so, just bought our first home and would like to open up kitchen by removing half of wall and adding breakfast bar. my question is how do i approach this project? in the pictures i added i show the area i want to remove. the house has vaulted ceilings and in one picture with an arrow showing, is that part some kind of support beam? can i still cut wall if i leave that support? and do i need to add a thicker support? the one there seems kinda thin. any advise would be greatly appreciated, thanks in advance. [ATTACH]18116[/ATTACH][ATTACH]18117[/ATTACH][ATTACH]18118[/ATTACH]

I am installing 2 layers of 5/8 drywall in my basement ceiling for soundproofing. First layer is going in perpendicular to joints becuase it is stronger, less sag(most people recommended). What about second layer? Should it go parallel or perpendicular to the joints? I did some drawing, are these good? I hope these drawing are clear enough. First pic is the room with width/length and first layer of drywall going perpendicular. Second pic is second layer of drywall going parallel. Third pic is second layer of drywall going perpendicular. All using 5/8, 4'x8' drywall. What do you think? thanks for your help. PS: I am also adding green glue between the 2 layers and other soundproof materials else where. [ATTACH]28339[/ATTACH][ATTACH]28340[/ATTACH][ATTACH]28341[/ATTACH]