Quote Originally Posted by Altec Best View Post
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.