Get matched with top structural engineers in Brownstown, PA

Q: How do contractors cut a doorway in a concrete block wall?

• <div><p>First, most contractors will have a structural engineer create a report and plan for your project to ensure it&rsquo;s safe to cut into the load-bearing wall. The contractor will then excavate around the wall, if necessary, measure the opening&mdash;allowing for additional space to fit and level the door, and then cut the doorway out. They will likely install a steel lintel as a header over the door for support. Once the doorway is cut out, they&rsquo;ll demolish the concrete using sledge hammers and masonry chisels, clean up the surrounding concrete, and seal around the door with masonry mortar. </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 10 10 rule in construction?

• <div><p>The 10 10 rule describes the formula most contractors use to determine how much to charge for a job. Allowing for 10% overhead above the total projected cost to do the work and 10% profit sets a contractor up for success, even if there are delays or other problems on the project. This formula isn&rsquo;t a hard-and-fast rule, but it is a ballpark figure to begin with when estimating your expenses on a 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>

Q: Can termite damage affect home structural value?

• <div><p>Yes, unresolved damage can decrease property integrity and market value.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Brownstown, PA

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Brownstown, 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 Brownstown, 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 November 01, 2024

Reviewed in November 2024
Renovations/Additions are not easy and the reason why we delayed this project for two years... A contractor must be creative and thorough to make the addition blend with current structure and "look right" Owner Dan S. was on our jobsite consistently and communicated well regarding...
Gateway Building Concepts LLC
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Reviewed in January 2024
We cannot in good conscience recommend this builder. We were hopeful in the start as EG was highly praised but it appears their standards have fallen, especially in the Lititz communities. The sales and building process did not go smoothly. We had several issues with miscommunication regarding...
Art Barker
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Reviewed in May 2022
I have used Guthrie welding service for a few things in the past. Everything from a custom fire pit, a brush bar for my Silverado, and a structural header beam with anchors for a new door opening. Great communication and timely delivery is why I recommend this company!
Guthrie Welding Service
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Reviewed in November 2021
The engineer was certified/licensed professional that is very knowledgeable, polite and explained in detail every test that he would perform on my home. He pointed out trouble areas and explained root cause. All this was followed up with a comprehensive analysis and solution report. Frank and...
Real Estate Inspections
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Reviewed in November 2020
My experience with Green Home Solutions of Lancaster was a dream come true. I had a major issue with mold / water damage which required structural repair. The initial contact was almost like talking to a friend, which I now consider the entire team as friends now. The work crew were efficient...
Green Home Solutions
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Reviewed in February 2019
Great! I have had many projects completed in my 30 year old home and have used various contractors. Touch of Class was by far the most professional group I’ve hired. The room was an add shape and there were some challenges and Steve and his crew made it seem simple. The design results were very...
A Touch of Class Remodeling INC
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Reviewed in October 2018
Barrett Restoration did a great job demolishing a structure for me. Charles was very polite and thorough in his process. Cleaned up nicely and hauled debris away as well.
Barrett Restoration, LLC
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Reviewed in February 2018
You won't be disappointed! From start to finish the project was one of the best experiences I've had with a contractor and even finished earlier than expected. When I first met Max he was on time, friendly, offered suggestions, listened to my ideas, and worked with my schedule. They...
Maxamus Projects
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Reviewed in October 2016
Mina Mikaeel of Kiro Engineering responded to my request immediately and was able to set up an appointment with me for the following day. My query involved the soundness of a building structural support. He took me through the entire examination process. He explained everything that he was...
Kiro Engineering, LLC
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Reviewed in August 2013
We purchased an 1880's era row home in downtown Lancaster. It had been rental property for many years and needed a lot of restoration. We'd had Lancaster Contracting do the roof last year, and asked for a quote on restoring the second floor porch this year. The porch itself had seen years and...
Lancaster Contracting
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Find Structural engineers in Brownstown

Kiro Engineering LLC

5.0(

)

Serving Brownstown, PA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2011

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Mina is extremely knowledgeable, clear, patient, and upfront. I never hired a structural engineer before and was feeling intimidated by the process. Kiro Engineering understood my issues and home renovation desires and provided me several solutions to make sure the result was safe and properly executed. Through conversation it was clear that Kiro is equally at home dealing with a homeowner like myself as well as very high end extensive and commercial projects. I can’t recommend Kiro enough for any structural engineering projects."

Response time11 hrs

1 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by97%of homeowners

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Kiro Engineering, LLC

4.8(

)

Serving Brownstown, PA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2011

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Very professional experience with Mina, the engineer who thoroughly explained his findings and suggested remedies. He confirmed house settlement suspicions and causes in a lengthy, detailed report complete with photos. I trust Kiro Engineering and would highly recommend them for structural engineering consultation and peace of mind."

Response time8 hrs

Recommended by95%of homeowners

Serving Brownstown, PA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2015

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"We had a great experience working with NEC. I specifically appreciated the effieciency time wise and continuos maximum effort despite setbacks. Thank you NEC!"

+35

2 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by50%of homeowners

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Whye Structural Services, LLC

4.8(

)

Serving Brownstown, PA and surrounding areas

In business since 2000

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Fast and accurate engineering drawings need to obtain a building permit. Very pleased with his service."

Response time7 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Brownstown, PA and surrounding areas

In business since 2015

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Excellent experience with NEC. Very reasonably priced and prompt turn arounds. Very good results. Highly recommended. Would hire again."

+10

Response time7 hrs

Recommended by54%of homeowners

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Gerhart Engineering Company

4.0(

222

)

Serving Brownstown, PA and surrounding areas

In business since 1988

Free estimates

"Spot on with his service and price. Was on time to the site and sent the plans exactly as promised. Would definitely recommend."

Response time1 day

Recommended by92%of homeowners

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Arius Builders and Engineers LLC

5.0(

)

Serving Brownstown, PA and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Saed and his team helped me with two different projects in my home, one was to remove our load bearing kitchen wall and the other was to create a vaulted ceiling in the living room by removing the ceiling joists. They handled both the permitting documentation and the construction work. They completed the work quickly and did everything they said they would. Saed and his brother are very easy-going guys, and I would highly recommend them."

Prepped the kitchen for sanding and hardwood restoration

+25

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Gerhart Engineering Company

4.0(

162

)

Serving Brownstown, 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

Serving Brownstown, PA and surrounding areas

In business since 2004

Free estimates

Trusted by small businesses & large corporations, FIALCO, LLC helps You develop smart, functional & cost effective designs for various construction Projects. As the result, high percentage of our business is from repeat customers & referrals.\nFIALCO is a team of skilled & creative engineers & designers with exceptional work ethics. We enjoy working with people, appreciate the importance of achieving quality in engineering & construction & are constantly available to assist & guide our customers toward the best possible designs. We can offer you a broad base of knowledge, strong desire & a proven ability to solve various engineering & design problems promptly & efficiently.\nFIALCO can offer you Civil/Structural/Architectural Engineering & Design Services for residential, commercial & industrial construction Projects; structural inspections; permitting services. FIALCO is ready to help with your engineering & design needs. Please call at 215.394.5599 or e-mail at [email protected].

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Hanover Waterproofing

5.0(

)

Serving Brownstown, PA and surrounding areas

"It worked out perfectly. They did a great job. They were on time and very professional. I would recommend them."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

First, most contractors will have a structural engineer create a report and plan for your project to ensure it’s safe to cut into the load-bearing wall. The contractor will then excavate around the wall, if necessary, measure the opening—allowing for additional space to fit and level the door, and then cut the doorway out. They will likely install a steel lintel as a header over the door for support. Once the doorway is cut out, they’ll demolish the concrete using sledge hammers and masonry chisels, clean up the surrounding concrete, and seal around the door with masonry mortar.

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 10 10 rule describes the formula most contractors use to determine how much to charge for a job. Allowing for 10% overhead above the total projected cost to do the work and 10% profit sets a contractor up for success, even if there are delays or other problems on the project. This formula isn’t a hard-and-fast rule, but it is a ballpark figure to begin with when estimating your expenses on a 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.

Yes, unresolved damage can decrease property integrity and market value.

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