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: What are the signs of structural damage?

• <div><p><a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/signs-of-structural-damage.htm">Signs of structural damage</a> include foundation cracks, roof leaks, bouncy floors, crumbling concrete, and cracked or leaning chimneys. Structural damage can make itself apparent in various ways, and sometimes, there may not be obvious signs. Inspect your foundation and roof annually to stay ahead of potentially serious structural problems. </p></div>

Q: Is it okay to drill into a load-bearing beam?

• <div><p>You should avoid drilling or cutting into load-bearing beams because removing material will weaken it and increase the risk of structural damage or even collapse. If you do need to drill into a load-bearing beam, speak with a structural engineer first to discuss where it&rsquo;s safest to drill and the width and depth of the bit that&rsquo;s safe to use.</p></div>

Q: How can you tell if a crack is structural?

• <div><p>Foundation cracks that are 1/8 inch wide or less, aren&rsquo;t uneven across the gap, and don&rsquo;t continue widening over time are usually just normal settling cracks and don&rsquo;t suggest structural issues. Horizontal cracks and stair-step cracks on foundation walls, any cracks that continue widening, are wider than 1/8 inch, or where one side juts out beyond the other, are often indicative of structural damage.</p></div>

Q: What qualifications should a structural engineer have?

• <div><p>Proper licensing and experience in residential and commercial structural projects.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Pride, LA

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Pride, LA 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 Pride, LA 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 December 18, 2024

Reviewed in December 2024
Clifford and Tabatha did a fantastic job i rebuilding old flooring bracing and installing my vinyl flooring. They met any challenges with enthusiasm to conquer them. They went above and beyond to ensure good quality work.
Alpha Custom Floors LLC
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Reviewed in December 2023
Sam and his helper did an exceptional job in repairing my walls and ceiling. They made the walls and cabinet look like new. They were on time and very neat. I would recommend them for any repair or remodel you want.
M&S Sanchez Construction, LLC
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Reviewed in November 2023
Great price, great work. They removed six trees and ground the stumps all near structures on my property with no damage.
A2Z Tree Removal, LLC
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Reviewed in June 2023
Mr. Covington & his crew built a porch with steps & rails for us. It is beautiful & sturdy. All were professional, friendly, & timely. Thanks for a great job!
SnA Home Improvements
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Reviewed in February 2023
This company and owner was super friendly. Completed work same day as estimate and were very diligent in getting the job done! I would recommend them to friend and family alike! Super happy with my siding repair!
Roger D. McKinley Jr.
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Reviewed in December 2022
Used them in 2017 to build my metal building and have not had any issues. Great work and great service. No better company out there! Clay Blount Greenwell Springs, LA
Mallett Buildings Inc
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Reviewed in September 2018
I took my 2012 Chevy Colorado in for a serious engine failure. They kept it overnight, and called me the next morning. They told me that I needed a new engine, and that the total cost would be $8000. Of this estimate, $2000 was labor. I was a little surprised as I had checked some prices and was...
CAJUN AUTOMOTIVE & TIRE
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Reviewed in January 2017
They were unreliable and they ruined our engineered wood floors by installing them incorrectly. Our floors were supposed to be glue down and they are hollow like laminate. The owner was advised of the problem and walked off the job leaving us to deal with the problem. We have 1100 square feet of...
B2K Construction LLC
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Reviewed in May 2014
My roof had developed several leaks over the last three years. I was able to repair all the leaks except the last one. That's when I subscribed to Angie's List and began reading reviews for all the roofing companies in this area. <br /> The reviews for Cangelosi Roofing stood out from all the...
Cangelosi Roofing LLC
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Reviewed in October 2013
Mr. Ferriday was one of the most responsive contractors I contacted. I added on 1200 sq.ft. of shop with engineered room in attic trusses. This was a very custom build and not your run of the mill slab and stick construction job. Some of the contractors contacted bulked right out of the shoute...
Homeworks of VA
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Find Structural engineers in Pride

Hall Engineering, LLC

4.5(

)

Serving Pride, LA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2015

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Mr. Hall showed up on time and completed his work as stated. He answered all my questions and understood my concerns. He even recommended a reputable company to do the repairs."

Response time10 hrs

Response rate87%

47 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Breland Foundation Repair LLC

5.0(

)

Serving Pride, LA and surrounding areas

In business since 1990

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"They did great. Very thorough and professional"

Pier and Beam Foundation Repair, Moss Side.

Pier and Beam Foundation Repair, Riverlane Rd. Holden.

+59

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Stewart's Construction

5.0(

)

Serving Pride, LA and surrounding areas

Emergency services offered

"The project went great, kevin and I work for many years. he's one of my favorite contractors."

+11

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Cypress Engineering, LLC

New to Angi

Serving Pride, LA and surrounding areas

In business since 2006

Credit card accepted

Cypress Engineering specializes in soil and structural engineering and is the consumate engineering firm in Louisiana. Call today and speak to one of our knowledgeable professionals!

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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

Signs of structural damage include foundation cracks, roof leaks, bouncy floors, crumbling concrete, and cracked or leaning chimneys. Structural damage can make itself apparent in various ways, and sometimes, there may not be obvious signs. Inspect your foundation and roof annually to stay ahead of potentially serious structural problems.

You should avoid drilling or cutting into load-bearing beams because removing material will weaken it and increase the risk of structural damage or even collapse. If you do need to drill into a load-bearing beam, speak with a structural engineer first to discuss where it’s safest to drill and the width and depth of the bit that’s safe to use.

Foundation cracks that are 1/8 inch wide or less, aren’t uneven across the gap, and don’t continue widening over time are usually just normal settling cracks and don’t suggest structural issues. Horizontal cracks and stair-step cracks on foundation walls, any cracks that continue widening, are wider than 1/8 inch, or where one side juts out beyond the other, are often indicative of structural damage.

Proper licensing and experience in residential and commercial structural projects.

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)

The Pride, LA 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

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May 5, 2026May 5, 2026
How Much Does Beam Installation Cost [2026 Data]
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How Much Does It Cost to Remove a Load-Bearing Wall? [2026 Data]
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•
Mar 19, 2026Mar 19, 2026
Who to Hire to Replace a Sill Plate?
A sill plate needs to be replaced when it starts to rot out. Use this guide to help you know who to hire to replace a sill plate at your home.
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What to Expect From a Structural Engineer Foundation Inspection
Identify potentially serious problems with your foundation with an inspection from a structural engineer.
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Structural Steel Beam vs. Wood Beam: Which Is Right for You?
Structural steel and wood beams ensure your house is structurally sound. Learn the difference between steel and wood beams and how to choose the right one.