Get matched with top structural engineers in Lapeer, MI

Q: If you do the work yourself, how can you be sure your home is still structurally sound?

• <div><p>If you intend to do the majority of the work yourself, you can <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-architect-cost.htm">pay to hire an architect</a> or a structural engineer to ensure your home remains structurally sound. They can help with the planning to make sure everything is up to code and safe for your family. On the other hand, if you&rsquo;re not sure your home will be completely safe when you&rsquo;ve completed the project, let a pro do the job.</p></div>

Q: How can you tell if a crack is structural?

• <div><p>Foundation cracks that are 1/8 inch wide or less, aren&rsquo;t uneven across the gap, and don&rsquo;t continue widening over time are usually just normal settling cracks and don&rsquo;t suggest structural issues. Horizontal cracks and stair-step cracks on foundation walls, any cracks that continue widening, are wider than 1/8 inch, or where one side juts out beyond the other, are often indicative of structural damage.</p></div>

Q: How can I tell if a home I purchased in an earthquake zone is bolted to the foundation?

• <div><p>Generally, you can tell if a home is bolted to the foundation by checking the foundation for plates. If you see that your foundational plates connect to wood or bolts protruding from them, this means that you have a bolted foundation. However, it's always wise to bring a home inspector in to confirm if your foundation is secure.</p></div>

Q: What are the signs of structural damage?

• <div><p><a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/signs-of-structural-damage.htm">Signs of structural damage</a> include foundation cracks, roof leaks, bouncy floors, crumbling concrete, and cracked or leaning chimneys. Structural damage can make itself apparent in various ways, and sometimes, there may not be obvious signs. Inspect your foundation and roof annually to stay ahead of potentially serious structural problems. </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>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Lapeer, MI

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Lapeer, 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 Lapeer, 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 06, 2025

Reviewed in May 2025
Cody came early in the morning on a Sunday as requested by me and removed 2 couches from my living room. Loaded them up and also took old 12 volt batteries and scrap engines taking up useable space in my shed. Super friendly and fair pricing. He worked quick and efficiently, 10/10 would highly...
Thompson's Junk Removal LLC
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Reviewed in April 2024
Highly Recommend!! They were absolutely professional, very knowledgeable and very thorough. They were referred to me and were willing to accept completing an engineered wood siding job that was abandoned by not one but two other contractors who were not skilled with this product (though...
Blue Lakes Professional Construction, LLC
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Reviewed in March 2024
The job went great, Bob Brunell was fantastic to work with. He coordinated with two contractors and kept me informed about every detail as the project progressed. I would highly recommend Bob Brunell and his team to anyone in need of professional construction.
Brunell Construction LLC
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Reviewed in June 2023
Ben and this team were friendly and professional. They answered my questions during the remodeling process. My family, friends and neighbors commented how nice the house looks. I am very happy with their workmanship. I will use Hyatt Construction Company for future remodeling projects.
Hyatt Construction Co
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Reviewed in November 2021
Doug and his team did a beautiful job on our patio. From the very first phone call to the design, to the last step he was honest, courteous and a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend Moors Masonry.
Doug Moors
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Reviewed in December 2020
I hired Mark and Nate to repair a Fascia board on one side of home I just purchased recently. There was another area in rear of home/Roof that needed replaced as well after furthering looking into roof area. Mark and Nate completed the job and also some other big projects on the home ( Detached...
3 Marks Remodeling
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Reviewed in September 2019
HomePro USA came in, removed our existing tub and surround, and replaced it with a gorgeous shower stall with glass doors and a seat. The walls and seat are made of engineered stone, as is the floor) and it is gorgeous. We've only had it for a few weeks, but it seems to stay clean. HomePro...
Home Pro USA
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Reviewed in October 2017
Everyone we had interactions with were outstanding! They went above and beyond to accommodate our needs. The guys that did the job were true craftsmen showing pride in their work. A special thanks to the owner Tony for spending several hours after a full day to correct a structural problem due...
SureGuard Roofing & Maintenance
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Reviewed in August 2015
I hired a structural engineer to access my homes foundation problem. He indicated that helical piers might be necessary. This company indicated by phone they were not interested in helping me. They also said they charge for estimates. <br />
BRUCE DONOVAN CONSTRUCTION, INC.
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Reviewed in December 2012
Randy has been very nice and seemed to have done plenty of drywall jobs in the past according to his statements. He came out to look at the job site and give us an estimate. His price was fair, the job was big and not easy. We have a walk out basement that needed a structural beam and after two...
Right Choice Remodeling
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Find Structural engineers in Lapeer

SJW Engineering LLC

4.7(

)

Serving Lapeer, MI and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2010

Emergency services offered

Small jobs welcome

"Excellent service and knowledge of my structural engineering request. Just what I was looking for.!"

Response time2 days

14 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by92%of homeowners

Serving Lapeer, 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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AAPEX Home Inspection Services

4.6(

)

Serving Lapeer, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"It went great! This was my first experience with a home inspection. Bob was so thorough and answered every question I had. Bob made the process smooth and easy. I would definitely refer him to my family and friends."

Recommended by80%of homeowners

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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

If you intend to do the majority of the work yourself, you can pay to hire an architect or a structural engineer to ensure your home remains structurally sound. They can help with the planning to make sure everything is up to code and safe for your family. On the other hand, if you’re not sure your home will be completely safe when you’ve completed the project, let a pro do the job.

Foundation cracks that are 1/8 inch wide or less, aren’t uneven across the gap, and don’t continue widening over time are usually just normal settling cracks and don’t suggest structural issues. Horizontal cracks and stair-step cracks on foundation walls, any cracks that continue widening, are wider than 1/8 inch, or where one side juts out beyond the other, are often indicative of structural damage.

Generally, you can tell if a home is bolted to the foundation by checking the foundation for plates. If you see that your foundational plates connect to wood or bolts protruding from them, this means that you have a bolted foundation. However, it's always wise to bring a home inspector in to confirm if your foundation is secure.

Signs of structural damage include foundation cracks, roof leaks, bouncy floors, crumbling concrete, and cracked or leaning chimneys. Structural damage can make itself apparent in various ways, and sometimes, there may not be obvious signs. Inspect your foundation and roof annually to stay ahead of potentially serious structural problems.

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.

The Lapeer, 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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