whole pile of 2x4's to get a couple straight ones.

I'm not a big fan of Home Depot. Personally I think Lowes is the better of the 2,never been to a Menard's.

[cradeldorf]

Menards is where they sell the stuff that wouldn't sell at the other 2 stores. : (