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>

Get matched with top structural engineers in Allegan, MI

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 a structural engineer the same as a foundation engineer?

• <div><p>Structural engineers specialize in all aspects of a building&rsquo;s structural integrity, including the foundation. Foundation engineering is a critical part of structural engineering, so structural engineers are experts in foundation design. Many foundation repair companies either have a structural engineer on staff or one they work closely with, so be sure you look for that when deciding <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/who-do-i-hire-foundation-repair.htm">who to hire for foundation repair</a>.</p></div>

Q: Is a structural engineer’s report worth it?

• <div><p>A structural engineer&rsquo;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&rsquo;t have to pay thousands of dollars for structural repairs right after closing on a property. </p></div>

Q: How long does a structural assessment typically take?

• <div><p>A few hours for inspection, with a detailed report following in a week.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Allegan, MI

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Allegan, 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 Allegan, 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 May 22, 2025

Reviewed in May 2025
Repaired my meter and the pipe . Also repaired my metal roof area for me this was totally unexpected.they were very nice.
Wolff Electrical
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Reviewed in August 2024
The team did a great job removing all the construction debris from my yard. They were fast, efficient, and very professional.
Daily Junk & Service
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Reviewed in September 2023
The guys from West Michigan Deck Builders were prompt, efficient, finished on time despite weather delays, and the quality of the build is exceptional. Plus, they were great with my kids who wanted to watch the process from lawn chairs in the backyard. I strongly recommend this company!!
West Michigan Deck Builders
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Reviewed in February 2023
Mike and his team we amazing to work with!! Responsive, on time, communicated through every step of the project!!! We did a complete tear off and replaced the roof, fascia, soffets and gutters!!! Highly recommend!!
Green Built Roofing, LLC
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Reviewed in January 2022
My overall experience was very positive. This team was very professional. Had solid suggestions and recommendations for my project. They finished the job very timely and cleaned up before leaving each day. Efficient and hard working. I would use them again for future flooring projects.
MFI Flooring Installation
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Reviewed in April 2021
They promised to be here in the morning and got here at noon. But then the project of putting staggered railing in went pretty smoothly. They had to borrow some of our tool as they had forgotten to bring them but the project got done all in one day. They asked me specific questions in order...
M and A Fence and Tree Services, LLC
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Reviewed in March 2021
Like a lot of homeowners in west Michigan, the roof of my house sustained damage from a hail storm back in the spring. Thankfully I found Great Lakes Building Concepts on Angie's List. My experience with the company started with them helping me with my insurance company after they had already...
Great Lakes Building Concepts
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Reviewed in November 2016
My wife and I worked with Jon on an extensive renovation/remodel, and addition. A large, complicated project to say the least. Jon stuck with us through many, many, revisions... The entire time being patient and professional. Jon's expertise and knowledge in structure and engineering helped...
Schultz Architecture
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Reviewed in November 2015
<p>The previous homeowner attempted his own repairs and only made the problems worse. The basic work on resurfacing the flat roof was pretty straightforward. The challenge was to provide drainage without installing gutters. Exposed guttering would have spoiled the look of the house. Their...
MODERN ROOFING INC
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Reviewed in July 2010
Jeff painted a huge 3000 sq ft room with 16' ceilings - had it done in a couple of days so we could move in! Also repaired some badly damaged walls and put up new walls in 2 rooms (again, with 16' ceilings). A year later, we hired him again to repair our leaky roof - he took the time to...
Jacobsen Painting
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Find Structural engineers in Allegan

Robert Cowles PE

5.0(

)

Serving Allegan, 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

12 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Foundation Specialist, LLC

4.2(

)

Serving Allegan, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"I'm selling a home in Holland. The appraiser noticed a crack in the poured concrete foundation and asked for further investigation by a licensed foundation expert. Bryan Foster showed up promptly, provided a written report that confirmed no settlement, bowing or water intrusion, and charged a fair price. I didn't need or ask for an estimate, but Mr. Foster provided one free. I appreciate that the estimate was separate from the inspection report."

Recommended by85%of homeowners

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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

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.

Structural engineers specialize in all aspects of a building’s structural integrity, including the foundation. Foundation engineering is a critical part of structural engineering, so structural engineers are experts in foundation design. Many foundation repair companies either have a structural engineer on staff or one they work closely with, so be sure you look for that when deciding who to hire for foundation repair.

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.

A few hours for inspection, with a detailed report following in a week.

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 Allegan, 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

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