Get matched with top structural engineers in Jenison, MI

Q: Why do retaining walls lean?

• <div><p>Failure to compact the soil during construction is the most common cause of leaning retaining walls. In addition, poor drainage can lead to excessive water pressure behind a retaining wall, pushing against it until it begins to move forward away from the soil it is holding back.</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: 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: Can I cut or drill LVL beams?

• <div><p>It is not recommended to cut or drill into LVL (laminated veneer lumber) beams. As major structural components of a home, their composite structure can be compromised by alterations, which can weaken them and lead to cracking over time. If you must make modifications to an LVL beam, it is crucial to consult a structural engineer or general contractor first. A professional can advise on whether it's safe and provide specifics on the appropriate bit size, depth, and directionality for any necessary drilling.</p></div>

Q: Are dormers load-bearing?

• <div><p>Dormers must be able to bear the load of their own construction and the added window. The style of the dormer, however, will determine where the weight loads onto your home's structure. A gable dormer bears the weight on the side walls whereas a shed dormer bears it on the front walls.</p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your structural engineering project in Jenison, MI?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Jenison, MI

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Jenison, 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 Jenison, 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 June 05, 2022

Reviewed in June 2022
Had a great experience. They discovered some structural issues but did not charge anything extra to fix them, we are very pleased.
Green Shield Home, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2021
After 3 other estimates, Mike from Green Built came out to look at project. Along with total roof replacement there were also some structural issues with a couple of soffit areas. We were also interested in adding some metal roofing to give our house an updated feature. Mike is expertise in all...
Green Built Roofing, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in June 2019
Anderson Builders out of Sparta, MI does not have a clue about what they are doing. The owner does not want to do it the way you want it done; he does it his way. He had six code violations on his concrete work, and according to my engineer, there were many more things that the city did not...
ROGER A ANDERSON BUILDERS
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2019
Kevin was very professional and performed some additional research on our behalf regarding some structural questions we had.
Brigade Home Inspection Services, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2017
We are a rather handy couple and have completed a lot of home improvement projects ourselves, but when it came to our roof we knew we needed a professional. We called a few companies for estimates. Larry came out and took a look at our roof and was very thorough. He offered us lots of...
Avalon Roofing and Exteriors
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2017
From start to finish, the Conrad Consulting staff were attentive and professional in all of our contacts. They showed up when they promised, and worked with us as we made some minor changes. Imad and Jennifer did an outstanding job of providing the initial information on materials and...
Conrad Consulting & Remodeling, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2015
<p>I spoke with Larry Sidebotham at the Grand Rapids Home and Garden Show and signed up for a free estimate. In about a week, I was contacted by Avalon. I invited them in and we discussed the steps they'd go through and showed examples of the new roofing materials as well as the Weather...
Avalon Roofing and Exteriors
Request a quote
Reviewed in April 2014
Engineer was nice and knowledgeable. They came out the next day and was able to fix my unit for a fair cost.
Grapids Home Services
Request a quote

Find Structural engineers in Jenison

Robert Cowles PE

5.0(

)

Serving Jenison, 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

Request Quote

Foundation Specialist, LLC

4.2(

)

Serving Jenison, 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

Request Quote

Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

Failure to compact the soil during construction is the most common cause of leaning retaining walls. In addition, poor drainage can lead to excessive water pressure behind a retaining wall, pushing against it until it begins to move forward away from the soil it is holding back.

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.

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.

It is not recommended to cut or drill into LVL (laminated veneer lumber) beams. As major structural components of a home, their composite structure can be compromised by alterations, which can weaken them and lead to cracking over time. If you must make modifications to an LVL beam, it is crucial to consult a structural engineer or general contractor first. A professional can advise on whether it's safe and provide specifics on the appropriate bit size, depth, and directionality for any necessary drilling.

Dormers must be able to bear the load of their own construction and the added window. The style of the dormer, however, will determine where the weight loads onto your home's structure. A gable dormer bears the weight on the side walls whereas a shed dormer bears it on the front walls.

The Jenison, 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.
Timothy Moore
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Install an LVL Beam? [2026 Data]
Looking to remove load-bearing walls and vertical supports to open up your living space? Learn about what affects the cost to install an LVL beam.
Dan Simms
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does a Structural Engineer Cost to Hire? [2026 Data]
The cost of a structural engineer is easily justifiable given the value they bring to the table. Use this guide to see what hiring your professional will total.
Em Norton
•
Apr 10, 2026Apr 10, 2026
Everything to Know About LVL Beams
What is an LVL beam? Read about LVL beams to determine if this material is safe and suitable for your project.
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.
Em Norton
•
May 5, 2026May 5, 2026
How to Hire a Structural Engineer: Complete Guide
It can be hard to choose the right pro for any job, but it matters. Learn how to hire a structural engineer who'll get the job done right from start to finish.