When making a large opening in a wall to maintain structural integrity, what shape should be cut?

When making a large opening in a wall to maintain structural integrity, cutting a rectangular shape is the most effective choice. This is because rectangular openings can distribute stress evenly across the opening, allowing for better load-bearing capabilities compared to other shapes. The straight edges and corners of a rectangle can help to stabilize the surrounding wall structure, as the load is transferred in a more uniform manner.

Additionally, when considering the practical aspects of cutting and reinforcing a wall, rectangular openings typically allow for easier installation of headers and supports, which are crucial in maintaining the wall's overall strength after the cut is made. This enables firefighters to create passage ways while minimizing the risk of compromising the structure's integrity.

While square and triangular shapes could serve specific needs, they do not provide the same versatility in load distribution, and circular openings tend to create concentrated stresses that can lead to structural failure. Therefore, the rectangle is the optimal choice for maintaining structural integrity when making large openings.