Get matched with top structural engineers in Prescott, MI

Q: How long does a structural assessment typically take?

• <div><p>A few hours for inspection, with a detailed report following in a week.</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: 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: Can a one-story house have a load-bearing wall?

• <div><p>Yes, a one-story house can have a load-bearing wall. The load-bearing walls in a single-story home are usually the exterior walls. If the house has a basement with exposed walls, the arrangement of the beams can help indicate what walls are load-bearing.</p></div>

Q: How thick are LVL beams?

• <div><p>The standard thickness for an LVL beam is between <b>1.75 inches and 7 inches</b>. However, you can order LVL beams in non-standard sizes as well. When you work with a contractor, they can source beams that are the appropriate size for your project for you after assessing your blueprints.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Prescott, MI

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Prescott, 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 Prescott, 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 September 08, 2025

Reviewed in September 2025
we had the whole exterior stained and trim painted. Talon and crew were absolutely fantastic from start to finish. His communication and timeliness was fantastic and went above and beyond to make sure every detail was covered and our expectations were met. we couldn't be happier with the end...
TAGM Painting
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Reviewed in April 2025
Oasis outdoor got the job done! It was no easy task to dig up a few giant oak stumps. Dan the owner and crew had the right equipment for the job. Even went above and beyond to grade the area when he was complete. Thanks again and would recommend
Grand Oasis Outdoor
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Reviewed in January 2025
Excellent work. Great to work with and reasonably priced. I am hoping to have Mike and his team back soon for help with other renovation projects. I highly recommend Mike’s.
MIKES HOME RENOVATIONS LLC
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Reviewed in October 2024
Eric had quite the job fixing my dry wall after a bad dry waller ruined my drywall job. I hired him back to build a platform for me and he did a great job and it was super fun to hang out with him. Definitely.Would hire him and recommend him for any job!
UpNorth Living
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Reviewed in September 2024
Great Job! My exterior is beautiful. I was glad they had a 40-foot ladder because they had to paint from the very top of it. Very neat, beautiful work.
All Star Painting
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Reviewed in August 2024
Excellent work Nick and his crew were professional and went over and above to not damage any property and plants. I highly recommend them. Reasonable rates !
Nick's Tree Service
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Reviewed in August 2023
Brian did an excellent job tearing up my old linoleum, sawing out the damaged area of my floor and installing some laminate planks. He came back two days after the job and caulked around the floor and installed a new toilet and shortened the length of one of our doors. He's a very nice man...
Hunters Remodeling And Repairs
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Reviewed in December 2022
This is the 3rd or 4th project I have had MHRAC do for us and we are very happy with the work they do! We had them rip up carpet and install vinyl plank flooring all through our first floor and they did an amazing job in two days! Their attention to detail is on point! The guys are very friendly...
MHRAC, Inc.
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Reviewed in September 2021
I've been a satisfied customer of Webb Well Drilling for over 40 years, I think they're the best in the business, I wouldn't call anyone else.
R. Webb & Son Well Drilling
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Reviewed in June 2021
Nice job done by the whole crew. They were very nice and are very knowledgeable of trees. Worked well with us and had a lot suggestions that made our place look great. Will hire again
Nick's Tree Service
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Find Structural engineers in Prescott

Robert Cowles PE

5.0(

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Serving Prescott, 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."

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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

A few hours for inspection, with a detailed report following in a week.

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.

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, a one-story house can have a load-bearing wall. The load-bearing walls in a single-story home are usually the exterior walls. If the house has a basement with exposed walls, the arrangement of the beams can help indicate what walls are load-bearing.

The standard thickness for an LVL beam is between 1.75 inches and 7 inches. However, you can order LVL beams in non-standard sizes as well. When you work with a contractor, they can source beams that are the appropriate size for your project for you after assessing your blueprints.

The Prescott, MI homeowners’ guide to structural engineering services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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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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How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Main House Support Beam? [2026 Data]
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Mar 19, 2026Mar 19, 2026
6 Tips on How to Build an Earthquake-Proof House
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