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>

Get matched with top structural engineers in Lisbon, IA

Q: Why are houses built with crawl spaces?

• <div><p>The primary reason homes have crawl spaces is so the foundation can reach down below the frost line to avoid dangerous soil movement and structural damage when the ground freezes. They&rsquo;re more popular in colder climates where the ground freezes down to a few feet, and slabs are most popular in warmer areas where there is no frost line. Crawl spaces also provide a space for utility lines to run where they&rsquo;re at less of a risk of freezing.</p></div>

Q: How do I know if cracks are structural?

• <div><p>The best way to determine if ceiling cracks are structural is to hire a ceiling contractor to inspect the cracks and provide a professional opinion. That said, you might be able to make an educated guess based on the size and appearance of the crack. Larger cracks, cracks accompanied by sagging or discoloration, and cracks that travel from the ceiling down the walls are all signs of structural issues.</p></div>

Q: What is considered a structural issue in a house?

• <div><p>Any issue that affects the structural integrity or soundness of a home is considered a structural issue. In addition to foundation cracks, other signs of structural issues include roof leaks, bowing walls, sloping floors, gaps around windows and doors, and more.</p></div>

Q: Is a structural engineer the same as a builder?

• <div><p>No, a structural engineer is not the same as a builder. A structural engineer is an expert in all things related to the structural integrity of a building. The structural engineer is responsible for calculating the correct materials in terms of load-bearing capacity and overall structural safety. Structural engineers do not perform the actual building of the house or other structures. Rather, the builder executes the plans and designs specified by the structural engineer.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Lisbon, IA

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Lisbon, 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 Lisbon, 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 November 10, 2025

Reviewed in November 2025
Professional, flexible, timely and cost efficient. Proficient in a variety of construction skills.
Hunter Handiworks
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Reviewed in April 2025
I work full time and and run a small auto repair and weld shop as a side hustle. I don’t have the time or the patience for 90% of the “help” that’s out there today. Mike Williams is a man we can depend on to do the job and do it right. He has hung doors, patched our overhead door, patched...
Beyond Fabrication & Repair
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Reviewed in May 2023
New metal roof installed looks great done right away would recommend A+ company
Palm Beach Roof Cleaners
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Reviewed in May 2022
They did a great job at everything; Cement removal, laying new cement, clean up, and communication. We will use them for all of our future projects. We had such a good experience.
Geode Contracting
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Reviewed in April 2022
10/10 Zechariah did a wonderful job on our home. We had a complete exterior remodel. He assisted with concept and design, to full execution. Siding, Facia, Soffit, you name it, he can do it! Highly recommend. You will be so pleased with the outcome! Perfection is what you will get!
Rottweiler Remodel & Repair, LLC
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Reviewed in August 2020
We had a structural engineer inspect the wall because it is falling and said probably not built up to specs he gave for the project and was taken to court we won and he has never paid the court ordered judgement NEVER HIRE HIS BUSINESS !!!!!!!!!
Greg's Lawn & Landscaping
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Reviewed in March 2017
7 new columns were installed including new footings. This is very physical labor and very taxing on the body: hammering old concrete, hand digging footings, properly installing new footings, this was a lot of dirt, rock and cement going in and out of the basement, yet the crew (Justin,...
MidAmerica Basement Systems
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Reviewed in December 2016
I had called around 7 different contractors to get estimates for the work. Home Town Restyling quickly returned my call and set up an appointment to come do the estimate. I was extremely impressed with their quote process. It was very detailed and they give you the quote before they leave unlike...
Home Town Restyling
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Reviewed in August 2016
Started out great. Dave was very responsive in getting the quote to us, answering our questions and putting our minds at ease. The materials arrived on time, and the initial build and demo was on time. Things went downhill from there. We signed our project in April 2015 and it still isn't done....
DRH Construction
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Reviewed in June 2016
House doctors was a great experience! They showed up on time, were courteous and, kept a tidy work space. <br>Kieth and Shane are a father son team. They have a great relationship, and it shows by how well they work together. The day they bid my job, Kieth was careful to listen to my plan....
House Doctors
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Find Structural engineers in Lisbon

Konak Engineering

4.9(

)

Serving Lisbon, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2004

Free estimates

"Aaron was very prompt in calling us and getting something scheduled so he could come take a look at the issue we have with our home . We feel comfortable moving forward now that Aaron has taken a look and provided some resources that we can contact.. Would recommend."

Response time1 day

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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FMI Consulting

New to Angi

Serving Lisbon, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2009

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

FMI Consulting is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

The primary reason homes have crawl spaces is so the foundation can reach down below the frost line to avoid dangerous soil movement and structural damage when the ground freezes. They’re more popular in colder climates where the ground freezes down to a few feet, and slabs are most popular in warmer areas where there is no frost line. Crawl spaces also provide a space for utility lines to run where they’re at less of a risk of freezing.

The best way to determine if ceiling cracks are structural is to hire a ceiling contractor to inspect the cracks and provide a professional opinion. That said, you might be able to make an educated guess based on the size and appearance of the crack. Larger cracks, cracks accompanied by sagging or discoloration, and cracks that travel from the ceiling down the walls are all signs of structural issues.

Any issue that affects the structural integrity or soundness of a home is considered a structural issue. In addition to foundation cracks, other signs of structural issues include roof leaks, bowing walls, sloping floors, gaps around windows and doors, and more.

No, a structural engineer is not the same as a builder. A structural engineer is an expert in all things related to the structural integrity of a building. The structural engineer is responsible for calculating the correct materials in terms of load-bearing capacity and overall structural safety. Structural engineers do not perform the actual building of the house or other structures. Rather, the builder executes the plans and designs specified by the structural engineer.

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)

The Lisbon, 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

Dan Simms
•
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.
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.
Dan Simms
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does a Structural Engineer Cost to Hire? [2026 Data]
The cost of a structural engineer is easily justifiable given the value they bring to the table. Use this guide to see what hiring your professional will total.
Rachel Hoffman
•
May 21, 2026May 21, 2026
What to Expect From a Structural Engineer Foundation Inspection
Identify potentially serious problems with your foundation with an inspection from a structural engineer.
Em Norton
•
Apr 10, 2026Apr 10, 2026
Everything to Know About LVL Beams
What is an LVL beam? Read about LVL beams to determine if this material is safe and suitable for your project.
Dan Simms
•
Apr 9, 2026Apr 9, 2026
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.