Get matched with top structural engineers in Lincoln, DE

Q: Are ceiling joists load-bearing?

• <div><p>Yes, ceiling joists are typically load-bearing. However, their primary function is to support the weight of the ceiling and loads applied to it, like lighting fixtures and ceiling fans. They can also help support the roof, especially if they&rsquo;re part of truss systems. Remember, the load-bearing capacity of ceiling joists depends on the material, size, and space between them. </p></div>

Q: How much weight does a 4-inch concrete slab support?

• <div><p>A 4-inch-thick concrete slab can support around 4,000 pounds per square foot if a contractor reinforces the slab with rebar, while that same slab without reinforcements will support closer to 1,000 pounds. For the purposes of a patio, 4 inches in thickness without reinforcement should suffice unless you&rsquo;re installing heavy kitchen equipment or a hot tub on it. In those cases, reinforcing your slab and sticking with 4 inches of thickness should provide plenty of strength.</p></div>

Q: What building materials are used in Neoclassical architecture?

• <div><p>Stone, marble, and brick are common building materials of Neoclassical architecture, though you will also find wood flooring and a range of natural stone tiles. Since several home styles fall under Neoclassical architects' umbrella, a range of building materials&mdash;including traditional wood framing&mdash;will make an appearance.</p></div>

Q: Can a one-story house have a load-bearing wall?

• <div><p>Yes, a one-story house can have a load-bearing wall. The load-bearing walls in a single-story home are usually the exterior walls. If the house has a basement with exposed walls, the arrangement of the beams can help indicate what walls are load-bearing.</p></div>

Q: How do I know if I need a structural engineer?

• <div><p>You need to <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-hire-a-structural-engineer.htm">hire a structural engineer</a> when building or modifying any component with a structural load in your home. Common situations where you would need a structural engineer include home inspections when buying or selling a home, investigating possible issues with your foundation, beams, load-bearing walls, or chimneys, breaking ground on a new home or structure on your property, and renovating an old part of your home that could threaten any structural integrity. Home additions and bump-outs also require an engineer. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Lincoln, DE

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Lincoln, DE 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 Lincoln, DE 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 February 16, 2025

Reviewed in February 2025
This company is not professional. They lack every skill of doing business. First, they had no leadership on the job. Second, the ones on the job pretended not to speak English - no answers to many questions. Third, they lack the standard of care for doing the job creating multiple problems from...
Avamer Roofing
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Reviewed in August 2024
We were very happy with Something Constructive. They were on time, very efficient and the foreman and crew worked seamlessly together. They got the structure up quickly. The neighbors were amazed! The General Contractor kept the project going smoothly and was attentive to what we wanted. ...
Something Constructive
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Reviewed in November 2023
Bryon was super helpful in giving me different stair layouts that might better fit our deck. My existing stair set was a poorly built by a different contractor who slapped it together and became a hazard with flimsy boards and weak structure. It’s refreshing to see a pair of brothers dedicated...
On The Level LLC
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Reviewed in April 2023
Buyer Beware, RUN don’t walk!! There are plenty of ethical, quality builders to choose from. Don’t put down any deposits unless you know 100% you will build with capstone or they WILL keep the money because quote from salesperson: "We need to penalize our customers or they will walk all over us"...
Capstone Homes
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Reviewed in November 2021
Great ! He showed up on time every day and completed the job within the time I was told. The structure looks great and I would highly recommend this company again to anyone who needs a fence put up.
Nex Gen Home Improvement
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Reviewed in June 2021
I requested an estimate to demolish and remove my existing residential shed and owner Ron quickly responded to discuss my needs and provided me with a reasonable estimate the same day. Demolition team arrived on time and made quick work of dismantling and removing the structure while...
Bellco Demolition LLC
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Reviewed in November 2020
We were very impressed by Bobby and his quick response time, friendly and professional communication and attention to making sure the job was done well. We will definitely call again for other jobs and have already recommended BW Engineering to others!
BW Engineering
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Reviewed in January 2017
Multiple Projects: Bathrooms, Detached Garage, and Portico Bathrooms: We recently bought a house built in 1956 which still had two bathrooms mostly in its original condition barring toilets and sinks. Although in great shape for its age, it was time for a remodel. After much research, I...
All Renovations, Inc.
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Reviewed in October 2016
<p>He removed all the railings, decking and the access ramp to the deck and is great at noticing all the details. We did not need to replace the joists and supports, but they were covered with mold/mildew. Terry suggested the existing structure be power washed prior to rebuilding the deck. He...
Diamond State Contractors
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Reviewed in July 2011
Not knowing any contractors in the area, we used the newspaper, the Telephone Book, and other advertisements, also went to building supply places and educated myself on the cost of the materials that I wanted used. We obtained bids and interviewed 6 contractors and chose C & C Windows &...
C & C Siding and Window Inc
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Find Structural engineers in Lincoln

William Siegel

5.0(

)

Serving Lincoln, DE and surrounding areas

Approved

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

Offers commercial services

I am a licensed Professional Engineer providing structural engineering services for residential and small commercial projects. I work with homeowners, contractors, and design professionals to help move projects through the permit process by providing structural calculations, drawings, evaluations, and engineering letters as needed.\n\nIn-person structural inspections are available in Maryland, DC, and Northern Virginia. Remote structural consulting is available in Delaware and North Carolina.\n\nTypical projects include load-bearing wall removal, beam and header sizing, additions, decks, foundation concerns, and framing evaluations. My goal is to provide practical, code-compliant structural solutions that are clear, efficient, and tailored to the project.

24 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Arius Builders and Engineers LLC

5.0(

)

Serving Lincoln, DE and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Saed and his team helped me with two different projects in my home, one was to remove our load bearing kitchen wall and the other was to create a vaulted ceiling in the living room by removing the ceiling joists. They handled both the permitting documentation and the construction work. They completed the work quickly and did everything they said they would. Saed and his brother are very easy-going guys, and I would highly recommend them."

Prepped the kitchen for sanding and hardwood restoration

+25

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Stephen R. Lehr Engineering

3.5(

)

Serving Lincoln, DE and surrounding areas

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Did a great job. Very nice."

Response time1 day

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

Yes, ceiling joists are typically load-bearing. However, their primary function is to support the weight of the ceiling and loads applied to it, like lighting fixtures and ceiling fans. They can also help support the roof, especially if they’re part of truss systems. Remember, the load-bearing capacity of ceiling joists depends on the material, size, and space between them.

A 4-inch-thick concrete slab can support around 4,000 pounds per square foot if a contractor reinforces the slab with rebar, while that same slab without reinforcements will support closer to 1,000 pounds. For the purposes of a patio, 4 inches in thickness without reinforcement should suffice unless you’re installing heavy kitchen equipment or a hot tub on it. In those cases, reinforcing your slab and sticking with 4 inches of thickness should provide plenty of strength.

Stone, marble, and brick are common building materials of Neoclassical architecture, though you will also find wood flooring and a range of natural stone tiles. Since several home styles fall under Neoclassical architects' umbrella, a range of building materials—including traditional wood framing—will make an appearance.

Yes, a one-story house can have a load-bearing wall. The load-bearing walls in a single-story home are usually the exterior walls. If the house has a basement with exposed walls, the arrangement of the beams can help indicate what walls are load-bearing.

You need to hire a structural engineer when building or modifying any component with a structural load in your home. Common situations where you would need a structural engineer include home inspections when buying or selling a home, investigating possible issues with your foundation, beams, load-bearing walls, or chimneys, breaking ground on a new home or structure on your property, and renovating an old part of your home that could threaten any structural integrity. Home additions and bump-outs also require an engineer.

The Lincoln, DE 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

Timothy Moore
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Install an LVL Beam? [2026 Data]
Looking to remove load-bearing walls and vertical supports to open up your living space? Learn about what affects the cost to install an LVL beam.
Lyle Hendriks
•
May 5, 2026May 5, 2026
How Much Does Beam Installation Cost [2026 Data]
Beam installation costs are an important consideration if you’re building a home or doing renovations. Learn about average costs and factors in this guide.
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•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does Steel I-Beam Installation Cost? [2026 Data]
A new steel I-beam is more durable than a wooden one. Learn what factors can affect steel I-beam installation costs and how to budget for this project.
Rachel Hoffman
•
Mar 6, 2026Mar 6, 2026
Structural Inspection vs. Home Inspection: Which Is Right for You?
Knowing the difference between structural inspections vs. home inspections is easy with this convenient guide. Learn when you might get each one done.
Kate Fann
•
Mar 19, 2026Mar 19, 2026
Who Do You Hire to Knock Down a Wall?
Looking to open up your living space and need to remove a wall? Learn who to hire to knock down a wall, whether it's load-bearing or non-load-bearing.
Rachel Hoffman
•
Apr 5, 2026Apr 5, 2026
Structural Engineer vs. Architect: Their Differences and Why You Need Both
Do you have an upcoming construction project and aren’t sure whether hiring a structural engineer vs an architect is better? Find out here.