Break to rebuild: Everything you need to know about breaking a wall in your home with retaining walls

Changing the structure of a home or office often involves breaking down an existing wall. Whether it is creating a more open space, expanding a room, or adapting the structure to new needs, breaking down a wall is a significant step that requires careful planning, understanding of the type of wall, and professional execution. In this article, we at Avni Akhazoot will explain the process, important considerations, and safety requirements for breaking down a wall in your home.

It's important to know before you start breaking:

Breaking a wall is not a simple operation and can be dangerous if not done properly. Before you begin, there are a few essential things you should consider:

Wall type: The first and most important thing is to identify the type of wall you intend to break. There are two main types:
- Drywall (partition wall): A relatively light wall that does not carry a structural load. Breaking it is easier but still requires caution due to possible infrastructure within it (electrical wires, pipes).
- Block/concrete wall (load-bearing wall): This wall forms part of the building's supporting structure. Breaking a load-bearing wall without approval and engineering planning can be extremely dangerous and jeopardize the stability of the entire structure!
Infrastructure in the wall: Before breaking, make sure that there are no electrical, water, gas or communication infrastructures inside the wall. Damaging these infrastructures may cause significant damage and a safety hazard. It is recommended that you seek the help of a professional (electrician, plumber) to locate and disconnect the infrastructure if necessary.
Certifications: In most cases, breaking a wall, especially if it is an exterior wall or a load-bearing wall, requires obtaining permits from the local authority (municipality/council). Starting work without permits can lead to fines and stop work orders.
Engineering design: If it is a load-bearing wall, a structural engineer must be consulted. The engineer will examine the structure, determine how the wall can be safely broken, and may require the installation of new openings with supporting beams.
Safety: Breaking a wall creates a lot of dust, noise, and construction debris. Appropriate safety measures should be taken, such as goggles, a dust mask, gloves, and appropriate clothing. Children and animals should be kept away from the work area.

Steps for breaking drywall (as a rule, but safety guidelines must be followed):

Preparing the area: Remove furniture from the work area and cover the floor and nearby walls to protect them from dust and dirt.
Infrastructure location: Use a wall detector to make sure there are no electrical or plumbing infrastructures inside the wall.
Marking the break line: Mark on the wall the exact line where you want to break.
Creating initial openings: Using a drywall knife or a small hammer and chisel, create holes or notches along the break line.
Breaking the cast: You can use a larger hammer or crowbar to break the drywall between the openings you created. Work carefully so as not to damage the substrate behind the drywall.
Removing the metal profiles (if present): After removing the plaster, you may come across metal profiles supporting the wall. Use tin snips or a metal cutting tool to remove them.
Cleaning the area: After breaking, remove all debris and clean the area thoroughly.

Breaking a block/concrete wall (must be performed by a certified contractor):

Breaking a block or concrete wall is a more complex process that requires professional tools and engineering knowledge. Typically, the process will include:

Obtaining permits and engineering planning.
Disconnection of infrastructure by professionals.
Use of heavy tools: Like a jackhammer (congo), concrete cutting machine or hydraulic tools.
Temporary structural support (if necessary): To prevent collapse during breaking.
Professional waste removal.

Avnei Ahikot – your professional partner for changing the structure of your home:

At Avni Holdings, we understand your desire to create the perfect living or working space. Breaking a wall is often an integral part of this process. We provide professional and safe demolition services, while adhering to all required permits and regulations. Our team of experts will accompany you from the planning stage to execution, while fully considering your needs and safety.

Interested in breaking down a wall in your home in Tel Aviv and the surrounding area safely and professionally?

Contact the Avne Holdings team today! We will be happy to provide you with initial advice, examine your project, and provide an affordable quote.

Building Blocks – Building your dreams, step by step.