How do you choose a residential structural engineer?

• <div><p>The process of hiring a structural engineer starts by finding reliable professionals in your area and comparing quotes from at least three of them. From there, you can narrow down your selection by asking some leading questions:</p><ul><li><p>Do you have experience working in my specific area?</p></li><li><p>Do you have professional indemnity insurance?</p></li><li><p>What will your structural report cover?</p></li><li><p>Do you charge a flat fee for a structural report or by the hour?</p></li><li><p>How long have you been in business?</p></li><li><p>Do you have a list of customer references?</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Get matched with top structural engineers in Shepherd, MI

Q: Is a structural engineer’s report worth it?

• <div><p>A structural engineer&rsquo;s report is almost always worth it, as it can help you avoid buying or overpaying for a home with structural issues. The most important thing the report does for you is provide peace of mind that you won&rsquo;t have to pay thousands of dollars for structural repairs right after closing on a property. </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 engineers provide solutions for structural problems found during inspections?

• <div><p>Yes, they offer plans for repairs or reinforcements to address issues.</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 Shepherd, MI

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Shepherd, 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 Shepherd, 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 November 26, 2024

Reviewed in November 2024
Jon was professional, courteous, and listed to what my vision was. His work was neat and detailed and he cleaned up after himself. He was fair in his pricing. He built a hunting cabin from the ground up. Framing, siding, steel roof, insulation, windows, doors, sliding door, flooring. Iâ m...
Jon Seelye Services
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Reviewed in March 2024
the hole team from the salesman to the crew all was very professional and friendly. did an outstanding job with the clean up and work they preformed. I would recommend this company to whom is looking for a reputable for you insulation needs.
RetroFoam of Michigan Inc.
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Reviewed in October 2023
The project got done on time. The finished result was beautiful. The men working on the project kept the construction area clean and did not leave any trash behind after the project was completed.
Triple T Masonry
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Reviewed in October 2023
I have hired this company for jobs ranging from clean outs to all sorts of remodeling and landscaping projects. I would recommend Planer Contracting 100%, very satisfied with their work.
Planer Contracting
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Reviewed in February 2023
Steve eases a lot of the stress of home buying with his thorough inspections and knowledge. He is available to answer any questions related to his findings. The report was comprehensive and easy to understand, including pictures and tips for repairs. I wound highly recommend Steve and will be...
4SITE Inspections of Michigan
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Reviewed in December 2022
Very hard working; detail-oriented; My mother has poor vision. They worked hard to give her a visually-contrasted, safety-oriented bathroom!! Great job!
Concrete&Chandeliers, LLC
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Reviewed in December 2022
Anthony built a dock for me. He built is to spec, to code. He went above and beyond, was flexible with me and super professional. The city inspector also commented that â the dock was beautiful and solid, Whoever built it did a great job.â Highly recommend!
America Strong Construction
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Reviewed in May 2022
He has made our boat float again with other alterations. He also welded and fixed our bent clothes line poles like they were new. I highly recommend him for any job.
Dave's Welding Services
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Reviewed in March 2021
Great Job from start to finish! I was working first 2 days and Joseph kept me updated and informed on progress with texts and pics! He ripped out tile, vinyl, repaired subfloor, leveled subfloor and installed vinyl plank, base board and quarter round for nearly 1200 sq ft.....all done in 3...
Advanced Flooring Design
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Reviewed in September 2013
The table arrived with damages; not due to shipping but because it was boxed so poorly. It arrived on a skid with the 3 piece slate not boxed at all. Luckily the damages were cosmetic and not structural so we were able to accept shipment. The company from which we purchased the table compensated...
BILLIARD TABLE RECOVERY SERVICE
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Robert Cowles PE

5.0(

)

Serving Shepherd, 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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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

A structural engineer’s report is almost always worth it, as it can help you avoid buying or overpaying for a home with structural issues. The most important thing the report does for you is provide peace of mind that you won’t have to pay thousands of dollars for structural repairs right after closing on a property.

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.

The process of hiring a structural engineer starts by finding reliable professionals in your area and comparing quotes from at least three of them. From there, you can narrow down your selection by asking some leading questions:

Do you have experience working in my specific area?
Do you have professional indemnity insurance?
What will your structural report cover?
Do you charge a flat fee for a structural report or by the hour?
How long have you been in business?
Do you have a list of customer references?

Yes, they offer plans for repairs or reinforcements to address issues.

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 Shepherd, 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

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.
Alison Kasch
•
Apr 4, 2026Apr 4, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Remove a Load-Bearing Wall? [2026 Data]
Do you have a load-bearing wall standing between you and your projects that you want to remove? Learn about the cost of removing a load-bearing wall.
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.
Rachel Hoffman
•
Apr 4, 2026Apr 4, 2026
Who Can Check if a Wall Is Load-Bearing?
Before removing a wall, make sure it’s not load-bearing. Learn the benefits of hiring a structural engineer to check if a wall is load-bearing.
Rachel Hoffman
•
Mar 6, 2026Mar 6, 2026
Structural Inspection vs. Home Inspection: Which Is Right for You?
Knowing the difference between structural inspections vs. home inspections is easy with this convenient guide. Learn when you might get each one done.
Rachel Hoffman
•
May 21, 2026May 21, 2026
What to Expect From a Structural Engineer Foundation Inspection
Identify potentially serious problems with your foundation with an inspection from a structural engineer.