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: Are walls on the top floor load-bearing?

• <div><p>Yes, walls on the top floor can be load-bearing if stacked on the floor&rsquo;s foundation.</p></div>

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: Can termite damage affect home structural value?

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

Q: What is the hardest stage in building a house?

• <div><p>The early stages of building a house are harder than the later stages; laying the foundation and framing the house are two of the most challenging steps. However, it varies for everyone. Some people have difficulty installing HVAC, plumbing, and electricity, while others find it harder to plan the house and secure the necessary permits. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Freeport, MI

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Freeport, 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 Freeport, 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 August 12, 2024

Reviewed in August 2024
Professional concrete work with beautiful results. My family & friends were as impressed as I was. Curb appeal is exceptional!
Tresemer Concrete & Excavating, LLC
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Reviewed in July 2023
As a busy single mom I have plenty to do, and never enough time. Recently I needed a grape vine fence built into the ground. I met with Jeremy to discuss what I wanted done, he gave me a fair estimate, and completed the work much faster and I am sure a better quality structure than I could have...
J. Van Handyman, LLC
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Reviewed in February 2023
NEW Pitched and Flat Roof. Our home was built in 1860 and was in dire need of a new roof, with an active leak. When we were ready to move, they worked us into their busy schedule, right before the Labor Day Holiday weekend 2022. They started with the pitched roof, stripping off not only...
Skyline Exteriors, LLC
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Reviewed in February 2023
Good company and very conscientious. They did a great job. I have hired them on two big projects. They are skilled and were able to remove trees that were around power lines. They are also very considerate to clean up after the work is done. I am very impressed with how well this crew works...
Wittenbach Services, Inc.
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Reviewed in August 2022
Simon Inc did a wonderful job on the windows of our lake house! He also took care of the gutters, which was a huge relief because it’s an A frame and they are super high up. Would definitely recommend this company to everyone.
Simon Inc
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Reviewed in July 2021
Brandon did superior work on the exterior of my home. He was prompt efficient and reasonably priced. I would highly recommend his Company to family and friends!
O'Connor Onsite Services, LLC
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Reviewed in January 2021
Rick and his crew from select homes & construction did a very outstanding job on the drywall project in our basement. He kept me informed from start to finish. Very professional crew. I recommend this company for your home project.
Select Homes & Construction, Inc.
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Reviewed in April 2018
They were very prompt in taking down a tree that had partially fallen and was becoming a danger to structures and power line. Responded very quickly and did a great job taking down the tree safely!
New Growth Tree and Snow Service LLC
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Reviewed in October 2015
Our first experience with Dave Speese and his crew was in late summer 2013. They painted the exterior of our house, a Tudor-style structure with a variety of surfaces and a lot of trim. It had not been painted in about a dozen years and was in rough shape in many areas. We were very impressed by...
Speese Painting Co., LLC
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Reviewed in April 2014
<p>Owner was friendly enough before and during the service, but standards for quality were not established nor applied. The finished concrete surface was uneven, and because there was no stone bed laid, no structural joints put in, and no rebar reinforcement over a lengthy patio area, it cracked...
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Find Structural engineers in Freeport

Robert Cowles PE

5.0(

)

Serving Freeport, 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

Serving Freeport, 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

Yes, walls on the top floor can be load-bearing if stacked on the floor’s foundation.

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.

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)

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

The early stages of building a house are harder than the later stages; laying the foundation and framing the house are two of the most challenging steps. However, it varies for everyone. Some people have difficulty installing HVAC, plumbing, and electricity, while others find it harder to plan the house and secure the necessary permits.

The Freeport, 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

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.
Lyle Hendriks
•
May 5, 2026May 5, 2026
How Much Does Beam Installation Cost [2026 Data]
Beam installation costs are an important consideration if you’re building a home or doing renovations. Learn about average costs and factors in this guide.
Dan Simms
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does Steel I-Beam Installation Cost? [2026 Data]
A new steel I-beam is more durable than a wooden one. Learn what factors can affect steel I-beam installation costs and how to budget for this project.
Dan Simms
•
Apr 9, 2026Apr 9, 2026
What Is a Structural Engineer and Do You Need One?
Learn what a structural engineer is, what they do, when you might need to hire one for your home project, and how much they charge.
Rachel Hoffman
•
May 2, 2026May 2, 2026
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.
Dan Simms
•
Apr 9, 2026Apr 9, 2026
Why You May Need to Hire a Structural Engineer for a Home Inspection
Learn why it might be a good idea to hire a structural engineer for a home inspection in addition to a general home inspector when you’re purchasing a home.