Are there benefits to consulting an engineer before home modifications?

• <div><p>Absolutely, as it ensures designs are viable and won’t compromise structural integrity.</p></div>

Get matched with top structural engineers in Lake View, NY

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: Are there benefits to consulting an engineer before home modifications?

• <div><p>Absolutely, as it ensures designs are viable and won&rsquo;t compromise structural integrity.</p></div>

Q: Are brick houses safer in an earthquake?

• <div><p>According to the <a href="https://www.earthquakecountry.org/step4/urmwalls/#:~:text=Houses%20built%20of%20unreinforced%20masonry,and%20the%20roof%20is%20critical.">Earthquake Country Alliance</a>&mdash;a public and private alliance in California that works to improve earthquake and tsunami readiness&mdash;reports that unreinforced masonry, such as stone, bricks, and hollow clay tiles, is more susceptible to earthquake damage. The mortar between bricks isn&rsquo;t as stable as other building materials and methods.</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: Is a structural engineer the same as a builder?

• <div><p>No, a structural engineer is not the same as a builder. A structural engineer is an expert in all things related to the structural integrity of a building. The structural engineer is responsible for calculating the correct materials in terms of load-bearing capacity and overall structural safety. Structural engineers do not perform the actual building of the house or other structures. Rather, the builder executes the plans and designs specified by the structural engineer.</p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your structural engineering project in Lake View, NY?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Lake View, NY

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Lake View, 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 Lake View, 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 May 12, 2026

Reviewed in May 2026
My husband and I bought an old home three years ago with the intention of fixing it up and making it our own. Needless to say, we have dealt with our fair share of contractors and have seen it all—the good, the bad, and the ugly. Jose and WNY Engineering have been among the best and easiest...
WNY Engineering and Construction Management
Request a quote
Reviewed in December 2024
I hired Evolves Construction Inc. to do a kitchen remodel, and I?m so happy with the results. The crew was skilled and made sure to address all my concerns. The project was completed on time, and the quality of work was outstanding.
Evolves Construction
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2021
I really was apprehensive using ANGI again! Nickle City Property Management did through and concerned work on my ton of leaves! It’s quite the job, 1/2 acre w 13 trees and 2 structures. Called when expected, showed up when expected, completes entire job as expected! High regards and also very...
Nickel City Property Maintenance
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2021
I highly recommend the company. G Roofing did a fantastic job in my house, they come and do the installation, they were able to explain from start to end and they are very professional.
G Roofing, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2021
I highly recommend Cortese Construction Services. They installed our Better Living Sunroom and attached vinyl deck. The project was completed earlier than originally projected and within budget. The quality of workmanship and materials was excellent. Nick’s customer service and personal...
Cortese Brothers Constr Co Inc
Request a quote
Reviewed in December 2020
We hired Russell Renovation to finish a 1300 sq ft unfinished basement. Tim, Seth and the crew exceeded my expectations. We hired them based on reading reviews online, we had 1 recommendation from a friend of a friend, and after meeting Tim he showed us 2 basements he did. They created a...
RUSSELL RENOVATIONS WNY INC.
Request a quote
Reviewed in September 2020
We decided to explore the idea of adding a covering to our deck this year, and consulted with Robert Szudzik as to what options we would have. He was honest and upfront in noting that our best option would be to remove the deck to allow for better space and clearance. We did just that, and had a...
Robert A. Szudzik Architect
Request a quote
Reviewed in September 2016
I called Frank’s Basement Systems for an opinion on what was wrong with my basement. The rear wall was cracking and the floor had many new cracks. I thought I had a drainage problem causing pressure or erosion to crack my basement floor and I thought I would need part of the floor ripped up to...
Frank's Basement Systems
Request a quote
Reviewed in January 2016
They were obviously here for a while due to the amount of work that needed to be completed. The crew was a pleasure to have around and we became friends with them. Respectful, courteous, and on time. There were a lot of moving parts to our job and they handled all it very well. And worked...
Irish Pride Services
Request a quote
Reviewed in April 2014
I hired Charles to evaluate the floor joists in my house. I called him with my concerns and he arrived promptly the next day. House is 100 + years old and some of the joists were notched or cut over the years to make room for plumbing/electrical. Charles explained that everything was...
Turner Engineering
Request a quote

Find Structural engineers in Lake View

Everything Outdoors

4.3(

)

Serving Lake View, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 2006

Free estimates

"Great! They were very professional and did excellent work.
"

Recommended by81%of homeowners

Request Quote

Thornton Engineering, PC

5.0(

)

Serving Lake View, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 1960

"very positive. he was candid and knowledgable"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Parker Bay Engineering

2.6(

)

Serving Lake View, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 1990

Emergency services offered

"Very professional. The process was smooth and comprehensive. Still have a ways to go but, so far, so good."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

VHS Engineering

New to Angi

Serving Lake View, 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%

Request Quote

Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

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.

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

According to the Earthquake Country Alliance—a public and private alliance in California that works to improve earthquake and tsunami readiness—reports that unreinforced masonry, such as stone, bricks, and hollow clay tiles, is more susceptible to earthquake damage. The mortar between bricks isn’t as stable as other building materials and methods.

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.

No, a structural engineer is not the same as a builder. A structural engineer is an expert in all things related to the structural integrity of a building. The structural engineer is responsible for calculating the correct materials in terms of load-bearing capacity and overall structural safety. Structural engineers do not perform the actual building of the house or other structures. Rather, the builder executes the plans and designs specified by the structural engineer.

The Lake View, 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

Lyle Hendriks
•
May 5, 2026May 5, 2026
How Much Does Beam Installation Cost [2026 Data]
Beam installation costs are an important consideration if you’re building a home or doing renovations. Learn about average costs and factors in this guide.
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.
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
•
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.
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.
Rachel Hoffman
•
May 2, 2026May 2, 2026
Structural Steel Beam vs. Wood Beam: Which Is Right for You?
Structural steel and wood beams ensure your house is structurally sound. Learn the difference between steel and wood beams and how to choose the right one.