Get matched with top structural engineers in Alden, MI

Q: How do professionals incorporate framing into existing structures?

• <div><p>By careful planning and reinforcement to maintain structural integrity.</p></div>

Q: How can I tell if a home I purchased in an earthquake zone is bolted to the foundation?

• <div><p>Generally, you can tell if a home is bolted to the foundation by checking the foundation for plates. If you see that your foundational plates connect to wood or bolts protruding from them, this means that you have a bolted foundation. However, it's always wise to bring a home inspector in to confirm if your foundation is secure.</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: What’s the difference between an architect and an engineer?

• <div><p>The essential difference between an architect and an engineer is that architects typically focus more on the aesthetic design of buildings, although not without consideration for the structural integrity of the building. Engineers focus more on the structural, technical, and practical aspects of whether and how an architectural design can be built as drawn. You may need to hire both types of professionals if you&rsquo;re designing and building a new home.</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>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Alden, MI

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Alden, MI 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 Alden, MI 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 09, 2025

Reviewed in December 2025
I was purchasing a pre- built portable storage shed and needed a foundation put in before it was delivered. I was able to be worked into the schedule and they did a fantastic job. The guys were professional and friendly. I would definitely hire them again.
North West Home Solutions, LLC
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Reviewed in June 2025
Ray, Ryan and Jeanine were fantastic!They repaired the siding our home builder did not install correctly. They sided our 40 year old garage with siding that matched our house perfectly. They cleaned up after themselves, and were professional and personable. Highly recommend!
RAY'S SIDING
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Reviewed in October 2024
Chris Peplinski came out and gave us a fair and honest estimate on fixing our foundation. Alex and crew arrived and installed helical piers to shore up our foundation and you couldn’t tell they were even here. Everything from the first call to the install was top notch! Highly Recommend!
Groundworks
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Reviewed in April 2024
I have used them for several projects from installation and maintenance of a rock revetment, installation of stairs from the top of our bluff to the water below, plantings on our slope, and yearly installation and removal of a removal set of stairs that connect the major stairs over the rock...
The Greener Good Outdoor
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Reviewed in September 2023
They did a fantastic job from the start to the finish. I think that they went above and beyond from the site work all the way through to the end of the job very professional and made a lot of suggestions on things that should be done to make it a much better building I couldn’t be happier with...
Cherryland Contracting Services
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Reviewed in June 2023
I highly recommend Northern Earth Works and Construction whom we engaged to build a detached garage with bonus space, finish a walk-out basement and construct a patio. We are very pleased with the project as it progresses and attribute our positive experience to Caden's leadership and...
Northern Earthworks & Construction, LLC
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Reviewed in September 2021
Installed a chain link fence and did some excavating. They are experienced and detail oriented. I was very satisfied with the work performed.
R.A.W. GROUNDS MAINTENANCE
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Reviewed in September 2021
Ben did multiple projects for me getting my retirement home ready to move in. He is much more than a handyman. He remodeled my bathroom, installed hot water tank. washer and dryer, made and hung new mantle, painting, installed garage doors and opener, plus many odd jobs including cutting up 2...
MiHandyman
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Reviewed in March 2021
Mike did a terrific job remodeling my house. He also built new decks outside. Dependable hard working skilled contractor.
Mike Nichol General Contractor
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Reviewed in February 2018
The work they did has taken care of our water issues which has made those spaces usable and is helping to protect the integrity of the foundation of our home. They have their headquarters in Livonia and an office and operation in Traverse City as well. Our service was done out of the Traverse...
Foundation Systems of Michigan
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Find Structural engineers in Alden

Robert Cowles PE

5.0(

)

Serving Alden, MI and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2004

Offers commercial services

"Robert responded quickly to my request. He provided me with the services I needed in a timely fashion. I would recommend Robert Cowles PE for your project."

Response time1 day

10 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

By careful planning and reinforcement to maintain structural integrity.

Generally, you can tell if a home is bolted to the foundation by checking the foundation for plates. If you see that your foundational plates connect to wood or bolts protruding from them, this means that you have a bolted foundation. However, it's always wise to bring a home inspector in to confirm if your foundation is secure.

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.

The essential difference between an architect and an engineer is that architects typically focus more on the aesthetic design of buildings, although not without consideration for the structural integrity of the building. Engineers focus more on the structural, technical, and practical aspects of whether and how an architectural design can be built as drawn. You may need to hire both types of professionals if you’re designing and building a new home.

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.

The Alden, MI 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.
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May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Main House Support Beam? [2026 Data]
A damaged main support beam can cause serious structural damage to your house. Learn how much it costs to replace a main house support beam.
Alison Kasch
•
Apr 4, 2026Apr 4, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Remove a Load-Bearing Wall? [2026 Data]
Do you have a load-bearing wall standing between you and your projects that you want to remove? Learn about the cost of removing a load-bearing wall.
Rachel Hoffman
•
May 3, 2026May 3, 2026
15 Warning Signs That a House Will Collapse
A home doesn’t collapse unexpectedly. Learn the warning signs that a house will collapse, so you can protect your family and your home.
Kyle Schurman
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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.
Em Norton
•
May 5, 2026May 5, 2026
How to Hire a Structural Engineer: Complete Guide
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.