Are trusses better than rafters?

• <div><p><a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/rafters-vs-trusses.htm">Trusses and rafters</a> each have advantages and disadvantages, so one isn’t necessarily better than the other. For example, trusses are more affordable and often come in prefabricated kits, so they’re easier to build than rafters. However, rafters are available in a variety of designs, so it’s easier to find one that fits your style preferences. Plus, if you want to build an attic at some point down the line, it’s far easier to do that with rafters rather than trusses.</p></div>

Does a structural engineer need to be licensed?

• <div><p>Yes, all states require structural engineers to carry the proper license, with specifics determined by each state. You can use Angi’s <a href="https://www.angi.com/angi-license-check.htm">state licensing tool</a> to confirm that the structural engineer you’re considering holds the required licensing to tackle your job. Hiring an unlicensed structural engineer will not only cause issues with permits but it could also lead to an unsafe building. The cost of a professional, licensed, and experienced engineer is well worth the investment.</p></div>

Get matched with top structural engineers in Richfield, ID

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: 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: 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>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Richfield, ID

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Richfield, 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 Richfield, 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 November 24, 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 September 2013
Kept the car for 2 days to check the engine. Learned it was the gas tank and not engine. Very thorough
Lithia Chrysler Jeep Dodge Of Pocatello
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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 Richfield

Meier Architecture • Engineering

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Meier Architecture • Engineering

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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

Trusses and rafters each have advantages and disadvantages, so one isn’t necessarily better than the other. For example, trusses are more affordable and often come in prefabricated kits, so they’re easier to build than rafters. However, rafters are available in a variety of designs, so it’s easier to find one that fits your style preferences. Plus, if you want to build an attic at some point down the line, it’s far easier to do that with rafters rather than trusses.

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

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.

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.

Yes, all states require structural engineers to carry the proper license, with specifics determined by each state. You can use Angi’s state licensing tool to confirm that the structural engineer you’re considering holds the required licensing to tackle your job. Hiring an unlicensed structural engineer will not only cause issues with permits but it could also lead to an unsafe building. The cost of a professional, licensed, and experienced engineer is well worth the investment.

The Richfield, 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
•
Aug 14, 2025Aug 14, 2025
How Much Does a Structural Engineer Cost to Hire? [2025 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.
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.
Deirdre Sullivan
•
Oct 13, 2025Oct 13, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Vault a Ceiling? [2025 Data]
Looking to expand your ceiling and send claustrophobia running for the hills? This guide covers the cost to vault a ceiling and factors that impact estimates.
Rachel Hoffman
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Aug 6, 2025Aug 6, 2025
Steel Beam Sizes and Dimensions Guide
Steel beams are critical framing components that support your house. Learn about steel beam sizes and how to determine what size steel beam you need.
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.
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.