Are foundation walls load-bearing?

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

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Q: Are split-level and a split-floor plan the same thing?

• <div><p>A split-level home is one that has several staggered floors connected by short staircases, while a split floor plan separates the primary bedroom from the rest of the bedrooms. Split floor plans are most often found in single-story homes, while split-level homes are always at least two stories.</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>

Q: Can I do my own structural calculations?

• <div><p>No, it&rsquo;s not legal for unlicensed individuals to conduct structural calculations for buildings or building repairs. Not only do licensing requirements prevent DIYers from tackling this project, but mistakes can also be extremely dangerous and put your property and anyone inside or near it at risk of severe injury or even death. You should always hire a licensed and certified local structural engineer to make structural calculations.</p></div>

Q: How thick are LVL beams?

• <div><p>The standard thickness for an LVL beam is between <b>1.75 inches and 7 inches</b>. However, you can order LVL beams in non-standard sizes as well. When you work with a contractor, they can source beams that are the appropriate size for your project for you after assessing your blueprints.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Shell Rock, IA

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Shell Rock, 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 Shell Rock, 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 June 04, 2026

Reviewed in June 2026
The sales engineer easily answer our questions and helped us choose the material best for us.
Seamless Exterior
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Reviewed in April 2026
Great communication. Had the team there and working on a windy day and after 3 solid rainstorms, roof looks great and more importantly, we are all dry inside. Thanks Ben and team!
Roofing Experts
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Reviewed in December 2025
Very professional and had the best work ethics I could've asked for. As a disabled person I really needed the help. As I am currently relocated here from my family. I need help on this project and I am so grateful for a pleasant opportunity to work with Atlas Construction! I am looking forward...
Rise Construction
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Reviewed in November 2024
Milledge Construction were prompt, professional and had the experience to deliver a top quality mitigation system to our home. Radon levels in our home were significantly reduced. I would recommend their mitigation system install to anyone.
Milledge Construction
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Reviewed in October 2024
As a first time home buyer, learning about home improvements, I really appreciated their patience and honesty in walking me through the process as well as choosing materials. I have had my floors done twice now due to unrelated foundation repairs. Both times, the quality of work has been...
DLR Flooring, LLC
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Reviewed in February 2024
Very professional from beginning to end. Responsive communication. Hard worker. Outstanding results. I had a new railing installed for my downstairs. Material selection, installation and finishing were impeccable. Highly recommended
Restored & Radiant LLC
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Reviewed in September 2023
Very friendly, personable, honest. Excellent looking floor replacement Very good install pricing..
Dinatallis floor covering llc
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Reviewed in October 2021
The roofing crew was fantastic. They did an excellent job, were very friendly, and cleaned up my yard after they were complete. I would hire them again in a heartbeat.
Yoder Construction of NE Iowa LLC
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Reviewed in June 2021
Mike and Robert are extremely professional and have been one of the best contractors Iâ ve ever dealt with. Their crew was very timely and worked extremely hard until the job was done. We had a very tight schedule to get our roofing completed and they accomplished it as promised. This...
ProCrafters Roofing
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Reviewed in June 2021
Mario and his crew were very professional and very careful with lawn and structure around my house. I would recommend Mario tree service to anyone who needs tree service.
Mario's Tree Services, LLC
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Find Structural engineers in Shell Rock

Konak Engineering

4.9(

)

Serving Shell Rock, 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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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

A split-level home is one that has several staggered floors connected by short staircases, while a split floor plan separates the primary bedroom from the rest of the bedrooms. Split floor plans are most often found in single-story homes, while split-level homes are always at least two stories.

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.

No, it’s not legal for unlicensed individuals to conduct structural calculations for buildings or building repairs. Not only do licensing requirements prevent DIYers from tackling this project, but mistakes can also be extremely dangerous and put your property and anyone inside or near it at risk of severe injury or even death. You should always hire a licensed and certified local structural engineer to make structural calculations.

The standard thickness for an LVL beam is between 1.75 inches and 7 inches. However, you can order LVL beams in non-standard sizes as well. When you work with a contractor, they can source beams that are the appropriate size for your project for you after assessing your blueprints.

Yes. Foundation walls are always load-bearing.

The Shell Rock, IA 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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