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>

Get matched with top structural engineers in Ransomville, NY

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: 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: How much weight can 6 inches of concrete hold?

• <div><p>On average, 6 inches of concrete can hold around 150 pounds per square foot, but the exact weight that 6 inches of concrete can hold depends on factors such as the type of concrete, the reinforcement method, soil conditions below, and structural design. If you&rsquo;re concerned about the longevity of your concrete patio, walkway, or driveway, hire a professional to help you choose an appropriate concrete thickness and reinforcement method for your needs. </p></div>

Q: If you do the work yourself, how can you be sure your home is still structurally sound?

• <div><p>If you intend to do the majority of the work yourself, you can <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-architect-cost.htm">pay to hire an architect</a> or a structural engineer to ensure your home remains structurally sound. They can help with the planning to make sure everything is up to code and safe for your family. On the other hand, if you&rsquo;re not sure your home will be completely safe when you&rsquo;ve completed the project, let a pro do the job.</p></div>

Q: What are the signs of structural damage?

• <div><p><a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/signs-of-structural-damage.htm">Signs of structural damage</a> 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. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Ransomville, NY

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Ransomville, 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 Ransomville, 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 December 06, 2025

Reviewed in December 2025
We paid $100,000 for a pole barn home build, and this contractor walked away before finishing the job. Since then, he has completely ignored every call and text, and his wife — who he claims manages the money — has also stopped responding. Here’s what we’re dealing with: • No functioning heat...
A L BROWN PLUMBING & HEATING
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Reviewed in July 2025
Kurt was very knowledgable and well informed about small engine repairs. Loved the fact that he was willing to come to the house. While here he repaired a push lawn mower and Cub Cadet rider. He was very prompt and courteous and would definitely recommend him.
Kurt Byers
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Reviewed in November 2024
I have never had a construction project go so smoothly. Jim is great to work with and more importantly he is willing to work with you to make sure your project gets done. Once the project started there were some surprises we ran into with city code and Jim was able to work through those...
Revive Renovators
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Reviewed in September 2024
We hired SZ Home Construction to repair the exterior of our Tudor home. They were professional, reasonable, and reliable. We were very happy with their work. They were the 4th contractor we had look at the job and they came when they said they would and did fantastic work. We would...
SZ Home Construction
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Reviewed in March 2024
Excellent work and work ethic! Showed up on time every day. Cleaned up every day and as needed. Dale was previously a physical therapist. He considered ideas for us. We are a senior couple, wanting to downsize. He installed a pocket door and washer/dryer in the bathroom instead of us going up...
Double D Home Repair and Remodeling
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Reviewed in December 2023
We were very happy with the work and the personal experience. It was like having your family come and visit you each day. The work was excellent, especially since our roof and gutters face a steep hill on our west side. The pricing was very reasonable and competitive and cleanup was thorough....
J.P. Construction
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Reviewed in May 2022
They did a great job, fit me in their schedule to quickly repair some masonry issues in my building. Would be the first ones I would call for future masonry and concrete work.
True Line Construction LLC.
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Reviewed in March 2022
A good company with plenty of skill at roofing .
MH White Siding & Roofing Company
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Reviewed in January 2022
My old apartment was a third floor walkup through a very narrow staircase. I hired Rob The Mover to get my furniture out and then transport them. They somehow managed to get every piece of my furniture out of that building without a scratch on them. The next challenge was my new apartment. It...
Rob The Mover
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Reviewed in September 2016
We originally hired Tom to inspect the crawl space under the house in which we were closing on. Our lender had requested an inspection of the foundation. Tom was very willing to help us out and even offered a complete home inspection. We had already received a home inspection months before this,...
Home and Structure Inspections
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Find Structural engineers in Ransomville

Thornton Engineering, PC

5.0(

)

Serving Ransomville, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 1960

"very positive. he was candid and knowledgable"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Parker Bay Engineering

2.6(

)

Serving Ransomville, 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

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VHS Engineering

New to Angi

Serving Ransomville, 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

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.

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.

On average, 6 inches of concrete can hold around 150 pounds per square foot, but the exact weight that 6 inches of concrete can hold depends on factors such as the type of concrete, the reinforcement method, soil conditions below, and structural design. If you’re concerned about the longevity of your concrete patio, walkway, or driveway, hire a professional to help you choose an appropriate concrete thickness and reinforcement method for your needs.

If you intend to do the majority of the work yourself, you can pay to hire an architect or a structural engineer to ensure your home remains structurally sound. They can help with the planning to make sure everything is up to code and safe for your family. On the other hand, if you’re not sure your home will be completely safe when you’ve completed the project, let a pro do the job.

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.

The Ransomville, 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

Alison Kasch
•
Apr 4, 2026Apr 4, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Remove a Load-Bearing Wall? [2026 Data]
Do you have a load-bearing wall standing between you and your projects that you want to remove? Learn about the cost of removing a load-bearing wall.
Dan Simms
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does Steel I-Beam Installation Cost? [2026 Data]
A new steel I-beam is more durable than a wooden one. Learn what factors can affect steel I-beam installation costs and how to budget for this project.
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
•
Apr 9, 2026Apr 9, 2026
Why You May Need to Hire a Structural Engineer for a Home Inspection
Learn why it might be a good idea to hire a structural engineer for a home inspection in addition to a general home inspector when you’re purchasing a home.
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.
Kyle Schurman
•
Mar 19, 2026Mar 19, 2026
Who to Hire to Replace a Sill Plate?
A sill plate needs to be replaced when it starts to rot out. Use this guide to help you know who to hire to replace a sill plate at your home.