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Absolutely, as it ensures designs are viable and won’t compromise structural integrity.

No, squeaky floors do not always mean there is structural damage. The noise is often caused by friction from issues like loose floorboards, gaps between the subfloor and joists, or loose subflooring. While many squeaks are harmless, persistent or worsening noise could indicate a more severe problem. If you notice other signs of structural damage—such as soft or sagging floors, cracks running from the wall to the ceiling, or horizontal cracks in your foundation—it's best to have a professional inspect your floor to determine the root cause.

Signs of structural damage include foundation cracks, roof leaks, bouncy floors, crumbling concrete, and cracked or leaning chimneys. Structural damage can make itself apparent in various ways, and sometimes, there may not be obvious signs. Inspect your foundation and roof annually to stay ahead of potentially serious structural problems. 

Failure to compact the soil during construction is the most common cause of leaning retaining walls. In addition, poor drainage can lead to excessive water pressure behind a retaining wall, pushing against it until it begins to move forward away from the soil it is holding back.