Do I need a structural engineer to knock down a wall?

• <div><p>In many areas, advice from a structural engineer or an architect will be required by your building department before you can remove a wall, but even if it’s not necessary, it’s a good idea. Accidentally removing a load-bearing wall—even if a general contractor advises that it’s safe—can cause major structural damage, putting you and your family at risk and potentially costing thousands or tens of thousands of dollars in property damage.</p></div>

Get matched with top structural engineers in Rockvale, CO

Q: Are all exterior walls load-bearing?

• <div><p>It's safe to assume that all exterior walls are load-bearing, or at least have load-bearing characteristics. Some older homes feature porches or bump-outs that don't rest on the home's foundation. However, they still must carry the weight of the roof section they support. Walls containing floor-to-ceiling glass or other non-structural elements must use post and beam configurations to meet load-bearing criteria. </p></div>

Q: Are dormers load-bearing?

• <div><p>Dormers must be able to bear the load of their own construction and the added window. The style of the dormer, however, will determine where the weight loads onto your home's structure. A gable dormer bears the weight on the side walls whereas a shed dormer bears it on the front walls.</p></div>

Q: What are the disadvantages of a cathedral ceiling?

• <div><p>Cathedral ceilings make a statement in your home, but at the cost of your attic space. Normal attics are wide open, which allows warm air to move around and exit your home. Because of this, cathedral ceilings make your home less energy efficient and put your ceiling at risk of venting issues if you&rsquo;re not careful. They also reduce your attic storage space, potentially cause an echo, and even make it harder to change a light bulb. </p></div>

Q: Do I need a structural engineer or an architect?

• <div><p>Whether you&rsquo;re building a new home or building an extension on your existing property, you will likely need both a structural engineer and an architect. A structural engineer will determine what loads your foundation and framing can safely handle, and an architect will draw plans according to those structural calculations to simplify the building process. You can start by contacting a structural engineer near you, as many work alongside architects and can get all of the prep work done at once.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Rockvale, CO

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Rockvale, CO 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 Rockvale, CO 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, 2026

Reviewed in April 2026
Great experience contracting with R.D. Construction LLC for a replacement roof with 60 mil TPO Reinforced Membrane hot air welded together on a large mobile home and a new sidewalk. Skilled diligent workers, fast, coordinated and impressive attention to detail. Good cleanup. The owner, Ramon,...
RD Construction LLC
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Reviewed in January 2026
Concrete replacement and releveling of my stairs was completed. The work was completed in a timely manner and cleanup was well done. Very pleased with the job that was completed.
Friend Concrete & Landscaping LLC
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Reviewed in March 2023
Sure Foundations Home Inspectiond was reasonably priced, courteous service & very thourogh inspections. The results we recieved covered every aspect of the home. Documents had specific details with photos. We would highly recommend Sure Foundations.
Sure Foundation Home Inspections LLC
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Reviewed in December 2022
Such a professional company and prompt with communication. Alan was very knowledgeable and helped me make decisions through the install process. My flooring looks great and I would recommend this company.
On Top Flooring, LLC
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Reviewed in March 2022
Gave them about $27000 to start the job and they never performed as required by our written contract. Had our money for seven months and did nothing during that time. I demanded a refund and got it rather quickly. Just gave them a no interest loan for seven months. They talk a good line but...
Patio Enclosures - Colorado Springs
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Reviewed in July 2021
I hired this company and Justin Garcia was my engineer. He was very professional and did a fantastic job. Everything was completed a head of schedule. I would highly recommend this company and especially Justin. I was extremely satisfied and will hire this company again in the future if needed!
AE Leuken, LLC
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Reviewed in January 2019
The crew that did my repairs, Gabriel, Javier, and Anthony, were patient with me asking numerous questions and poking my nose over their shoulder as they did the work. They were very knowledgeable about the whole process. It stinks that my house broke in half, but I am confident with the repairs...
Tar Heel Basement Systems
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Reviewed in December 2017
I was really happy with them. The engineered drawing we had was incorrect and they had to redo it and the work was beautiful.
C & S Construction, LLC
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Reviewed in October 2014
The workers are only about half way through with erecting a pole barn type workshop/ extra garage structure with concrete floor of 1580 sq ft and am happy with the cost and workmanship so far. I am sure the end product will be fine.
Proven Excellence, Inc
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Find Structural engineers in Rockvale

J2.26 Engineering, LLC

3.5(

)

Serving Rockvale, CO and surrounding areas

Credit card accepted

"Excellent. Dan saved us money on the overall cost of the project as well as providing a more resilient structure for us. He worked hard to get the drawings done in a timely fashion. Also, he is very personable and upbeat."

Recommended by71%of homeowners

Serving Rockvale, CO and surrounding areas

In business since 1991

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

With 15 years of experience serving Colorado, Kidd Engineering is your solution for all your architectural needs. We take great pride in our extreme professionalism, timeliness and superior customer service on every job. Check out our reviews from satisfied clients. Give us a call today so we can answer all of your questions. Your satisfaction is guaranteed!

Response time2 days

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Criterium - McCafferty Engineers

4.0(

)

Serving Rockvale, CO and surrounding areas

In business since 1992

Credit card accepted

Offers commercial services

"My contact with Criterium- McCafferty Engineers was a delightful experience. Melissa the associate was very professional and prompt in getting the information I needed and was able to get our clients inspection done very quickly. Thank you Criterium-McCafferty Engineers you are our go to engineering company!!"

Response time1 day

Recommended by28%of homeowners

Serving Rockvale, CO 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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TBRME Cleanest Contracting LLC

New to Angi

Serving Rockvale, CO and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Warranties offered

Hi, I’m Brooke Hackford a proud business owner, wife, and mom of three amazing kids. I grew up in Utah, and family has always been at the heart of who I am. My husband and I have been together for 9 years (married for 4), and building a strong, happy life together has been one of my greatest accomplishments.\n\nAs a business owner, I value hard work, honesty, and connection. I love creating lasting relationships with my customers and making sure they feel supported every step of the way. Thank you for stopping by I’m excited to share what I do and help however I can!

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Prestige Property Care LLC

New to Angi

Serving Rockvale, CO and surrounding areas

Prestige Property Care LLC is Pueblo's go-to exterior property service company, dedicated to elevating the allure, safety, and value of residential and commercial properties. With a focus on power washing, landscaping, and contracting, we offer a complete suite of professional solutions to keep properties impeccably maintained all year round. Our team focuses on delivering superior craftsmanship, meticulous attention to detail, reliable scheduling, and a customer-centric approach. From revitalizing curb appeal with expert power washing to crafting breathtaking outdoor spaces through landscaping, we tailor our services to meet each client's specific needs. Committed to excellence and lasting outcomes, we set the benchmark in exterior property care, helping homeowners and businesses uphold spaces they can truly be proud of.

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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

It's safe to assume that all exterior walls are load-bearing, or at least have load-bearing characteristics. Some older homes feature porches or bump-outs that don't rest on the home's foundation. However, they still must carry the weight of the roof section they support. Walls containing floor-to-ceiling glass or other non-structural elements must use post and beam configurations to meet load-bearing criteria.

In many areas, advice from a structural engineer or an architect will be required by your building department before you can remove a wall, but even if it’s not necessary, it’s a good idea. Accidentally removing a load-bearing wall—even if a general contractor advises that it’s safe—can cause major structural damage, putting you and your family at risk and potentially costing thousands or tens of thousands of dollars in property damage.

Dormers must be able to bear the load of their own construction and the added window. The style of the dormer, however, will determine where the weight loads onto your home's structure. A gable dormer bears the weight on the side walls whereas a shed dormer bears it on the front walls.

Cathedral ceilings make a statement in your home, but at the cost of your attic space. Normal attics are wide open, which allows warm air to move around and exit your home. Because of this, cathedral ceilings make your home less energy efficient and put your ceiling at risk of venting issues if you’re not careful. They also reduce your attic storage space, potentially cause an echo, and even make it harder to change a light bulb.

Whether you’re building a new home or building an extension on your existing property, you will likely need both a structural engineer and an architect. A structural engineer will determine what loads your foundation and framing can safely handle, and an architect will draw plans according to those structural calculations to simplify the building process. You can start by contacting a structural engineer near you, as many work alongside architects and can get all of the prep work done at once.

The Rockvale, CO homeowners’ guide to structural engineering services

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

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How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Main House Support Beam? [2026 Data]
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May 5, 2026May 5, 2026
How Much Does Beam Installation Cost [2026 Data]
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Why You May Need to Hire a Structural Engineer for a Home Inspection
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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.