Why should I pick steel for my new support beam?

• <div><p>You should pick steel for your new support beam for a few reasons. While steel is more expensive than other materials, such as laminated veneer lumber or glulam, it offers the following benefits:</p><ul><li><p>Fire-resistant</p></li><li><p>Unaffected by pests</p></li><li><p>Longer-lasting</p></li><li><p>Stronger against water damage (when galvanized against rust)</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

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>

Does a structural engineer need to be licensed?

• <div><p>Yes, all states require structural engineers to carry the proper license, with specifics determined by each state. You can use Angi’s <a href="https://www.angi.com/angi-license-check.htm">state licensing tool</a> to confirm that the structural engineer you’re considering holds the required licensing to tackle your job. Hiring an unlicensed structural engineer will not only cause issues with permits but it could also lead to an unsafe building. The cost of a professional, licensed, and experienced engineer is well worth the investment.</p></div>

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Q: What are the disadvantages of a cathedral ceiling?

• <div><p>Cathedral ceilings make a statement in your home, but at the cost of your attic space. Normal attics are wide open, which allows warm air to move around and exit your home. Because of this, cathedral ceilings make your home less energy efficient and put your ceiling at risk of venting issues if you&rsquo;re not careful. They also reduce your attic storage space, potentially cause an echo, and even make it harder to change a light bulb. </p></div>

Q: Why are studs 16 inches apart?

• <div><p>In framing, studs are placed at 16-inch intervals to coincide with the typical spacing of wall materials such as drywall or plywood. This spacing is called &quot;on-center&quot; and is necessary for maintaining structural stability and efficient use of materials. The 16-inch spacing also helps to distribute the weight evenly across the building's structure. For those looking to cut material costs and improve energy efficiency, 24-inch stud spacing can be employed through a method called &quot;advanced framing&quot;. This requires careful planning and adherence to local building codes to ensure structural integrity. </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>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Summerset, SD

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Summerset, SD 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 Summerset, SD 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 October 06, 2025

Reviewed in October 2025
Ponderosa Builders did a great job building my garage. I couldn't be more satisfied with the results.
Ponderosa Builders
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Reviewed in May 2025
Bryce can do it all. I'm pretty handy but when I'm in over my head I always call Monument Custom Builders to bail me out. He has done an excellent siding job for me as well as a custom closet build. He's honest and fair. He shows up and gets the job done right. If you get around in Rapid City...
Monument Custom Builders, LLC
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Reviewed in July 2024
They install rocks , sod and fence in our back yard and did absolutely high quality work,thanks guys
Spark Landscaping
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Reviewed in February 2024
JM&M CONSTRUCTION DID AN EXCEPTION JOB ON ALL ASPECTS OF THIS PROJECT. THERE EMPLOYEES ARE VERY PROFESSIONAL AND SKILLED AND I WOULD GIVE THEM 5 STARS AND HIGHLY RECOMMEND THEM TO ANYONE THAT NEEDS A COMPANY THAT WILL STAY ON THE JOB TILL COMPLETE AND NOT JUMP FROM ONE PROJECT TO ANOTHER.
JM&M Construction LLC
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Reviewed in February 2024
The guys who did the work were very courteous. They made strong efforts to prevent limb damage to any structures and fences, cleaned up thoroughly after work completed and were very personable. They asked for an evaluation of worked performed (trimming limbs from a large tree that had not been...
American Tree Company
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Reviewed in August 2023
I recently had the pleasure of working with David and his team at Motif Properties for a deck renovation and some new electrical work in my home. From the very beginning, it was clear that they shared the same values that I champion - putting people first and approaching the task with genuine...
Motif Properties LLC
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Reviewed in January 2023
I worked as the in-house project manager for the Black Hills Playhouse on this project. USA Roofing did an excellent job re-roofing every single structure on our campus. Great quality work across the board. Highly recommend.
USA Roofing LLC
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Reviewed in October 2022
The job went well, there were multiple challenges structurally and Jeremy and the J.O.A.T. team handled them well. Jeremy was super responsive and kept his commitments Till the job was finished. I would reccomend them and use them again.
JOAT SERVICESLLC
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Reviewed in November 2021
Very difficult to get the scope of the project in the categories above. I needed all of the floor joists and framing removed from an area in my basement, and replacement flooring installed. Tommy and his crew made short work of the demolition, and cleanup. The underlayment and new structure...
Tommy Neiffer Construction
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Reviewed in May 2020
Built our garage without a permit. Did not get required inspections done. The only inspection performed was after I contacted the county and they informed me that there was no permit. They currently have 2 failed permits that were never resolved. The garage floor is a disaster. Horrible rough...
Wolter Construction LLC
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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

Cathedral ceilings make a statement in your home, but at the cost of your attic space. Normal attics are wide open, which allows warm air to move around and exit your home. Because of this, cathedral ceilings make your home less energy efficient and put your ceiling at risk of venting issues if you’re not careful. They also reduce your attic storage space, potentially cause an echo, and even make it harder to change a light bulb.

You should pick steel for your new support beam for a few reasons. While steel is more expensive than other materials, such as laminated veneer lumber or glulam, it offers the following benefits:

Fire-resistant
Unaffected by pests
Longer-lasting
Stronger against water damage (when galvanized against rust)

In framing, studs are placed at 16-inch intervals to coincide with the typical spacing of wall materials such as drywall or plywood. This spacing is called "on-center" and is necessary for maintaining structural stability and efficient use of materials. The 16-inch spacing also helps to distribute the weight evenly across the building's structure. For those looking to cut material costs and improve energy efficiency, 24-inch stud spacing can be employed through a method called "advanced framing". This requires careful planning and adherence to local building codes to ensure structural integrity.

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

Yes, all states require structural engineers to carry the proper license, with specifics determined by each state. You can use Angi’s state licensing tool to confirm that the structural engineer you’re considering holds the required licensing to tackle your job. Hiring an unlicensed structural engineer will not only cause issues with permits but it could also lead to an unsafe building. The cost of a professional, licensed, and experienced engineer is well worth the investment.

The Summerset, SD 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

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 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.
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.
Rachel Hoffman
•
Apr 5, 2026Apr 5, 2026
Structural Engineer vs. Architect: Their Differences and Why You Need Both
Do you have an upcoming construction project and aren’t sure whether hiring a structural engineer vs an architect is better? Find out here.
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.