Get matched with top structural engineers in Greenbush, MI

Q: Why should I add structural support for my house after I raise it?

• <div><p>If your home's foundation was damaged due to shifting soil, the same problem will reoccur unless you stabilize the structure by adding posts in the bedrock.</p></div>

Q: How do contractors cut a doorway in a concrete block wall?

• <div><p>First, most contractors will have a structural engineer create a report and plan for your project to ensure it&rsquo;s safe to cut into the load-bearing wall. The contractor will then excavate around the wall, if necessary, measure the opening&mdash;allowing for additional space to fit and level the door, and then cut the doorway out. They will likely install a steel lintel as a header over the door for support. Once the doorway is cut out, they&rsquo;ll demolish the concrete using sledge hammers and masonry chisels, clean up the surrounding concrete, and seal around the door with masonry mortar. </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 ceiling joists load-bearing?

• <div><p>Yes, ceiling joists are typically load-bearing. However, their primary function is to support the weight of the ceiling and loads applied to it, like lighting fixtures and ceiling fans. They can also help support the roof, especially if they&rsquo;re part of truss systems. Remember, the load-bearing capacity of ceiling joists depends on the material, size, and space between them. </p></div>

Q: For which type of foundation cracking should a structural engineer be recommended?

• <div><p>The <a href="https://www.nahb.org/">National Association of Home Builders</a> requires repair of any foundation crack of more than one quarter of an inch, although local regulations may vary. In general, any visible crack that is growing in size, allowing water through, or that you have just noticed, is a good reason to call a structural engineer. Cracks can be a sign of a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/sinking-foundation.htm">sinking foundation</a>, so an inspection is a good idea for your peace of mind.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Greenbush, MI

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Greenbush, 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 Greenbush, 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 25, 2026

Reviewed in February 2026
Jeff was easy to work with and very attentive to detail. We have an old log cabin and wanted our addition to look like it belonged. Jeff understood this and accomplished this. I would highly recommend him for any contracting job!
Jeff Miller Builders
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Reviewed in January 2026
Drew is a great guy with a wide range of skills. He did some electrical work on outdoor plugins, put steel siding on an old shed, and did tuckpointing and surface sealing on a huge old barn built in the 40s, built a new livestock door for the barn, and installed a storm door. We've got plans for...
Northern Michigan Handyman
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Reviewed in June 2025
When we hired Bathworks to remove the existing shower and install a new shower that had a floor pan that was lower to the ground and a shower that was alot bigger, we knew that we were hiring the best professionals we could find. The new walls for the shower extend up over 6 feet. They also...
Bathworks of Michigan, LLC
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Reviewed in June 2024
My dad is putting a large addition on his new house and has consulted Giles multiple times for assistance with the plumbing for both it and the old house. He is always very responsive, thorough and professional. Iâ ve also hired them for work in my own home and have had the same experience. I...
Go with the Flo Plumbing
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Reviewed in October 2023
We were Super impressed with the work they did on our cabin. They installed soffit, Tyvek, siding and fascia! It looks like a brand new cabin. Very easy to work with and humble owner. Keith is amazing!
Horizons Remodeling
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Reviewed in March 2023
Outstanding communication from beginning to closeout. From initial contact with John Miller through final closeout with Ebenezer Adufro. Coordination with insurance and clear detailed design. Roofing crew were quick, efficient and safe resulting in a good looking roof. Immediately after...
SmartRoof
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Reviewed in October 2022
He's very, very skilled. He did a cove and some ceramic tile and it's perfect. He really knows how to do that plaster work! He's also done gutters for me.
Shores kitchen and Bath
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Reviewed in February 2022
I have friends ask for home inspection service providers quite often. I have always recommended Tony Dawson as he is very professional and does a detailed inspection of the structure. I have never heard a complaint from anyone on the work he does
Dawson Services, LLC
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Reviewed in August 2021
They did a great job. House and garage was soft washed, roofs treated and washed, windows also. Decks power washed and sealed. Little paint came off the house. Not their fault, but they offered to take a paint chip, get the paint and come back to touch it up. Would hire again.
ThunderBay Pressure Washing & More
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Reviewed in May 2021
Excellent - performed all tasks professionally and timely. We will be calling Lamrock for all of our electrical needs. Thank you, The Burch's
Lamrock Heating & Electrical
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Find Structural engineers in Greenbush

Robert Cowles PE

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Serving Greenbush, MI and surrounding areas

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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

If your home's foundation was damaged due to shifting soil, the same problem will reoccur unless you stabilize the structure by adding posts in the bedrock.

First, most contractors will have a structural engineer create a report and plan for your project to ensure it’s safe to cut into the load-bearing wall. The contractor will then excavate around the wall, if necessary, measure the opening—allowing for additional space to fit and level the door, and then cut the doorway out. They will likely install a steel lintel as a header over the door for support. Once the doorway is cut out, they’ll demolish the concrete using sledge hammers and masonry chisels, clean up the surrounding concrete, and seal around the door with masonry mortar.

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.

Yes, ceiling joists are typically load-bearing. However, their primary function is to support the weight of the ceiling and loads applied to it, like lighting fixtures and ceiling fans. They can also help support the roof, especially if they’re part of truss systems. Remember, the load-bearing capacity of ceiling joists depends on the material, size, and space between them.

The National Association of Home Builders requires repair of any foundation crack of more than one quarter of an inch, although local regulations may vary. In general, any visible crack that is growing in size, allowing water through, or that you have just noticed, is a good reason to call a structural engineer. Cracks can be a sign of a sinking foundation, so an inspection is a good idea for your peace of mind.

The Greenbush, 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

Haley Nothstein
•
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.
Dan Simms
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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.
Alison Kasch
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Apr 4, 2026Apr 4, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Remove a Load-Bearing Wall? [2026 Data]
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May 3, 2026May 3, 2026
10 Signs of Structural Damage in Your Home
Keeping your home safe and structurally sound should be a top priority. Learn to recognize the signs of structural damage you should never ignore.
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May 5, 2026May 5, 2026
How to Hire a Structural Engineer: Complete Guide
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Mar 19, 2026Mar 19, 2026
Who Do You Hire to Knock Down a Wall?
Looking to open up your living space and need to remove a wall? Learn who to hire to knock down a wall, whether it's load-bearing or non-load-bearing.