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>

Get matched with top structural engineers in Firth, ID

Q: How do various elements of desk design impact the overall assembly cost?

• <div><p>Costs depend on desk size, labor, included features like drawers or motorized height adjustments, and required wall anchoring.</p></div>

Q: Is precast concrete reinforced?

• <div><p>Precast concrete can be reinforced with rebar, wire mesh, or other materials to improve its strength and add stability. Precast concrete for large construction projects is often pre-stressed as well for greater structural strength. Reinforced concrete is durable and strong, making it an ideal choice for many construction projects.</p></div>

Q: How long does it take for water to cause structural damage?

• <div><p>Water can seep into porous materials like wood beams, floor joists, and roof rafters within minutes, but they&rsquo;ll need to see prolonged exposure before you have structural damage. Mold can start growing within 24 hours, and mold can eat away at the structural components over time. Wood rot is more of a concern, though. Wet and dry rot are fungal infections that set in in moist conditions and rapidly deteriorate wood, causing major structural damage within just a few months in some cases.</p></div>

Q: Is it okay to drill into a load-bearing beam?

• <div><p>You should avoid drilling or cutting into load-bearing beams because removing material will weaken it and increase the risk of structural damage or even collapse. If you do need to drill into a load-bearing beam, speak with a structural engineer first to discuss where it&rsquo;s safest to drill and the width and depth of the bit that&rsquo;s safe to use.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Firth, ID

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Firth, 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 Firth, 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 January 21, 2026

Reviewed in May 2025
Ironforged Excavation recently completed work on my property and I couldn't be more impressed. They not only delivered on their initial quote with exceptional quality but also went above and beyond by tackling several smaller projects I'd been putting off, including filling in an old...
Ironforged Excavation
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Reviewed in August 2024
I had an old tree removed, it was probably 60 feet tall(not sure on the exact height) but it was big and very dead. He did awesome removing this tree. I recommend this young man , very efficiently and cleaned the yard and hauled off the wood. I am very impressed. Thank you thank you thank you....
Westside Repair and Tree Service
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Reviewed in May 2024
Above and beyond is the phrase that describes Shawn and his crew. These folks are awsome! They are always willing to meet my needs and help out where ever possible. Id call them for any task I need. They work with other contractors as well and even had a gentleman come in and do a weld repair on...
Hughes Residential Enterprises
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Reviewed in October 2023
It was also quick and easy.
Senske Services of Idaho Falls
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Reviewed in February 2023
Ian does an amazing job. He remodeled two of my bathroom and was easy to work with and careful to make sure everything was done exactly the way I requested.
Travers Tile
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Reviewed in May 2022
Fantastic service. Clean, and dependable workers. I had my front concrete sidewalk, porch and stairs pressure washed and scrubbed. It looks amazing. Then I had them do the patio pavers and a brick laid fireplace. They look brand new. I will certainly use them again and would recommend their...
Arave Boys - Pressure Washing
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Reviewed in January 2021
The company is professional and very prompt
Advanced Plumbing & Mechanical, LLC
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Meier Architecture • Engineering

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Meier Architecture • Engineering

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44 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

Costs depend on desk size, labor, included features like drawers or motorized height adjustments, and required wall anchoring.

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.

Precast concrete can be reinforced with rebar, wire mesh, or other materials to improve its strength and add stability. Precast concrete for large construction projects is often pre-stressed as well for greater structural strength. Reinforced concrete is durable and strong, making it an ideal choice for many construction projects.

Water can seep into porous materials like wood beams, floor joists, and roof rafters within minutes, but they’ll need to see prolonged exposure before you have structural damage. Mold can start growing within 24 hours, and mold can eat away at the structural components over time. Wood rot is more of a concern, though. Wet and dry rot are fungal infections that set in in moist conditions and rapidly deteriorate wood, causing major structural damage within just a few months in some cases.

You should avoid drilling or cutting into load-bearing beams because removing material will weaken it and increase the risk of structural damage or even collapse. If you do need to drill into a load-bearing beam, speak with a structural engineer first to discuss where it’s safest to drill and the width and depth of the bit that’s safe to use.

The Firth, ID 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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