Get matched with top structural engineers in Benton Harbor, MI

Q: Do squeaky floors mean structural damage?

• <div><p>No, squeaky floors do not always mean there is structural damage. The noise is often caused by friction from issues like loose floorboards, gaps between the subfloor and joists, or loose subflooring. While many squeaks are harmless, persistent or worsening noise could indicate a more severe problem. If you notice other signs of structural damage&mdash;such as soft or sagging floors, cracks running from the wall to the ceiling, or horizontal cracks in your foundation&mdash;it's best to have a professional inspect your floor to determine the root cause.</p></div>

Q: Is precast concrete reinforced?

• <div><p>Precast concrete can be reinforced with rebar, wire mesh, or other materials to improve its strength and add stability. Precast concrete for large construction projects is often pre-stressed as well for greater structural strength. Reinforced concrete is durable and strong, making it an ideal choice for many construction projects.</p></div>

Q: Are beams and joists the same?

• <div><p>No, beams are the primary load-bearers for flooring or roofing systems, and they distribute the weight of the structure to your foundational supports, while joists bear far less weight and distribute their loads to the beams. Beams are usually thicker and longer, and they have support posts or foundation walls beneath them for support.</p></div>

Q: Are all exterior walls load-bearing?

• <div><p>It's safe to assume that all exterior walls are load-bearing, or at least have load-bearing characteristics. Some older homes feature porches or bump-outs that don't rest on the home's foundation. However, they still must carry the weight of the roof section they support. Walls containing floor-to-ceiling glass or other non-structural elements must use post and beam configurations to meet load-bearing criteria. </p></div>

Q: Can termite damage affect home structural value?

• <div><p>Yes, unresolved damage can decrease property integrity and market value.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Benton Harbor, MI

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Benton Harbor, 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 Benton Harbor, 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 29, 2024

Reviewed in May 2024
I was very pleased with my wood fence. They went above and beyond with any concerns i had with design and layout. I highly recommend this company.
FENCE SOLUTIONS LLC
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Reviewed in March 2024
We are very pleased with our new roof and looking forward to more projects with them.
Huckins Construction LLC
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Reviewed in April 2022
We had Taku from TKZ Architecture design and monitor the construction of our large family home. The experience was excellent. We highly recommend this firm.
TKZ Architecture LLC
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Reviewed in May 2018
Our concrete slab house had existing hardwood flooring that was badly damaged by a major water heater leak and we needed to replace the entire 2k sq. ft house of hardwood flooring. It was a huge job that many we brought by/called to quote turned down on the spot. Cortez Flooring, however, not...
Cortez Flooring Inc
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Reviewed in April 2017
We did not hire this contractor -- our neighbors did. When ever this contractor is in the neighborhood we have a mess to clean up. This is our second house and the third mess. We would NEVER hire this company for fear of the mess they would leave for our neighbors. Still have a mess in the...
NATURE'S WAY LANDSCAPING
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Reviewed in August 2016
Absolutely professional, the tree that came down in the storm was massive and covered 2 structures across 3 properties. Alvaro is the owner and was great to deal with. They did such a great job with the removal and clean up. I would highly recommend them!
Reyes Tree Service
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Reviewed in July 2015
The quality of the cuts for the fit and finish on the metal sheeting is poor and the flashing looks questionable also and it has taken over 1 month to install. They ran out of cap material and had to order more and it will take over a week to get the rest of the material. The pile of material...
Gutter Helmet of Michigan
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Reviewed in May 2013
Dan from Molnar Construction's price was reasonable and the house was built in the 1940s so he was reasonable about upcharges in terms of finding rotten floor joists or whatever that had to be replaced that weren't part of the original quote. He's a good listener and was able to come up with...
Molnar Construction
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Reviewed in April 2013
I hired Bennett construction to pour a new concrete patio and steps in my backyard. I had torn out an pre-existing wooden deck, and wanted to replace with something much longer lasting. While Bennett Construction wasn't the cheapest bid for the job, they were by far the most professional, and...
BENNETT CONSTRUCTION
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Find Structural engineers in Benton Harbor

Robert Cowles PE

5.0(

)

Serving Benton Harbor, 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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American Basement Solutions

4.3(

)

Serving Benton Harbor, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 1992

Credit card accepted

"Work went well. Crew arrived when scheduled and on time. Seemed very professional, friendly, and conscientious. They showed me what they were doing and how the piers would be installed. I gathered 5 quotes for the job and they were the most professional/competitive of everyone I spoke with and I was not disappointed. Only minor complaint would be that it seemed the grading on the back fill was left a bit high. I was told it would settle, but I doubt it will settle that much. Not a big deal--I would still highly recommend them."

Recommended by85%of homeowners

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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

No, squeaky floors do not always mean there is structural damage. The noise is often caused by friction from issues like loose floorboards, gaps between the subfloor and joists, or loose subflooring. While many squeaks are harmless, persistent or worsening noise could indicate a more severe problem. If you notice other signs of structural damage—such as soft or sagging floors, cracks running from the wall to the ceiling, or horizontal cracks in your foundation—it's best to have a professional inspect your floor to determine the root cause.

Precast concrete can be reinforced with rebar, wire mesh, or other materials to improve its strength and add stability. Precast concrete for large construction projects is often pre-stressed as well for greater structural strength. Reinforced concrete is durable and strong, making it an ideal choice for many construction projects.

No, beams are the primary load-bearers for flooring or roofing systems, and they distribute the weight of the structure to your foundational supports, while joists bear far less weight and distribute their loads to the beams. Beams are usually thicker and longer, and they have support posts or foundation walls beneath them for support.

It's safe to assume that all exterior walls are load-bearing, or at least have load-bearing characteristics. Some older homes feature porches or bump-outs that don't rest on the home's foundation. However, they still must carry the weight of the roof section they support. Walls containing floor-to-ceiling glass or other non-structural elements must use post and beam configurations to meet load-bearing criteria.

Yes, unresolved damage can decrease property integrity and market value.

The Benton Harbor, 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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