Get matched with top carport repair pros in Cheneyville, LA

Not all porch columns are load-bearing, though they can be. Some porch columns are simply decorative. There are ways to identify a load-bearing column, like looking for visible seams and a foundation. Also, check to see if the column directly enters the ground. In some porch installations, a contractor will excavate a hole to install a column into the earth along with a buried cement base for stability.

Your local building code will list all the framing requirements for whatever type of structure you're building. Most exterior walls require spacing of 16 inches on-center, while many non-load-bearing interior walls only require 24 inches of spacing. However, there are also varying requirements depending on your construction material, so checking your municipality's rules is essential.

Framing is the shell of the house. It includes several steps, including studs, plumbing, and electricity. A professional will ensure the wall frame is secured for the house’s structural integrity. 

Framing prices change depending on the material and whether the wall is load-bearing. Most contractors use wood to frame a home, but metal is another popular choice.

Sagging floors, large cracks in your walls, and uneven door frames are three signs that your floor joists need to be replaced. You may also notice squeaky floorboards, windows that no longer close correctly, and stairs that sag on either side. You'll need a structural engineer or floor contractor to confirm whether the floor joists are the true problem behind these issues.