Get matched with top structural engineers in Lawrence, MI

Q: What inspections do structural engineers do?

• <div><p>Structural engineers can perform various inspections on different structures in your home. These inspections usually include a report detailing the engineer&rsquo;s findings and recommendations for repairs so you can determine your next course of action for repairs, replacements, or new builds. Some of the most common structural engineering reports include:</p><ul><li><p>Full home inspection: $350&ndash;$1,000</p></li><li><p>Foundation: $300&ndash;$800</p></li><li><p>Load-bearing walls: $300&ndash;$1,000</p></li><li><p>Roof: $150&ndash;$600</p></li><li><p>Chimney: $200&ndash;$500</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Q: Is precast concrete reinforced?

• <div><p>Precast concrete can be reinforced with rebar, wire mesh, or other materials to improve its strength and add stability. Precast concrete for large construction projects is often pre-stressed as well for greater structural strength. Reinforced concrete is durable and strong, making it an ideal choice for many construction projects.</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: How long does it take for water to cause structural damage?

• <div><p>Water can seep into porous materials like wood beams, floor joists, and roof rafters within minutes, but they&rsquo;ll need to see prolonged exposure before you have structural damage. Mold can start growing within 24 hours, and mold can eat away at the structural components over time. Wood rot is more of a concern, though. Wet and dry rot are fungal infections that set in in moist conditions and rapidly deteriorate wood, causing major structural damage within just a few months in some cases.</p></div>

Q: How high can you build a single brick wall?

• <div><p>A freestanding brick wall that's only one brick thick can usually stand six to eight feet high. If you need a higher wall, it should be at least two bricks thick for adequate stability, and it might require a footing to support the added weight. Additionally, some areas have regulations and codes dictating how high a brick wall can be, so check with local code enforcers to ensure your proposed wall complies with any regulations.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Lawrence, MI

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Lawrence, 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 Lawrence, 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 October 31, 2024

Reviewed in October 2024
We hired FSM Grand Rapids to spray foam insulate our crawl space and install a dehumidifier to help with the dampness in that area. All four workers, Jalen, DeShawn, Reggie, and Jamont were very friendly, helpful, respectful and professional. The crawl space looks so much better than it did...
Groundworks
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Reviewed in May 2024
From start to finish the company was good to work with. The construction crew, especially Dylan kept in touch during construction to get questions answered and complete the work as I wanted it done. The deck looks great! Would definitely recommend Green Shield.
Green Shield Home, LLC
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Reviewed in June 2023
Great job! Reasonably priced, and fast turn around! He welded a lawn furniture set that we thought was trashâ ¦Thank You for saving it!
Rebel Fabrication, LLC
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Reviewed in April 2021
Adam and his crew did a wonderful job at removing trees and limbs hanging over our house. They stacked the wood and chipped all of the branches. I highly recommend this company!
All Around Trees
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Reviewed in August 2018
Rob removed a (large) gas fireplace (including piping and fake chimney structure) in our living room and put in a sliding glass door. He also built a 16X16 deck off the door. He is dependable and did an excellent job. The door and deck look like they were always there. Rob has done work for us...
Rob Seth Construction
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Reviewed in February 2018
During the project, Turnkey identified some significant structural damage which they were able to correct. They proved to be a much better choice than just a company who focuses solely on siding as this repair was very challenging. Throughout the project, they were very professional and provided...
Turnkey Builders LLC
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Reviewed in October 2017
Great! Our hardwood floors had not been refinished in 17 years. Part of the floor was engineered wood and very thin and part was solid oak. The sanding needed to be very prudent on the engineered side of the floor. In addition, the sanding erased a stained pattern from the surface of the...
C.N.B HARDWOOD FLOORS
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Reviewed in November 2016
My wife and I worked with Jon on an extensive renovation/remodel, and addition. A large, complicated project to say the least. Jon stuck with us through many, many, revisions... The entire time being patient and professional. Jon's expertise and knowledge in structure and engineering helped...
Schultz Architecture
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Reviewed in May 2015
<p>I had nine large oak trees that were becoming hazardous to my house and pole barn. Five which were very close to the two structures (within eight feet). Some of these trees were almost three feet in diameter. (two were larger). I had three other estimates and their estimate was the...
J & S Tree Removal Inc
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Reviewed in May 2013
Dan from Molnar Construction's price was reasonable and the house was built in the 1940s so he was reasonable about upcharges in terms of finding rotten floor joists or whatever that had to be replaced that weren't part of the original quote. He's a good listener and was able to come up with...
Molnar Construction
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Find Structural engineers in Lawrence

Robert Cowles PE

5.0(

)

Serving Lawrence, 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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Foundation Specialist, LLC

4.2(

)

Serving Lawrence, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Great. From the project manager - Bryan Foster - to the crew chief - Shane - I don't think I could have been in better hands. Professional, knowledgeable, polite, hard working, on time, no surprises, and they left the place cleaner than it was before they came!! I highly recommend this company and the individuals I mentioned."

Recommended by85%of homeowners

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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

Structural engineers can perform various inspections on different structures in your home. These inspections usually include a report detailing the engineer’s findings and recommendations for repairs so you can determine your next course of action for repairs, replacements, or new builds. Some of the most common structural engineering reports include:

Full home inspection: $350–$1,000
Foundation: $300–$800
Load-bearing walls: $300–$1,000
Roof: $150–$600
Chimney: $200–$500

Precast concrete can be reinforced with rebar, wire mesh, or other materials to improve its strength and add stability. Precast concrete for large construction projects is often pre-stressed as well for greater structural strength. Reinforced concrete is durable and strong, making it an ideal choice for many construction projects.

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.

Water can seep into porous materials like wood beams, floor joists, and roof rafters within minutes, but they’ll need to see prolonged exposure before you have structural damage. Mold can start growing within 24 hours, and mold can eat away at the structural components over time. Wood rot is more of a concern, though. Wet and dry rot are fungal infections that set in in moist conditions and rapidly deteriorate wood, causing major structural damage within just a few months in some cases.

A freestanding brick wall that's only one brick thick can usually stand six to eight feet high. If you need a higher wall, it should be at least two bricks thick for adequate stability, and it might require a footing to support the added weight. Additionally, some areas have regulations and codes dictating how high a brick wall can be, so check with local code enforcers to ensure your proposed wall complies with any regulations.

The Lawrence, 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
•
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.
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.
Rachel Hoffman
•
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.
Kate Fann
•
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.
Rachel Hoffman
•
Apr 5, 2026Apr 5, 2026
Structural Engineer vs. Architect: Their Differences and Why You Need Both
Do you have an upcoming construction project and aren’t sure whether hiring a structural engineer vs an architect is better? Find out here.