Get matched with top structural engineers in Cortland, NY

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>

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>

Q: Can water damage affect the structural integrity of my walls?

• <div><p>Yes, water damage can affect your walls' structural integrity. If the water or moisture sits on the walls for an extended period, it can weaken the drywall, plaster, wood framing, and other materials supporting the wall. That's why it's critical to dry out the area as soon as you notice it.</p></div>

Q: How do you know if a wall is load-bearing?

• <div><p>The easiest way to <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/load-bearing-wall.htm">tell if a wall is load bearing</a> is to check if it&rsquo;s an exterior wall or if it runs perpendicular to the joists above and below it (or parallel to beams). Exterior walls are almost always load-bearing, and walls that run under beams or parallel to them are also usually load-bearing. There are exceptions to these rules, and walls that don&rsquo;t fit into these categories can still be load-bearing. If you&rsquo;re unsure, hire a structural engineer to look at your home to assess whether or not the wall is structural.</p></div>

Q: What simultaneous construction tasks are recommended alongside this project?

• <div><p>While concrete walls do not need to &quot;breathe&quot; in the traditional sense of the word, they do require waterproofing and dehumidifying methods, particularly in basements below the water table. Concrete both contains moisture from its initial installation and can absorb water when exposed. Ensuring proper basement ventilation , installing a vapor barrier, and controlling water exposure are all important tasks.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Cortland, NY

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Cortland, NY 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 Cortland, NY 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 16, 2024

Reviewed in September 2024
Work turn out to be more than contracted. Cost adjustment was probably too low. Work was completed in a 5 level house and was everything we asked for. Had two items to tweet after completing and both addressed quickly and without question. Very willing to help find value engineering options.
Taber's Plumbing & Fabrication
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Reviewed in February 2023
These folks are top-notch. We used them for interior framing, insulation and they are adding porch roofs this spring. They are fair, timely and masterful in their trade. Call them!!!
Scenic Vista Builders, LLC
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Reviewed in January 2023
We used this company to replace a roof on both of our homes; both ashpalt and metal. The work was always superb, and their attention to detail was always impressive. The whole crew was always kind and courteous, and a joy to have working on my house. It was wonderful having such a trustworthy...
Rawson Renovations, LLC
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Reviewed in January 2023
We could not have been happier with the work Duane and Family did for us! They not only installed a beutiful high quality new roof, updated all of our overhangs, and insulated our attic, but made all sheathing repairs correctly and efficiently. They are extremely neat. Never during the project...
Continuity Construction Services, Inc.
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Reviewed in March 2022
Bovt Constructions a joy to work with their knowledge of building world is vast, and their positive attitude lends itself to the whole builds process. They are professionals who communicate effectively, work hard, and show up clean, calm and collected. This all lends itself to a mutually...
Bovt Construction
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Reviewed in December 2021
ASI Renovation's did a great job on my roof and siding repair. The job was done quickly but thoroughly. The price was great.
ASI Renovations
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Reviewed in June 2015
Spoke with Matt and Reuben initially about their ability to do the work. Since I was providing all the materials and was going to be onsite during the project they were willing to work for 72.00 an hour instead of their original quote of 80.00 an hour. <br /> They were shown detailed cad...
Perry's Amish Construction
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Reviewed in February 2015
The structure of the chair was good but it looked a little shabby. She listened to me, had really great ideas and found a way to merge our ideas. She came up with a wonderful design and now it is a statement piece. She did a great job.
LITTLESTONE DESIGNS
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Reviewed in February 2015
Saler engineer under estimated amount of time. boiler was operating within 2 days. Water heater installed a little later all went well
E&V Energy
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Reviewed in April 2014
They stuck to their estimate, which was good, but they did not come consistently and left the job site unprotected for months at a time so water and dirt got in everywhere. The workers used a nearby barn to shelter from the winter wind during work breaks, which I did not mind, however they left...
Rusty Johnson Masonary Inc
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Find Structural engineers in Cortland

Thornton Engineering, PC

5.0(

)

Serving Cortland, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 1960

"very positive. he was candid and knowledgable"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Northshore Engineering and Design

5.0(

)

Serving Cortland, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

Credit card accepted

"Very good quality work, custom design, knows the industry practice well. Happy with the final design."

Response time11 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Keystone Associates Architects, Engineers and Surveyors, LLC

New to Angi

Serving Cortland, NY and surrounding areas

Credit card accepted

Offers commercial services

Keystone Associates Architects, Engineers and Surveyors, LLC (Keystone) is a multi-disciplined design firm headquartered in Binghamton, New York, with branch offices in Cortland and Monticello, New York. Keystone was established in 1993 and has provided professional design services for a region encompassing all of Upstate New York, as well as Northeastern Pennsylvania.\n

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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

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.

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.

Yes, water damage can affect your walls' structural integrity. If the water or moisture sits on the walls for an extended period, it can weaken the drywall, plaster, wood framing, and other materials supporting the wall. That's why it's critical to dry out the area as soon as you notice it.

The easiest way to tell if a wall is load bearing is to check if it’s an exterior wall or if it runs perpendicular to the joists above and below it (or parallel to beams). Exterior walls are almost always load-bearing, and walls that run under beams or parallel to them are also usually load-bearing. There are exceptions to these rules, and walls that don’t fit into these categories can still be load-bearing. If you’re unsure, hire a structural engineer to look at your home to assess whether or not the wall is structural.

While concrete walls do not need to "breathe" in the traditional sense of the word, they do require waterproofing and dehumidifying methods, particularly in basements below the water table. Concrete both contains moisture from its initial installation and can absorb water when exposed. Ensuring proper basement ventilation , installing a vapor barrier, and controlling water exposure are all important tasks.

The Cortland, NY 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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How Much Does It Cost to Remove a Load-Bearing Wall? [2026 Data]
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Everything to Know About LVL Beams
What is an LVL beam? Read about LVL beams to determine if this material is safe and suitable for your project.
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Mar 19, 2026Mar 19, 2026
Who Do You Hire to Knock Down a Wall?
Looking to open up your living space and need to remove a wall? Learn who to hire to knock down a wall, whether it's load-bearing or non-load-bearing.
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May 3, 2026May 3, 2026
10 Signs of Structural Damage in Your Home
Keeping your home safe and structurally sound should be a top priority. Learn to recognize the signs of structural damage you should never ignore.