Is LVL more affordable than steel I-beams?

• <div><p>Yes, an LVL beam is more affordable than the <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-steel-i-beam-cost.htm">cost of a steel I-beam</a>, totaling between $50 and $200 per linear foot as opposed to the $100 to $400 per linear foot you’d pay for a steel I-beam. Not only is the wood material more affordable than steel, but it’s also more similar to traditional wooden beams and doesn’t require as much retrofitting to connect joists. </p></div>

Get matched with top structural engineers in Bonneauville, PA

Q: Is a structural engineer’s report worth it?

• <div><p>A structural engineer&rsquo;s report is almost always worth it, as it can help you avoid buying or overpaying for a home with structural issues. The most important thing the report does for you is provide peace of mind that you won&rsquo;t have to pay thousands of dollars for structural repairs right after closing on a property. </p></div>

Q: Are ceiling joists load-bearing?

• <div><p>Yes, ceiling joists are typically load-bearing. However, their primary function is to support the weight of the ceiling and loads applied to it, like lighting fixtures and ceiling fans. They can also help support the roof, especially if they&rsquo;re part of truss systems. Remember, the load-bearing capacity of ceiling joists depends on the material, size, and space between them. </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: How do I know if I need a structural engineer?

• <div><p>You need to <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-hire-a-structural-engineer.htm">hire a structural engineer</a> when building or modifying any component with a structural load in your home. Common situations where you would need a structural engineer include home inspections when buying or selling a home, investigating possible issues with your foundation, beams, load-bearing walls, or chimneys, breaking ground on a new home or structure on your property, and renovating an old part of your home that could threaten any structural integrity. Home additions and bump-outs also require an engineer. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Bonneauville, PA

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Bonneauville, PA 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 Bonneauville, PA 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 February 15, 2022

Reviewed in February 2022
Very professional slope engineering and machine operator
Hartlaub's Excavating, LLC
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Reviewed in July 2020
The entire process was absolutely painless. I obtained 3 bids to complete the spray foam insulation process and based on the competitive price and the professionalism when they were determining their cost, I went with Tri-State. Everything they told us from the dates of installation to the total...
Tri-State Builders
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Reviewed in July 2017
After providing another supplier/installer with a budget for my project, discussing the project with them many times and picking materials, they assured me that they could do the job within my budget. The next week they gave me a quote that was more than 50% over my budget! I was shocked. I...
BALTIMORE FLOOR WORKS
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Reviewed in June 2017
Such a gentleman and honest. He went above and beyond to make sure the structural issues caused from the previous remodel (June 1959!) were corrected. I think other companies would have quit when they saw the amount of work involved. Would most definitely hire again.
Room For Improvement
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Reviewed in June 2017
they have done windows and siding for us. The windows were 1st. It took forever for the windows to arrive because of an ordering snafu. The windows arrived, and when unloading the bow window (which was quite heavy and large), they almost dropped it and put a small dent in the bottom edge, it...
Excel Remodeling Corporation
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Reviewed in January 2016
Basement Masters is the ONLY CHOICE if you want a top notch professional team to make your dream a reality!!! Pavel and his team took my dream design and with some adjustments and turned it into a beautiful living and work space â my wife and I could not be happier. During the first...
Basement Masters
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Reviewed in December 2015
<p>I've been using Myers Flooring for many years. In fact, they are the only flooring company I trust to do any of our flooring needs.</p> <p>This project involved updating our existing hardwood flooring in our upstairs landing and hallway with solid bamboo to match the rest of the rooms...
Myers Floors & Interiors
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Reviewed in June 2015
Mike and company built a terrific free-standing garage adjacent to out home. This was a 3 car oversized garage with a bathroom and finished second floor. The project also involved coordinating installation of a new whole-house generator and associated underground propane tank. So we're...
M & J Smith Construction
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Reviewed in September 2014
It breaks my heart to write this review, but I simply have <br /> no other alternative. Ed seems like a very nice guy and I am sorry that he has <br /> let us down so thoroughly. <br /> We first hired Ed to enclose an exterior, second-story porch <br /> in our 1879 4,000 square foot house....
EDWARD T COALE CONTRACTOR
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Reviewed in April 2014
Arrived on time; prepared to work. Ran into some structural problems and worked around them. Very knowledgeable with at least 15 years experience as I learned thru conversation. Pleasant personality. Kept me in the loop as to the progress. Left everything neat and clean. The cost was, to...
HARRY M. VON SAS & SON LLC
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Find Structural engineers in Bonneauville

NEC Solutions, LLC

5.0(

)

Serving Bonneauville, PA and surrounding areas

In business since 2015

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Dee is a solid guy and excellent engineer. My project required him to design and create the engineering specs to navigate our town's permitting process. His thoroughness exceeded my expectations. I recommend and trust Dee on any future project."

+10

Response time7 hrs

Recommended by54%of homeowners

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Gerhart Engineering Company

4.0(

222

)

Serving Bonneauville, PA and surrounding areas

In business since 1988

Free estimates

"Clear specific recommendations to stabilize and correct sinking foundation & leaning walls on my 100 year old solid brick garage. Will implement recommendations. Although engineering report was promised within 7 to 10 days of inspection, it was received in 25 days. Worth the wait, great overall experience."

Response time1 day

Recommended by92%of homeowners

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Gerhart Engineering Company

4.0(

162

)

Serving Bonneauville, PA and surrounding areas

In business since 1988

Free estimates

"The engineer was very friendly and professional."

Tolans drill rig for extinguishing mine fire

+23

Recommended by91%of homeowners

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Hanover Waterproofing

5.0(

)

Serving Bonneauville, PA and surrounding areas

We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity and quality work. We strongly believe in giving our absolute best in all of our projects no matter how big, or small. We are experts in our trade, and will always keep you educated on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business! We Also offer financing.

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

A structural engineer’s report is almost always worth it, as it can help you avoid buying or overpaying for a home with structural issues. The most important thing the report does for you is provide peace of mind that you won’t have to pay thousands of dollars for structural repairs right after closing on a property.

Yes, ceiling joists are typically load-bearing. However, their primary function is to support the weight of the ceiling and loads applied to it, like lighting fixtures and ceiling fans. They can also help support the roof, especially if they’re part of truss systems. Remember, the load-bearing capacity of ceiling joists depends on the material, size, and space between them.

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.

You need to hire a structural engineer when building or modifying any component with a structural load in your home. Common situations where you would need a structural engineer include home inspections when buying or selling a home, investigating possible issues with your foundation, beams, load-bearing walls, or chimneys, breaking ground on a new home or structure on your property, and renovating an old part of your home that could threaten any structural integrity. Home additions and bump-outs also require an engineer.

Yes, an LVL beam is more affordable than the cost of a steel I-beam, totaling between $50 and $200 per linear foot as opposed to the $100 to $400 per linear foot you’d pay for a steel I-beam. Not only is the wood material more affordable than steel, but it’s also more similar to traditional wooden beams and doesn’t require as much retrofitting to connect joists.

The Bonneauville, PA 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

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.
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.
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.
Rachel Hoffman
•
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.
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
•
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.