Is LVL more affordable than steel I-beams?

• <div><p>Yes, an LVL beam is more affordable than the <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-steel-i-beam-cost.htm">cost of a steel I-beam</a>, totaling between $50 and $200 per linear foot as opposed to the $100 to $400 per linear foot you’d pay for a steel I-beam. Not only is the wood material more affordable than steel, but it’s also more similar to traditional wooden beams and doesn’t require as much retrofitting to connect joists. </p></div>

Can I cut or drill LVL beams?

• <div><p>Because of their composite structure, cutting or drilling LVL beams can compromise their integrity. We strongly advise contacting a general contractor or <a href="https://www.angi.com/nearme/structural-engineers/">structural engineer</a> before making any alterations to LVL beams. Professionals can also answer questions about choosing between a<a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/pier-and-beam-vs-slab.htm"> pier and beam versus slab foundation</a> when designing your project.</p></div>

Get matched with top structural engineers in Bellevue, ID

Q: What types of projects require a structural engineer’s expertise?

• <div><p>Structural engineers are necessary for projects involving alterations to load-bearing structures, foundation work, and compliance with safety standards. This includes home expansions, retaining walls, and significant repairs that impact a property's integrity.</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: If you do the work yourself, how can you be sure your home is still structurally sound?

• <div><p>If you intend to do the majority of the work yourself, you can <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-architect-cost.htm">pay to hire an architect</a> or a structural engineer to ensure your home remains structurally sound. They can help with the planning to make sure everything is up to code and safe for your family. On the other hand, if you&rsquo;re not sure your home will be completely safe when you&rsquo;ve completed the project, let a pro do the job.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Bellevue, ID

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Bellevue, ID 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 Bellevue, ID 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 October 18, 2025

Reviewed in August 2025
We purchased two new sliding glass doors at a home show. We wanted to replace ours because they were hard to slide open and closed. We have been VERY UNSATISFIED with Amazing Exteriors and REGRET ever buying them! They were a month late with the installation and never updated us to tell us when...
Amazing Exterior's of Idaho
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Reviewed in June 2023
Awesome work and communication throughout the project. Could not meet a more friendly and awesome couple. There were removed several large trees overhanging fence lines, power lines, property lines, and structures. They did such a good job that I referred them to my fathers home for additional...
5C Tree Cutters, LLC
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Reviewed in August 2014
Arrived on monday at 9am as agreed. Keith made quick work of the first side of the wall demolition. The most impressive aspect of his work throughout, and at the end of the first day; was how clean he maintained the work area! So, he worked quickly and cleaned things up as he worked. A very cool...
Hooked On Construction
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Reviewed in September 2013
About a month ago the owner, Bob Potter, came to bid on the project. He offered suggestions and we agreed on what needed to be done. The evening before the work was done he called to say tomorrow is the day. Fortunately it worked out well for me. The short notice was a bit surprising. The crew...
ADVANTAGE TREE CARE
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Reviewed in August 2013
Jeff was very professional and had a good level of communication throughout the process. He is busy, and I had to wait a couple weeks before he could take my truck but it was worth the wait. He had the engine steam cleaned and called me with a preliminary diagnosis within a couple hours of...
Askew Machine and Perfomance-Jeff Askew South Side
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Reviewed in July 2013
The work went well few if any problems; owner made a trip to local hardware type store to purchase special colored screws, while repair shop owner removed the engine from the boat; flashing pieces were installed and motor was reattached to boat. The result was even better than hoped for, I could...
Ultra Marine Performance
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Reviewed in June 2013
After the safety check was complete, the salesperson came out with a form that indicated that there was a major leak of coolant and engine oil from a failed head gasket. The repair for the head gasket was quoted at $1600. Since I had never had a problem with leaking oil or overheating, I asked...
Phil Meador Toyota
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Reviewed in April 2013
After months of sub-par performance from my regular mechanic, I was desperate to find a new one who could provide the kind of trustworthy service I used to have but lost. Some background: My old repair shop, Bill and Mike's, which I'd frequented for 20 years because of great service and...
MASTER MECHANIX
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Find Structural engineers in Bellevue

Meier Architecture • Engineering

8697 W. Gage Blvd.

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Meier Architecture • Engineering

8697 W. Gage Blvd.

No reviews yet

43 years of experience

Meier Architecture & Engineering, an Employee Owned company, is a full-service architectural and engineering consulting firm with Registered Architects and licensed Professional Engineers in Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, and Structural Engineering. Formed in 1982, has successfully completed more than 6,600 projects in the past 29 years. Meier Architecture & Engineering, an award winning company providing services from coast to coast, as well as worldwide, we are licensed in 28 states and serve as members of many professional, discipline-specific associations. Mindful of our future, members of our staff are also accredited in Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED).

Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

Structural engineers are necessary for projects involving alterations to load-bearing structures, foundation work, and compliance with safety standards. This includes home expansions, retaining walls, and significant repairs that impact a property's integrity.

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.

Yes, an LVL beam is more affordable than the cost of a steel I-beam, totaling between $50 and $200 per linear foot as opposed to the $100 to $400 per linear foot you’d pay for a steel I-beam. Not only is the wood material more affordable than steel, but it’s also more similar to traditional wooden beams and doesn’t require as much retrofitting to connect joists.

Because of their composite structure, cutting or drilling LVL beams can compromise their integrity. We strongly advise contacting a general contractor or structural engineer before making any alterations to LVL beams. Professionals can also answer questions about choosing between a pier and beam versus slab foundation when designing your project.

If you intend to do the majority of the work yourself, you can pay to hire an architect or a structural engineer to ensure your home remains structurally sound. They can help with the planning to make sure everything is up to code and safe for your family. On the other hand, if you’re not sure your home will be completely safe when you’ve completed the project, let a pro do the job.

The Bellevue, ID 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
•
Oct 15, 2025Oct 15, 2025
How Much Does Beam Installation Cost [2025 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.
Dan Simms
•
Oct 13, 2025Oct 13, 2025
How Much Does Steel I-Beam Installation Cost? [2025 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
•
Jun 6, 2025Jun 6, 2025
2025 Cost to Replace a Main House Support Beam
A damaged main support beam can cause serious structural damage to your house. Learn how much it costs to replace a main house support beam.
Rachel Hoffman
•
Nov 19, 2024Nov 19, 2024
Are Squeaky Floors a Structural Problem?
A squeaky floor may just be an annoyance, or it may signal a structural problem. Learn when to be concerned about a squeaky floor.
Rachel Hoffman
•
Nov 13, 2024Nov 13, 2024
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.
Dan Simms
•
Oct 24, 2024Oct 24, 2024
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.