Why should I pick steel for my new support beam?

• <div><p>You should pick steel for your new support beam for a few reasons. While steel is more expensive than other materials, such as laminated veneer lumber or glulam, it offers the following benefits:</p><ul><li><p>Fire-resistant</p></li><li><p>Unaffected by pests</p></li><li><p>Longer-lasting</p></li><li><p>Stronger against water damage (when galvanized against rust)</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

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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: Why should I add structural support for my house after I raise it?

• <div><p>If your home's foundation was damaged due to shifting soil, the same problem will reoccur unless you stabilize the structure by adding posts in the bedrock.</p></div>

Q: What is the typical process architects follow from concept to completion?

• <div><p>The process involves initial consultation, concept development, detailed planning, regulatory approvals, and integration of contractor work for project execution.</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>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Standish, MI

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Standish, 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 Standish, 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 March 19, 2026

Reviewed in March 2026
Very professional, extremely helpful. The door was done so fast and it looked fantastic! We love our new door! Great lakes doors and more is great! We use them for all our residential and commercial doors!
Great Lakes Doors N' More LLC
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Reviewed in December 2025
Some of the work I needed done was painting of 3 exterior entry doors, but the weather wasn't feasible 2 do in November. Those would need 2 be done next year in warmer weather. He did get the 12' of trim that needed 2 be replaced completed. The door he made out plywood 2 block off the upstairs...
Kirtley Drywall
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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 January 2025
Very dependable company! Great work ethic and communication. Very reasonably priced and excellent finish product. Wouldn?t recommend anyone else!
MIKES HOME RENOVATIONS LLC
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Reviewed in January 2024
Gene does excellent work! Very friendly, very professional and an all-around good guy. Thank you for your excellent craftsmanship. In both my home and my momâ s home. I definitely will contact you for future projects.
GAH Property Services, LLC
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Reviewed in December 2023
Andy is very conscientious and strives to ensure that work is completed on time with minimal mess and disruption. It is hard to find a young person with such a wonderful work ethic. I would highly recommend Nordic for Plumbing, carpentry or any other handiwork.
Nordic Plumbing
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Reviewed in February 2023
Parker electrical was committed to getting our work done on schedule. They have fair prices and paid attention to detail. I would recommend them for all your electrical needs.
Parker electric
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Reviewed in August 2022
Owner is a very good worker, and heÃ¢Â Â s skilled at what he does. Quality is really good for the price. Definitely something worth doing a few times a year. Clean carpets with dogs smells a lot better than dirty carpets with dogs
Xtreme Clean Team
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Reviewed in February 2022
The installers, Andres and Gerardo, were professional and did a very good job. I'm very pleased with the final product.
Dreamstyle Remodeling of New Mexico
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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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Robert Cowles PE

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Serving Standish, MI and surrounding areas

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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

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

If your home's foundation was damaged due to shifting soil, the same problem will reoccur unless you stabilize the structure by adding posts in the bedrock.

You should pick steel for your new support beam for a few reasons. While steel is more expensive than other materials, such as laminated veneer lumber or glulam, it offers the following benefits:

Fire-resistant
Unaffected by pests
Longer-lasting
Stronger against water damage (when galvanized against rust)

The process involves initial consultation, concept development, detailed planning, regulatory approvals, and integration of contractor work for project execution.

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 Standish, 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 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.
Alison Kasch
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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 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.
Dan Simms
•
Apr 9, 2026Apr 9, 2026
Why You May Need to Hire a Structural Engineer for a Home Inspection
Learn why it might be a good idea to hire a structural engineer for a home inspection in addition to a general home inspector when you’re purchasing a home.
Dan Simms
•
Apr 9, 2026Apr 9, 2026
What Is a Structural Engineer and Do You Need One?
Learn what a structural engineer is, what they do, when you might need to hire one for your home project, and how much they charge.
Em Norton
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May 5, 2026May 5, 2026
How to Hire a Structural Engineer: Complete Guide
It can be hard to choose the right pro for any job, but it matters. Learn how to hire a structural engineer who'll get the job done right from start to finish.