Is it worth getting a structural engineer?

• <div><p>If you’re building new construction or adding onto your existing home, hiring a structural engineer is not only worth it but it’s probably required by your local building department. Structural engineers will ensure you aren’t making your home unsafe in the building process, which is crucial from a safety perspective but also a legal one. It’s also worth hiring a structural engineer if you’re making changes to structural components, like removing a load-bearing wall.</p></div>

Get matched with top structural engineers in Porterville, CA

Q: What simultaneous construction tasks are recommended alongside this project?

• <div><p>While concrete walls do not need to &quot;breathe&quot; in the traditional sense of the word, they do require waterproofing and dehumidifying methods, particularly in basements below the water table. Concrete both contains moisture from its initial installation and can absorb water when exposed. Ensuring proper basement ventilation , installing a vapor barrier, and controlling water exposure are all important tasks.</p></div>

Q: Is it okay to drill into a load-bearing beam?

• <div><p>You should avoid drilling or cutting into load-bearing beams because removing material will weaken it and increase the risk of structural damage or even collapse. If you do need to drill into a load-bearing beam, speak with a structural engineer first to discuss where it&rsquo;s safest to drill and the width and depth of the bit that&rsquo;s safe to use.</p></div>

Q: Why do retaining walls lean?

• <div><p>Failure to compact the soil during construction is the most common cause of leaning retaining walls. In addition, poor drainage can lead to excessive water pressure behind a retaining wall, pushing against it until it begins to move forward away from the soil it is holding back.</p></div>

Q: Is it worth getting a structural engineer?

• <div><p>If you&rsquo;re building new construction or adding onto your existing home, hiring a structural engineer is not only worth it but it&rsquo;s probably required by your local building department. Structural engineers will ensure you aren&rsquo;t making your home unsafe in the building process, which is crucial from a safety perspective but also a legal one. It&rsquo;s also worth hiring a structural engineer if you&rsquo;re making changes to structural components, like removing a load-bearing wall.</p></div>

Q: What are the typical warning signs of a structural issue in my home?

• <div><p>Indications include cracks in walls, uneven floors, and sticking doors or windows that suggest foundation movements.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Porterville, CA

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Porterville, CA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Structural Engineering needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Structural Engineering companies in Porterville, CA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Structural Engineering needs.

Last update on April 24, 2025

Reviewed in April 2025
We were incredibly impressed with the professionalism and expertise of the entire team. From the initial consultation to the final walkthrough, the process was seamless and stress-free.They kept us informed every step of the way ensuring we felt comfortable throughout the building process. The...
EMA Construction, Inc.
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Reviewed in October 2024
Alcantar Construction is fantastic! They are honest, reliable, timely, and their workmanship is excellent. We will call them first any time we need help with a project. Thank you!
Alcantar Construction
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Reviewed in March 2024
Working with Elon and the Top Pro Home Builders team was fantastic. They quickly provided a detailed quote and brought our vision to life for our guest and master bath remodels. The construction process was smooth, with organized communication through Google sheets and WhatsApp. They ensured...
Top-Pro Home Builders
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Reviewed in January 2024
I'm grateful for the remarkable transformation of my previously awkward 2 bed/1 bath into a fully functional 2 bed/2 bath plus office. After interviewing several companies, I chose HIC Construction because Idan was open-minded, thoughtful, and had good ideas for my first renovation project....
HIC Builders, Inc.
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Reviewed in August 2022
Me and my wife are very happy from the overall work that Jacob and his team did at our house recently. The work was a complex one because it required the removal of some supporting beams in order to give a new open look for the first floor. Jacob was able to generate a stunning design and he...
4 Seasons Remodeling & Design Inc.
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Reviewed in March 2022
Removing debris from a 2 Story home with tiled roof was efficiently performed. Very helpful in cleaning up. Friendly with excellent work ethics. Would hire this company in a heartbeat. Thank you for the referral.
Giannini Clean N Green
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Reviewed in February 2020
Most trees were trimmed well, however one tree was transformed from a tree into a structure resembling a tall mushroom, which I?ll probably have to replace at considerable cost. The yard was left with considerable amount of small debris.
Tree Professionals
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Reviewed in December 2017
Marc and Melissa called me after hours to discuss my Structural Engineering questions. Marc was very informative and professional. Marc shared a number of ideas that have helped to shape the project. I would highly recommend Pasquini Engineering.
Pasquini Engineering, Inc.
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Reviewed in March 2016
We had Petkus Brother install our outside patio cover when we bought our new home. We were very happy with their work, so when we decided to enlarge our living room out to the patio area. We called Petkus Brother, after talking to Kevin Petkus he came up with a designed for new patio/living...
Petkus Brothers
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Reviewed in February 2015
<p>The process to obtain new windows began by calling the Porterville Home Depot who in turn notified their Windows Installation representative who is out of Reedly. I received a call from the representative within an hour and was able to make an appointment.</p> <p>I met with the...
HOME DEPOT INC
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Find Structural engineers in Porterville

J Hanna Engineering, Inc.

5.0(

)

Serving Porterville, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2016

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"John was able to advise us on the best course of action in a tricky situation. He got back to me very quickly and was thorough on his advice. We will continue to utilize his services for this and future projects."

Response time2 days

7 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by83%of homeowners

Serving Porterville, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 2019

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

Ortiz Custom Concepts Eng. is a small father and son construction company formed from a long history of work experience in the Kern County area. Our dedicated team of professionals have over 20 years experience working on both small and large scale construction, repair, and alteration projects. Our company values honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business to provide innovative ideas and suggestions tailored to your projects. Our services are customized to your individual needs, paying close attention to the details of each project that we are involved in. With the business boom that is occurring in our local area and the desire to offer additional contracting services to the community, we are pleased to work with our future customers and live up to our slogan , “ Designing Your Dreams, With US!" Please feel free to contact us today!

+10

Response time2 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Pasquini Engineering, Inc.

2.7(

)

Serving Porterville, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 1990

Credit card accepted

Offers commercial services

"I would have liked talking with the draftsmen on the phone. It would have saved both of us time clarifying details instead of back and forth via email"

Response time1 day

Response rate94%

Recommended by80%of homeowners

Serving Porterville, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 1995

EEI has been in business for 6 years. With offices in Reno NV, Carlsbad CA, and Camarillo CA EEI provides Environmental, Engineering and Architectural services. If you need Engineering or Architectural services please send an e-mail to [email protected]. A complete company profile can be seen at www.eeitiger.com, or call us in Reno at (775) 746-1980 to discuss how we can assist you.

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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

While concrete walls do not need to "breathe" in the traditional sense of the word, they do require waterproofing and dehumidifying methods, particularly in basements below the water table. Concrete both contains moisture from its initial installation and can absorb water when exposed. Ensuring proper basement ventilation , installing a vapor barrier, and controlling water exposure are all important tasks.

You should avoid drilling or cutting into load-bearing beams because removing material will weaken it and increase the risk of structural damage or even collapse. If you do need to drill into a load-bearing beam, speak with a structural engineer first to discuss where it’s safest to drill and the width and depth of the bit that’s safe to use.

Failure to compact the soil during construction is the most common cause of leaning retaining walls. In addition, poor drainage can lead to excessive water pressure behind a retaining wall, pushing against it until it begins to move forward away from the soil it is holding back.

If you’re building new construction or adding onto your existing home, hiring a structural engineer is not only worth it but it’s probably required by your local building department. Structural engineers will ensure you aren’t making your home unsafe in the building process, which is crucial from a safety perspective but also a legal one. It’s also worth hiring a structural engineer if you’re making changes to structural components, like removing a load-bearing wall.

Indications include cracks in walls, uneven floors, and sticking doors or windows that suggest foundation movements.

The Porterville, CA homeowners’ guide to structural engineering services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Dan Simms
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May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does a Structural Engineer Cost to Hire? [2026 Data]
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•
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A damaged main support beam can cause serious structural damage to your house. Learn how much it costs to replace a main house support beam.
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Identify potentially serious problems with your foundation with an inspection from a structural engineer.
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Why You May Need to Hire a Structural Engineer for a Home Inspection
Learn why it might be a good idea to hire a structural engineer for a home inspection in addition to a general home inspector when you’re purchasing a home.
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May 2, 2026May 2, 2026
Structural Steel Beam vs. Wood Beam: Which Is Right for You?
Structural steel and wood beams ensure your house is structurally sound. Learn the difference between steel and wood beams and how to choose the right one.