Is it worth getting a structural engineer?

• <div><p>If you’re building new construction or adding onto your existing home, hiring a structural engineer is not only worth it but it’s probably required by your local building department. Structural engineers will ensure you aren’t making your home unsafe in the building process, which is crucial from a safety perspective but also a legal one. It’s also worth hiring a structural engineer if you’re making changes to structural components, like removing a load-bearing wall.</p></div>

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Q: Is it worth getting a structural engineer?

• <div><p>If you&rsquo;re building new construction or adding onto your existing home, hiring a structural engineer is not only worth it but it&rsquo;s probably required by your local building department. Structural engineers will ensure you aren&rsquo;t making your home unsafe in the building process, which is crucial from a safety perspective but also a legal one. It&rsquo;s also worth hiring a structural engineer if you&rsquo;re making changes to structural components, like removing a load-bearing wall.</p></div>

Q: What do structural engineers look for when doing an inspection?

• <div><p>Structural engineers typically conduct inspections during a home sale or renovation, looking for signs of structural damage in various structures throughout the building, such as load-bearing walls, joists, beams, roofing trusses, foundations, and chimneys. Some of the warning signs that structural engineers check for include:</p><ul><li><p>Dry rot</p></li><li><p>Infestation</p></li><li><p>Shifting or<a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/quarter-inch-crack-my-foundation-major-concern.htm"> cracking foundations</a></p></li><li><p>Erosion</p></li><li><p>Water damage</p></li><li><p>Sagging, shifting, or damaged walls, ceilings, or roofing support</p></li></ul><p></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: Are all exterior walls load-bearing?

• <div><p>It's safe to assume that all exterior walls are load-bearing, or at least have load-bearing characteristics. Some older homes feature porches or bump-outs that don't rest on the home's foundation. However, they still must carry the weight of the roof section they support. Walls containing floor-to-ceiling glass or other non-structural elements must use post and beam configurations to meet load-bearing criteria. </p></div>

Q: Are walls on the top floor load-bearing?

• <div><p>Yes, walls on the top floor can be load-bearing if stacked on the floor&rsquo;s foundation.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Portland, NY

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Portland, 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 Portland, 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 14, 2022

Reviewed in May 2022
This company provides one of the best services like bathroom kitchen remodeling. They designed my place very perfectly and used high quality materials. I loved it and the most important the renovation was completed perfectly. Staff was very professional and knowledgeable. I would highly...
Safe House
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Reviewed in May 2022
Working with this company was a delightful experience. They are by far the best remodeling company I have ever come across. This is clear in not only the quality of the work they have done for me (multiple bathrooms, backyard attractions) but also, and perhaps more importantly, customer...
Safe House
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Reviewed in November 2020
Excellent business and work ethic. Very organized with regard defining structure of work to be performed, accurate monetary estimates, and accurate material and duration of work estimates. Keeps customer informed of delivery schedule, any delays, and reasons. Works diligently and...
Buck Conctruction
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Reviewed in June 2020
If you are looking for honest, reliable, and knowledgeable craftsman then these are the guys for you. They just finished some structural repairs to my front porch and I'm extremely happy with their work and service. I would not hesitate to hire them again and would recommend them without...
JK Construction and Painting
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Reviewed in May 2015
During the Fall of 2014 I hired Lakeland Upholstery to upholster two 1950's chrome and vinyl kitchen chairs. I had their assistant Jess look at the chairs and quote me a price. Jess informed me to remove the two seats and backs from the frame of the chairs. Jess stated to me, " This will be an...
Lakeland Upholstery Inc.
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Reviewed in October 2013
They were so nice. My stupid check engine light kept coming on, and then I'd have to go get it fixed, drive it for a hundred mikes, and check to see if the car's computer was ready. I think I went back to the shop about a dozen times over several weeks for this purpose,a and even though they got...
HILLER TIRE SVC INC
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Reviewed in September 2013
see above <br /> check engine light on. <br /> replace cooling unit, radiator, new battery. <br />
HARTLEY BUICK HONDA PONTIAC
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Find Structural engineers in Portland

Thornton Engineering, PC

5.0(

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Serving Portland, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 1960

"very positive. he was candid and knowledgable"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

If you’re building new construction or adding onto your existing home, hiring a structural engineer is not only worth it but it’s probably required by your local building department. Structural engineers will ensure you aren’t making your home unsafe in the building process, which is crucial from a safety perspective but also a legal one. It’s also worth hiring a structural engineer if you’re making changes to structural components, like removing a load-bearing wall.

Structural engineers typically conduct inspections during a home sale or renovation, looking for signs of structural damage in various structures throughout the building, such as load-bearing walls, joists, beams, roofing trusses, foundations, and chimneys. Some of the warning signs that structural engineers check for include:

Dry rot
Infestation
Shifting or cracking foundations
Erosion
Water damage
Sagging, shifting, or damaged walls, ceilings, or roofing support

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

It's safe to assume that all exterior walls are load-bearing, or at least have load-bearing characteristics. Some older homes feature porches or bump-outs that don't rest on the home's foundation. However, they still must carry the weight of the roof section they support. Walls containing floor-to-ceiling glass or other non-structural elements must use post and beam configurations to meet load-bearing criteria.

Yes, walls on the top floor can be load-bearing if stacked on the floor’s foundation.

The Portland, NY homeowners’ guide to structural engineering services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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