Residential structural engineering serving the St. Louis/St. Charles area since 2005. Five on staff engineers available for your complete residential engineering concerns and design needs. Providing foundation, roof trusses. wood, steel, concrete evaluations and design. Limestone and poured foundations, brick homes. Decks. Remodeling projects. Additions, and much more- call us to discuss your needs!
A+ Rated, Accredited with the Better Business Bureau. BBB link: http://www.bbb.org/stlouis/business-reviews/contractors-general/alliance-contracting-solutions-in-saint-louis-mo-310013526\n2015 Super Service Award!
Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts
In framing, studs are placed at 16-inch intervals to coincide with the typical spacing of wall materials such as drywall or plywood. This spacing is called "on-center" and is necessary for maintaining structural stability and efficient use of materials. The 16-inch spacing also helps to distribute the weight evenly across the building's structure. For those looking to cut material costs and improve energy efficiency, 24-inch stud spacing can be employed through a method called "advanced framing". This requires careful planning and adherence to local building codes to ensure structural integrity.
The process of hiring a structural engineer starts by finding reliable professionals in your area and comparing quotes from at least three of them. From there, you can narrow down your selection by asking some leading questions:
Do you have experience working in my specific area?
Do you have professional indemnity insurance?
What will your structural report cover?
Do you charge a flat fee for a structural report or by the hour?
How long have you been in business?
Do you have a list of customer references?
Structural engineers draw structural plans, which include detailed drawings of the structural components of a home only. Complete house plans will require additional work from an architect or draftsperson, whose drawings will take the structural drawings into account. They’ll also include more details about the finishing materials and layout of a home, including everything from roofing and flooring materials to the position of furniture, light fixtures, switches, and plumbing fixtures.
The best way to determine if ceiling cracks are structural is to hire a ceiling contractor to inspect the cracks and provide a professional opinion. That said, you might be able to make an educated guess based on the size and appearance of the crack. Larger cracks, cracks accompanied by sagging or discoloration, and cracks that travel from the ceiling down the walls are all signs of structural issues.
A structural engineer’s report is almost always worth it, as it can help you avoid buying or overpaying for a home with structural issues. The most important thing the report does for you is provide peace of mind that you won’t have to pay thousands of dollars for structural repairs right after closing on a property.
The Valmeyer, IL homeowners’ guide to structural engineering services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
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 in St. Louis, MO.
Kick erosion to the curb with an eye-catching retaining wall. Retaining wall costs in St Louis, MO, vary based on the material, but this guide will help you budget.
Whether you're dreaming up a new office or a peaceful sunroom, home addition costs will shape your design. Learn how much a home addition costs in St Louis, MO.
It can be hard to choose the right pro for any job, but it matters. Learn how to hire a structural engineer who'll get the job done right from start to finish.
