Why should I pick steel for my new support beam?

• <div><p>You should pick steel for your new support beam for a few reasons. While steel is more expensive than other materials, such as laminated veneer lumber or glulam, it offers the following benefits:</p><ul><li><p>Fire-resistant</p></li><li><p>Unaffected by pests</p></li><li><p>Longer-lasting</p></li><li><p>Stronger against water damage (when galvanized against rust)</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Are foundation walls load-bearing?

• <div><p>Yes. Foundation walls are always load-bearing.</p></div>

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Q: Are walls on the top floor load-bearing?

• <div><p>Yes, walls on the top floor can be load-bearing if stacked on the floor&rsquo;s foundation.</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: What are the signs of structural damage?

• <div><p><a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/signs-of-structural-damage.htm">Signs of structural damage</a> include foundation cracks, roof leaks, bouncy floors, crumbling concrete, and cracked or leaning chimneys. Structural damage can make itself apparent in various ways, and sometimes, there may not be obvious signs. Inspect your foundation and roof annually to stay ahead of potentially serious structural problems. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Dunlap, IA

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Dunlap, IA 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 Dunlap, IA 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 May 24, 2026

Reviewed in May 2026
They were very professional and did a fantastic job from start to finish! I would highly recommend them. The crew was Sal,Arturo and Daniel.
Groundworks
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Reviewed in December 2024
It was a great install. They kept everything very clean from laying tarps down on our floors, to picking up all scraps both inside and out. He was very friendly and our new shower is BEAUTIFUL! Definitely recommend Mad City!
Mad City Windows & Baths
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Reviewed in September 2024
Excellent. Painting of barn was completed as agreed. Daniel and his family team were prompt, professional, and payed attention to detail.
Phil 4x13 Painting LLC
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Reviewed in July 2024
Showed up early and completed the Job!
Barry Contracting
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Reviewed in November 2023
Brian was easy to work with and had good communication! He followed up with a few small repairs! Truthful and timely!
Kitchen Design Guys TN
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Reviewed in November 2022
Awesome job bring my vision to life!
Hurst Welding, LLC
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Reviewed in October 2022
I echo the others customer's reviews. Very satisfied.
Swick's Duct Cleaning
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Reviewed in August 2022
They were very good. He explained everything n was very thorough. He cleaned out all of r air ducts n r dryer vent. We live in a 110 year old house n the vents have probably only been cleaned out once or twice. Before he left he showed me a pictures n a video of the inside of r vents.
Air Free Duct Cleaning
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Reviewed in July 2021
We were pleased with the job Nick did. He was great to work with.
Milner & Co. Roofing - Home Facebook
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Reviewed in June 2021
Our experience with Dog Guard was an amazing one. They were were knowledgeable and professional. They were also very quick to respond!
Dog Guard
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Find Structural engineers in Dunlap

Lawrence T. Butler, Professional Engineer, LLC

4.7(

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Serving Dunlap, IA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2016

Small jobs welcome

Credit card accepted

"Good job explaining everything and what to do"

Response time1 day

19 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by93%of homeowners

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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

Yes, walls on the top floor can be load-bearing if stacked on the floor’s foundation.

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.

You should pick steel for your new support beam for a few reasons. While steel is more expensive than other materials, such as laminated veneer lumber or glulam, it offers the following benefits:

Fire-resistant
Unaffected by pests
Longer-lasting
Stronger against water damage (when galvanized against rust)

Yes. Foundation walls are always load-bearing.

Signs of structural damage include foundation cracks, roof leaks, bouncy floors, crumbling concrete, and cracked or leaning chimneys. Structural damage can make itself apparent in various ways, and sometimes, there may not be obvious signs. Inspect your foundation and roof annually to stay ahead of potentially serious structural problems.

The Dunlap, IA 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

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How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Main House Support Beam? [2026 Data]
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Structural Inspection vs. Home Inspection: Which Is Right for You?
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Apr 4, 2026Apr 4, 2026
Who Can Check if a Wall Is Load-Bearing?
Before removing a wall, make sure it’s not load-bearing. Learn the benefits of hiring a structural engineer to check if a wall is load-bearing.