Get matched with top structural engineers in Pontiac, MI

Q: What’s the difference between an architect and an engineer?

• <div><p>The essential difference between an architect and an engineer is that architects typically focus more on the aesthetic design of buildings, although not without consideration for the structural integrity of the building. Engineers focus more on the structural, technical, and practical aspects of whether and how an architectural design can be built as drawn. You may need to hire both types of professionals if you&rsquo;re designing and building a new home.</p></div>

Q: Do I need a structural engineer or an architect?

• <div><p>Whether you&rsquo;re building a new home or building an extension on your existing property, you will likely need both a structural engineer and an architect. A structural engineer will determine what loads your foundation and framing can safely handle, and an architect will draw plans according to those structural calculations to simplify the building process. You can start by contacting a structural engineer near you, as many work alongside architects and can get all of the prep work done at once.</p></div>

Q: Can I do my own structural calculations?

• <div><p>No, it&rsquo;s not legal for unlicensed individuals to conduct structural calculations for buildings or building repairs. Not only do licensing requirements prevent DIYers from tackling this project, but mistakes can also be extremely dangerous and put your property and anyone inside or near it at risk of severe injury or even death. You should always hire a licensed and certified local structural engineer to make structural calculations.</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: Will a bank finance a house with foundation problems?

• <div><p>It depends on the bank and the extent of the issue. Some banks will lend against homes with minor foundation damage, but most won&rsquo;t if the issue is structural since the home acts as collateral for the mortgage. Banks that offer renovation loans might still finance a home with structural problems. More minor issues like settling cracks and intermittent problems with humidity are unlikely to stop a bank from financing. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Pontiac, MI

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Pontiac, 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 Pontiac, 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 02, 2025

Reviewed in February 2025
Despite structural challenges Cory delivered exactly what he said he would. I could not be happier with his quality of work. He went above and beyond at a great price! I will call him again!
Collier Construction
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Reviewed in May 2022
Excellent service and knowledge of my structural engineering request. Just what I was looking for.!
SJW Engineering LLC
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Reviewed in January 2022
The idea of doing a major exterior renovation on our home seemed overwhelming. Until we met Peter and got the project underway. From start to finish, working with him, Jay & their Team was a positive experience! They were always patient, professional and gave us sound advice, on material...
SA CONSTRUCTION
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Reviewed in June 2019
Quality service! The report was thorough and concise. There was no doubt left for the home buyer in regards to the structural integrity of the property in question. Definitely recommend. Very flexible with scheduling as well.
Leave It To Weaver Home Inspection
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Reviewed in March 2018
Great! The team that came out was very professional and compassionate to our needs. The work they did was not only structurally sound, but beautiful. They taught us a lot about what it takes to build brick and mortar structures to last a life time. There was never a "hard sell", which we find...
Design One Landscape Services
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Reviewed in August 2016
<p>It went very well! </p> <p>My house (and the roof of my house) uses Structural Insulated Panels (SIP) for superb energy efficiency. After 20 years a small leak in the roof developed and caused a wet wood area that attracted carpenter ants. This effected only the top layer of the SIP.</p> ...
Bloomfield Construction Co
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Reviewed in June 2016
My first estimate said I needed helical piers and near $20,000. I hired a structural engineer & he said no piers needed and spelled out in detail how to repair the problem. Jay from basement cracks & Leaks was the one I chose after a few estimates. They were on time, completed the work early,...
Basement Cracks & Leaks Metro Inc
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Reviewed in October 2014
We used Budget Basements to completely remodel our basement. Overall, it was a great experience and we would definitely use them again. The overall square footage of our renovated space was about 1500. <br /> We contacted Phil, the owner, through the Angie's List website in early June about a...
Budget Basements
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Reviewed in October 2014
<p>We were so fortunate that Tom Buscemi agreed to take on the renovation of our 1910 lakeside house in Lake Orion, MI. He has our highest recommendation as a congenial, honest, and competent builder. Tom has a deep appreciation for an older structure and an excellent eye for its...
Thomas Robert Construction LLC
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Reviewed in July 2014
I called Ed one day, and told him of my vision for my living room. He came out and surveyed the living room and attic structure. He felt confident that he could achieve my request to remove a load bearing header and post. He took some dimensions, and said he would run it by a structural...
Edward F Deering Design Consultant for Functional Spaces
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Find Structural engineers in Pontiac

SJW Engineering LLC

4.7(

)

Serving Pontiac, MI and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2010

Emergency services offered

Small jobs welcome

"Contacted SJW to do a structural analysis on a cantilever balcony I was adding to my home. The analysis was required by the Livingston County Building Commission. Even though I was just a homeowner and probably will never require a structural engineer in the future, Steven treated me with respect. We spent a lot of time on the phone going over my prints and options to achieve my goal. Steven was very informative and knowledgeable. What a great experience and people to work withâ ¦â ¦ Thanks Steven!!!!!!"

Response time2 days

14 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by92%of homeowners

Serving Pontiac, MI and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2019

Small jobs welcome

Credit card accepted

"I canâ t recommend Ali enough! A neighbor recommended Ali after another structural engineer was five weeks late getting us our plan. I called Ali on a Friday and he told me he could come out on Saturday to measure and have the plans ready by Monday. He was positive, responsive, and went above and beyond answering all of my questions! It was such a great experience working with him."

Response time1 day

Recommended by57%of homeowners

Serving Pontiac, 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

Serving Pontiac, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2016

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

"After filling out form on home advisor, I was contacted the next day to schedule a visit. Engineer was very kind and gave great feedback."

Response time1 day

Recommended by95%of homeowners

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Mosley's Services, Inc.

3.8(

111

)

Serving Pontiac, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 1994

"Mr Mosley was very personable. He is very knowledgeable in his field and explained in detail what was needed to make my structure safe. He provided a drawing with specifications and a certified statement of his work within a matter of days."

Recommended by73%of homeowners

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AAPEX Home Inspection Services

4.6(

)

Serving Pontiac, 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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JHB Group

New to Angi

Serving Pontiac, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2006

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We are a reputable structural engineering consulting company. We are locally owned and operated and service the entire Ann Arbor & Detroit area for past 20 + years. We specialize in structural and soil engineer for all sorts of projects commercial and residential. We take pride in our ability to exceed expectations in all aspects of business. We look forward to building long-term relationships with our clients, and guarantee your satisfaction. \n

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TCI Engineers

New to Angi

Serving Pontiac, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 1993

Free estimates

TCI Engineers has been in business since 1993, with over 25 years of experience! We specialize in all your Structural Engineer needs, and guarantee you a job well done! All the way from commercial to residential, we are your guys! We strive to exceed the clients expectations each and every time, and get the job done the way they want it. We work in a timely fashion and always pay attention to detail. Proudly serving Detroit & surrounding areas. Free estimates. Call today!\n

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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

The essential difference between an architect and an engineer is that architects typically focus more on the aesthetic design of buildings, although not without consideration for the structural integrity of the building. Engineers focus more on the structural, technical, and practical aspects of whether and how an architectural design can be built as drawn. You may need to hire both types of professionals if you’re designing and building a new home.

Whether you’re building a new home or building an extension on your existing property, you will likely need both a structural engineer and an architect. A structural engineer will determine what loads your foundation and framing can safely handle, and an architect will draw plans according to those structural calculations to simplify the building process. You can start by contacting a structural engineer near you, as many work alongside architects and can get all of the prep work done at once.

No, it’s not legal for unlicensed individuals to conduct structural calculations for buildings or building repairs. Not only do licensing requirements prevent DIYers from tackling this project, but mistakes can also be extremely dangerous and put your property and anyone inside or near it at risk of severe injury or even death. You should always hire a licensed and certified local structural engineer to make structural calculations.

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.

It depends on the bank and the extent of the issue. Some banks will lend against homes with minor foundation damage, but most won’t if the issue is structural since the home acts as collateral for the mortgage. Banks that offer renovation loans might still finance a home with structural problems. More minor issues like settling cracks and intermittent problems with humidity are unlikely to stop a bank from financing.

The Pontiac, 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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