How do you choose a residential structural engineer?

• <div><p>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:</p><ul><li><p>Do you have experience working in my specific area?</p></li><li><p>Do you have professional indemnity insurance?</p></li><li><p>What will your structural report cover?</p></li><li><p>Do you charge a flat fee for a structural report or by the hour?</p></li><li><p>How long have you been in business?</p></li><li><p>Do you have a list of customer references?</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Do I need a structural engineer to knock down a wall?

• <div><p>In many areas, advice from a structural engineer or an architect will be required by your building department before you can remove a wall, but even if it’s not necessary, it’s a good idea. Accidentally removing a load-bearing wall—even if a general contractor advises that it’s safe—can cause major structural damage, putting you and your family at risk and potentially costing thousands or tens of thousands of dollars in property damage.</p></div>

Get matched with top structural engineers in Waterman, IL

Q: What are the typical warning signs of a structural issue in my home?

• <div><p>Indications include cracks in walls, uneven floors, and sticking doors or windows that suggest foundation movements.</p></div>

Q: How thick are LVL beams?

• <div><p>The standard thickness for an LVL beam is between <b>1.75 inches and 7 inches</b>. However, you can order LVL beams in non-standard sizes as well. When you work with a contractor, they can source beams that are the appropriate size for your project for you after assessing your blueprints.</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>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your structural engineering project in Waterman, IL?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Waterman, IL

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Waterman, 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 Waterman, 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 August 24, 2024

Reviewed in August 2024
we used home restoration experts inc to roof and side our home excellent quality job thank you Jonathan and crew signed Larry and LuAnn Beck
Home Restoration Experts Inc.
Request a quote
Reviewed in December 2023
I am the condo president for a multi-unit building. Mr Casimir and crew have managed plumbing in my building for the last several years. He and the crew have managed our annual service to hydro jet our main line, catch basin, and clean outs. They have also managed kitchen lines as hoc. We...
M&C Plumbing
Request a quote
Reviewed in April 2022
I hired them to do attic insulation and garage insulation. Their works are clean and efficient.
ADL Brothers, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in January 2022
I selected your team because, while you were at my home, you contacted White Glove radon testing. I was so impressed by the creative and team work attitude you had. Your comments of White Glove excellent work, prompted me to use them again for the final test. I could have chosen anyone, but...
ELLIOTT & ASSOCIATES INC
Request a quote
Reviewed in May 2021
Tom did an awesome job! We have cathedral ceilings in the foyer and master bedroom. He was able to fix all the nail pops plus fix the cracks and the hanging drywall tape that some of our walls had. The paint job and the drywall repairs make our walls look new. He also was reasonably priced. ...
Dreesen Brothers Construction
Request a quote
Reviewed in September 2020
Very recently I lost all my possessions and home to a fire. Steve made a very difficult time easier with his great service and kindness. He removed my structure in a very short time frame and did great work. We had some obstacles but he was very helpful in in overcoming them. I would recommend...
Larson Homes, Inc.
Request a quote
Reviewed in April 2019
I have used Brian and Sons for five years now. They have installed new equipment, performed repairs, and PM cleaning/system checks. They are very responsive (Debbie is great) to service calls. They work around my schedule and it is nice that Paul, the technician, is the same tech as last visit....
Brian and Sons INC.
Request a quote
Reviewed in January 2016
The owner, bid us a large project finishing the basement and re-structuring our downstairs bathroom. He worked with us to get it down to a manageable and do-able project. We ended up patching a large section of drywall in the corner and ripped up part of the floor (removing sink and toilet and...
Redwood Builders
Request a quote
Reviewed in October 2014
The tear down and rebuild of the main porch was done over a few days, very quickly. The structure of the new porch is very solid. We are extremely happy and pleased with our new front porch. The company and team was very professional and did a great job! Premier Builders comes highly...
Chicago Premier Properties, Inc.
Request a quote
Reviewed in October 2014
We have a house that is about 55 years old, and the exterior fireplace is all original structure. The concrete chimney crown was deteriorating to the point where it was coming apart. In addition to an extremely poor appearance, our homeowners insurance company deemed it a safety hazard due to...
Pozzi Chimney Sweep Inc
Request a quote

Find Structural engineers in Waterman

American Custom Homes

5.0(

)

Serving Waterman, 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

Request Quote

Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

Indications include cracks in walls, uneven floors, and sticking doors or windows that suggest foundation movements.

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?

The standard thickness for an LVL beam is between 1.75 inches and 7 inches. However, you can order LVL beams in non-standard sizes as well. When you work with a contractor, they can source beams that are the appropriate size for your project for you after assessing your blueprints.

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.

In many areas, advice from a structural engineer or an architect will be required by your building department before you can remove a wall, but even if it’s not necessary, it’s a good idea. Accidentally removing a load-bearing wall—even if a general contractor advises that it’s safe—can cause major structural damage, putting you and your family at risk and potentially costing thousands or tens of thousands of dollars in property damage.

The Waterman, 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

Timothy Moore
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Install an LVL Beam? [2026 Data]
Looking to remove load-bearing walls and vertical supports to open up your living space? Learn about what affects the cost to install an LVL beam.
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.
Dan Simms
•
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
•
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.
Dan Simms
•
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.