Are these spindles load bearing?

you would have to look up over the spot where they are in the attic to see if there is a beam or not - more than likely they are just for decoration

https://www.thespruce.com/determining-load-bearing-wall-1822005#:~:text=Generally%2C%20when%20the%20wall%20in,is%20parallel%20to%20the%20joists.

Just looking at it I would say they're not at all loading bearing. I would believe there is definitely a beam there and its supported on either side of the spindles, all covered in sheet rock. But, I would take off some sheet rock from one of the side to be absolutely sure.

Hi,

Without investigating, I would think they are not strong enough to be load bearing' If you can knock the middle one out easily because it is only fixed in between the top and bottom, then it cant be load bearing. If you drill a hole in the bulkhead above the spindles and you can see a Metal RSJ (Ridged Steel Joist) or a Heavy Wooden Beam. Then they are only decoration. Best wishes

Spindles are never used for load bearing. They would never handle the weight.

Hi! No, they are just decorative. As for the wall, I have no idea. Unfortunately, people taking shortcuts have been known to cut into or take out load bearing walls. Stay safe!

Chances are they're not, but I would check to be sure. You've been given some good options for finding out in previous comments.

It is doubtful thin wood spindles could support the wall or ceiling

Likely with investigation they will be found to be decorative and a room divider function.

They really look decorative. The header above them probably has a strong wooden or steel beam inside. I would peek first, but generally spindles like that are decorative.

These spindles could not support the beam above them, whether metal or wooden. You could bring in a contractor and have them check out the structure of the house or you could open up drywall and see what is under there. Even though I suspect they are there for decoration, I would make sure one way or the other before removing them.

They don't seem thick enough to be load bearing.

No, they are most likely decorative. Check to be sure.

Hi Lisa, these are strictly for decor purposes, you can easily remove them, if you do that, you will need to fix of the areas they were attached which can be done easily by doing drywall mud and painting, or putting a decorative molding over the entire area at the top, there are some easy peel and stick ones out there.

https://www.amazon.ca/Ceiling-Flexible-Mouldings-Furniture-Decorative/dp/B078NPRXT1

I think they are for decor only, but would check with a contractor to be sure

they are most likely just decorative

The spindles are probably not load bearing but check the beam in the attic just to make sure. You do not want your ceiling or roof to cave in

I don't think so .. it seams you have header up top in that soffit

I seriously doubt it but you could remove them and add a small bookshelf on each side if they are. You have to examine from above to determine if they are but I’m not 100% sure how so don’t want to steer you wrong.

Your best bet is to contact a structural engineer. They probably aren’t but it’s better to have a pro tell you than your house fall down.

I would say no. Spindles are usually decorative. Load bearing supports would be metal.

I don't believe they are, but you could get a free consult from some builders to find out.

Being in the architecture profession for 30 years, the spindles are not load bearing.

There’s a header above the opening that is carrying the load.

You can’t tear out the side walls of the opening without determining how long the header is and where its posts are.

To simplify 22 guess the answer is NO.

The answer to the question is NO.

No need to check or investigate anything.

The header is carrying the weight.

We had these same spindles on a pony wall. They were not load-bearing but the wall above them was the spindles are just for decoration we took ours out and it made a huge difference.

Hi Lisa, I'm late to answer, but as everyone has said, these are not load bearing. You are given the green light to remove them. Good luck, I think it will look really nice without them there.