Do I need a structural engineer to knock down a wall?

• <div><p>In many areas, advice from a structural engineer or an architect will be required by your building department before you can remove a wall, but even if it’s not necessary, it’s a good idea. Accidentally removing a load-bearing wall—even if a general contractor advises that it’s safe—can cause major structural damage, putting you and your family at risk and potentially costing thousands or tens of thousands of dollars in property damage.</p></div>

Get matched with top structural engineers in Irondequoit, NY

Q: How do I know if cracks are structural?

• <div><p>The best way to determine if ceiling cracks are structural is to hire a ceiling contractor to inspect the cracks and provide a professional opinion. That said, you might be able to make an educated guess based on the size and appearance of the crack. Larger cracks, cracks accompanied by sagging or discoloration, and cracks that travel from the ceiling down the walls are all signs of structural issues.</p></div>

Q: What factors affect assembly costs?

• <div><p>Costs depend on furniture type, size, complexity, and whether additional modifications are needed.</p></div>

Q: Can I cut or drill LVL beams?

• <div><p>It is not recommended to cut or drill into LVL (laminated veneer lumber) beams. As major structural components of a home, their composite structure can be compromised by alterations, which can weaken them and lead to cracking over time. If you must make modifications to an LVL beam, it is crucial to consult a structural engineer or general contractor first. A professional can advise on whether it's safe and provide specifics on the appropriate bit size, depth, and directionality for any necessary drilling.</p></div>

Q: What are the disadvantages of a cathedral ceiling?

• <div><p>Cathedral ceilings make a statement in your home, but at the cost of your attic space. Normal attics are wide open, which allows warm air to move around and exit your home. Because of this, cathedral ceilings make your home less energy efficient and put your ceiling at risk of venting issues if you&rsquo;re not careful. They also reduce your attic storage space, potentially cause an echo, and even make it harder to change a light bulb. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Irondequoit, NY

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Irondequoit, 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 Irondequoit, 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 October 30, 2024

Reviewed in October 2024
Paul responded quickly to my home with an assessment and quote to fix vertical hairline cracks in my concrete block foundation (100 years old). He provided the same information that I got from another mason (similar quote) and a structural engineer (phone consultation). I do that for every...
AI Developers Masonry
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Reviewed in June 2022
Excellent craftsmanship. Great installation. The scheduling was perfect. Highly recommend. Loomis Brothers did a great job.
Loomis Brother's Construction
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Reviewed in April 2022
Dream Work Designs renovated my 30' x 16' deck. I had them rip everything out except the structure and replace it. As it turns out, they even ended up doing some structural work for me--sistering floor joists, squaring an end joist, and improving on the original stairs. These were not things I...
Dream Work Designs
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Reviewed in September 2021
Vincent is polite, friendly and capable. Very pleased with finished job of replacing rotted wood on wooden deck privacy screen structure.
DV Home Innovations
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Reviewed in August 2018
Pat's Small Engine Repair diagnosed a problem with tractor as needing an expensive repair of approximately $ 350. minimum. The repair was not recommended, due to tractor's old age. He also discouraged expense of having tractor looked at by others. Based on diagnosis, a metal scrap business was...
Pat's Small Engine Repair
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Reviewed in October 2017
They are not inexpensive and finding the right fabric in their shop is not always easy but they have a wonderful selection, are completely professional, and do exquisite work. They do not do structural repairs (woodwork, damaged frames, etc.) and the work does not happen quickly but the results...
J & P UPHOLSTERING
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Reviewed in October 2014
This project was a little unique in that we were placing a new garage slab (foundation) under an existing garage. The garage is about 100 years old, and never had a foundation. It was literally built on the dirt and rotting away as a result. There was an existing asphalt/concrete floor that...
Mattern Masonry
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Reviewed in August 2014
David was very courteous and pointed out many things that either needed to be replaced or fixed on the property. He explained what could or should be done with items ranging from plumbing, electrical, and structural items. These where part of what I asked the owner to fix or replace before I...
Advanced Home Awareness Home Inspections
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Reviewed in March 2014
Outside appeared to be structurally solid, but roof leaked and needed to be redone because of improper construction technique. Interior drywall was patched together pieces which were fastened with roofing nails (including ceiling). Taping and sanding was poorly done. Outlets were not properly...
Gerlach Home Improvement
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Reviewed in January 2013
We asked for three estimates and had contractors visit us. <br /> We had a standard set of questions we asked each, trying to standardize our evaluations. <br /> We had not done a project like this before, so we did not know how far our budget (originally 25K) would go. Vella came right out...
VELLA BATH & KITCHEN INC
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Find Structural engineers in Irondequoit

Northshore Engineering and Design

4.9(

)

Serving Irondequoit, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

Emergency services offered

Small jobs welcome

"Northshore responded quickly to our inquiry and was able to complete the structural analysis we needed within a week. We received our report quickly. Everything was thorough and professional."

+29

Response time1 day

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Thornton Engineering, PC

5.0(

)

Serving Irondequoit, 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 Irondequoit, 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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VHS Engineering

New to Angi

Serving Irondequoit, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 2000

Offers commercial services

We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We are experts in our trade and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business!

Response time1 hour

Response rate94%

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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

The best way to determine if ceiling cracks are structural is to hire a ceiling contractor to inspect the cracks and provide a professional opinion. That said, you might be able to make an educated guess based on the size and appearance of the crack. Larger cracks, cracks accompanied by sagging or discoloration, and cracks that travel from the ceiling down the walls are all signs of structural issues.

Costs depend on furniture type, size, complexity, and whether additional modifications are needed.

It is not recommended to cut or drill into LVL (laminated veneer lumber) beams. As major structural components of a home, their composite structure can be compromised by alterations, which can weaken them and lead to cracking over time. If you must make modifications to an LVL beam, it is crucial to consult a structural engineer or general contractor first. A professional can advise on whether it's safe and provide specifics on the appropriate bit size, depth, and directionality for any necessary drilling.

Cathedral ceilings make a statement in your home, but at the cost of your attic space. Normal attics are wide open, which allows warm air to move around and exit your home. Because of this, cathedral ceilings make your home less energy efficient and put your ceiling at risk of venting issues if you’re not careful. They also reduce your attic storage space, potentially cause an echo, and even make it harder to change a light bulb.

In many areas, advice from a structural engineer or an architect will be required by your building department before you can remove a wall, but even if it’s not necessary, it’s a good idea. Accidentally removing a load-bearing wall—even if a general contractor advises that it’s safe—can cause major structural damage, putting you and your family at risk and potentially costing thousands or tens of thousands of dollars in property damage.

The Irondequoit, 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

Haley Nothstein
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Main House Support Beam? [2026 Data]
A damaged main support beam can cause serious structural damage to your house. Learn how much it costs to replace a main house support beam.
Timothy Moore
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Install an LVL Beam? [2026 Data]
Looking to remove load-bearing walls and vertical supports to open up your living space? Learn about what affects the cost to install an LVL beam.
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.
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.
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.
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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.