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>

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Q: Why should I add structural support for my house after I raise it?

• <div><p>If your home's foundation was damaged due to shifting soil, the same problem will reoccur unless you stabilize the structure by adding posts in the bedrock.</p></div>

Q: What simultaneous construction tasks are recommended alongside this project?

• <div><p>While concrete walls do not need to &quot;breathe&quot; in the traditional sense of the word, they do require waterproofing and dehumidifying methods, particularly in basements below the water table. Concrete both contains moisture from its initial installation and can absorb water when exposed. Ensuring proper basement ventilation , installing a vapor barrier, and controlling water exposure are all important tasks.</p></div>

Q: Can I cut or drill LVL beams?

• <div><p>It is not recommended to cut or drill into LVL (laminated veneer lumber) beams. As major structural components of a home, their composite structure can be compromised by alterations, which can weaken them and lead to cracking over time. If you must make modifications to an LVL beam, it is crucial to consult a structural engineer or general contractor first. A professional can advise on whether it's safe and provide specifics on the appropriate bit size, depth, and directionality for any necessary drilling.</p></div>

Q: How do professionals ensure durability in wall construction?

• <div><p>Through proper drainage solutions and compacting the foundation soil.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Sheffield, IL

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Sheffield, IL 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 Sheffield, IL 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 September 22, 2025

Reviewed in September 2025
They did a wonderful job. Fast and professional. The floor looks beautiful.
Redemption Home Improvement LLC
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Reviewed in October 2024
Doryan inspected my basement and wrote my contract. He explained everything involved and kept in contact with me, letting me know when the work would start. Alec was in charge of my contract work and he was very knowledgeable and thorough. He called letting me know what time they would be there...
Foundation Recovery Systems
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Reviewed in June 2023
Though I seldom write reviews of work completed or for the workers that have done that work, I am making an exception this time. My wife and I requested several items to be undertaken by Elite Siding and Gutters of Spring Valley, Illinois. As we learned of their total versatility, we requested...
Elite Seamless Gutters, Inc.
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Reviewed in September 2022
The salesman Jason was great to work with, even though I never met him in person due to my schedule he was easy to communicate with, and very responsive to answer any questions. The work was completed in a timely fashion and they took care to make sure they did not get overspray of the foam on...
Home Comfort, Inc.
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Reviewed in September 2022
Great experience! Team did great in explaining what insulation I had in the attic, what they were blowing in, and how it'd help out in maintaining temps in the long run. Finished job in 1 day. Would highly recommend!
Illinois Valley Insulation
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Reviewed in March 2022
This garage door installer was on top of our job from beginning to end. They came out the same day to look at the job. Once the replacement door was received, they were on time to do the work. They worked through the installation in a timely manner. They were always polite and careful to...
Five Star Garage Doors
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Reviewed in February 2022
Very professional, showed up on time everyday, finished early. Very pleased with finished project!
BuildRite Home Pro's LLC
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Reviewed in October 2021
Excellent. Very friendly and dependable! They fix a mess that was caused by another construction Co. I would highly recommend Yodelay to anyone for dependable and reliable service! Thank you Nick Mercer.
Yodelay Construction, Inc.
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Reviewed in October 2021
Advanced Moving and Storage movers were simply the best. They arrived on time with their packaging material and foreman explained me the paper work quickly then they are onto the work. All my items were treated with utmost care. They moved fragile and heavy items without any hassle. The price...
Advanced Moving & Storage, Inc.
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Reviewed in December 2016
Technician showed up about an hour and a half after I called, which was very prompt. He went about diagnosing the problem in about 15 minutes determine the blower needed to be replaced. Went down to his truck and wrote up a work order. I thought the price was pretty high for the work and part...
Town & Country Services
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American Custom Homes

5.0(

)

Serving Sheffield, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 2000

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

"I would like to start off with precise, warm welcome and highly responsible of what they are doing. They really know what they are doing and from start from start to end it has been a great project with new experiences and great craftsmanship. Thanks again guys and i hope to have more work for you soon...
"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

If your home's foundation was damaged due to shifting soil, the same problem will reoccur unless you stabilize the structure by adding posts in the bedrock.

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)

While concrete walls do not need to "breathe" in the traditional sense of the word, they do require waterproofing and dehumidifying methods, particularly in basements below the water table. Concrete both contains moisture from its initial installation and can absorb water when exposed. Ensuring proper basement ventilation , installing a vapor barrier, and controlling water exposure are all important tasks.

It is not recommended to cut or drill into LVL (laminated veneer lumber) beams. As major structural components of a home, their composite structure can be compromised by alterations, which can weaken them and lead to cracking over time. If you must make modifications to an LVL beam, it is crucial to consult a structural engineer or general contractor first. A professional can advise on whether it's safe and provide specifics on the appropriate bit size, depth, and directionality for any necessary drilling.

Through proper drainage solutions and compacting the foundation soil.

The Sheffield, IL 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 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.
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May 5, 2026May 5, 2026
How Much Does Beam Installation Cost [2026 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.
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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.
Rachel Hoffman
•
May 3, 2026May 3, 2026
10 Signs of Structural Damage in Your Home
Keeping your home safe and structurally sound should be a top priority. Learn to recognize the signs of structural damage you should never ignore.
Rachel Hoffman
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Apr 4, 2026Apr 4, 2026
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.
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•
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.