Are foundation walls load-bearing?

• <div><p>Yes. Foundation walls are always load-bearing.</p></div>

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Q: Do structural engineers draw house plans?

• <div><p>Structural engineers draw structural plans, which include detailed drawings of the structural components of a home only. Complete house plans will require additional work from an architect or draftsperson, whose drawings will take the structural drawings into account. They&rsquo;ll also include more details about the finishing materials and layout of a home, including everything from roofing and flooring materials to the position of furniture, light fixtures, switches, and plumbing fixtures.</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: 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: What types of projects require a structural engineer’s expertise?

• <div><p>Structural engineers are necessary for projects involving alterations to load-bearing structures, foundation work, and compliance with safety standards. This includes home expansions, retaining walls, and significant repairs that impact a property's integrity.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Burlington Township, MI

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Burlington Township, 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 Burlington Township, 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 February 23, 2025

Reviewed in February 2025
I had NVAS Construction Inc remodel my kitchen, and they did an outstanding job. The attention to detail and commitment to quality was evident in every aspect of the project.
NVAS Construction
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Reviewed in February 2025
WR Builders Inc. recently completed a major renovation on my house, and I am thrilled with the outcome. From the initial consultation to the final walk-through, their team was professional and responsive. They listened to my ideas and offered suggestions that greatly improved the design. The...
WR Builders, Inc
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Reviewed in August 2024
We are thrilled with our new metal roof from Affordable Building Concepts. Paul cane out immediately and wrote up a contract. Paul and his crew got the project completed asap. Their craftsmanship was top notch. Their professionalism and hard work ethic were beyond impressive. If you want top...
Affordable Building Concepts
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Reviewed in June 2024
These guys are fast, accurate and cleaned up after themselves The garage is solid and the craftsmanship is super. Went above and beyond with the cement work as well. Can’t say enough good things about them.
Fair and Square Construction
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Reviewed in September 2023
I loved having this crew work for me around my home in Marshall. I have an old historical home which takes delicate and strategic work. I was very impressed. The owner went as far as building me a railing for my stair case as I struggle going up and down for only the cost of lumber. Very kind,...
ALB's Home Improvements
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Reviewed in March 2023
Owner Lied To, Stole From, & Bullied Sick Individual on Disability Benefits Budget. Would Advise To Take Business Elsewhere: Rick charged me for services promised but not rendered. $1500 in all for mold testing and inspection (after they deducted $300 because I pressed for confirmation of...
Midwest Enviro Solutions
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Reviewed in November 2022
Got the job done quick and professionally, really nice guys. Installed a perfectly level gravel foundation for my new garden shed.
Wise Choice Lawn Care
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Reviewed in April 2022
Didnâ t cut corners on the jobs asked for my input on how I wanted the base boards cut what direction I wanted the planks to go.
Magic Interiors, LLC
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Reviewed in December 2017
We recently bought our first home. A huge fixer upper! The roof was the first on our list to get done. We got a few different quotes. Bay to Bay was the most competitive and Jerold was very polite, professional, and knowledgeable. Being 120yr old home, they ran into many structural issues,...
Bay to Bay Building Concepts
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Reviewed in September 2016
My semi-flat roof was a disaster. It was structurally compromised and leaking. Mr. Livingston rebuilt the structure, re-decked the roof and installed torch down roofing in a very professional manner for a very reasonable price. I would recommend him to anyone.
Quality Construction
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Find Structural engineers in Burlington Township

Robert Cowles PE

5.0(

)

Serving Burlington Township, 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

11 neighbors recently requested a quote

Serving Burlington Township, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2018

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"I was very pleased with their project and how they did it. They got it done in 2 days. They did a good job on keeping on the timeline that I needed. Easy to reach them if I have question."

+101

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

Structural engineers draw structural plans, which include detailed drawings of the structural components of a home only. Complete house plans will require additional work from an architect or draftsperson, whose drawings will take the structural drawings into account. They’ll also include more details about the finishing materials and layout of a home, including everything from roofing and flooring materials to the position of furniture, light fixtures, switches, and plumbing fixtures.

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.

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.

Yes. Foundation walls are always load-bearing.

Structural engineers are necessary for projects involving alterations to load-bearing structures, foundation work, and compliance with safety standards. This includes home expansions, retaining walls, and significant repairs that impact a property's integrity.

The Burlington Township, MI homeowners’ guide to structural engineering services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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