Are foundation walls load-bearing?

• <div><p>Yes. Foundation walls are always load-bearing.</p></div>

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 Livingston, TN

Q: For which type of foundation cracking should a structural engineer be recommended?

• <div><p>The <a href="https://www.nahb.org/">National Association of Home Builders</a> requires repair of any foundation crack of more than one quarter of an inch, although local regulations may vary. In general, any visible crack that is growing in size, allowing water through, or that you have just noticed, is a good reason to call a structural engineer. Cracks can be a sign of a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/sinking-foundation.htm">sinking foundation</a>, so an inspection is a good idea for your peace of mind.</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: How thick are LVL beams?

• <div><p>The standard thickness for an LVL beam is between <b>1.75 inches and 7 inches</b>. However, you can order LVL beams in non-standard sizes as well. When you work with a contractor, they can source beams that are the appropriate size for your project for you after assessing your blueprints.</p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your structural engineering project in Livingston, TN?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Livingston, TN

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Livingston, TN 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 Livingston, TN 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 25, 2025

Reviewed in February 2025
They did a great job removing a fallen tree and debris from our yard. Hard working and professional.
Close Construction & Excavation
Request a quote
Reviewed in October 2024
I had multiple bids and I went with the most economical for my budget. The owner offered to match the lower bid but I had already committed to the other company. The owner & staff were quite professional and courteous. I would feel comfortable hiring them and or recommending them to others
Priority Projects
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2024
Very professional, on time, nice workmanship, I will hire him again for other electrical needs
Hardwire Enterprises
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2024
EXCELLENT!!! Steven Harris and his co-worker, Ernie, were great! They painted the entire interior of our 1850 sq ft home in record time and it was done impeccably! We are very pleased. Thank you both!
Harris Home Painting
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2023
Family roofing was prompt, delivered an excellent job. If youâ re looking for professional work - hire them.
Family Roofing Co.
Request a quote
Reviewed in May 2023
Good quality work! Very friendly
Young Improvements, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in February 2023
5 star job in every way. Installed a pressure regulator, and a water heater expansion tank. Repaired some very difficult to find leaks in a shower stall that were due poor work by the builder. Cameron is a very good worker with a strong work ethic . I was very pleased with the his work ....
Bernhardy Plumbing
Request a quote
Reviewed in April 2022
Pleasant people to work with. Welding job was good on my existing walkway I was worried about. Reliable and good value.....not overcharged to come out and work on the dock.
C&C Contractors
Request a quote
Reviewed in January 2022
This business group was fantastic in the work they have done, provided great customer service, and did an amazing job, I recommend this affordable company for all your plumbing needs.
H & V Development
Request a quote
Reviewed in December 2021
I called at noon & they trenched & installed 250 feet new water line in less than 24 hours. The installation was great. New local company & we know the family. They are great people & I trust them for all my future needs.
NPR Trenching Services
Request a quote

Find Structural engineers in Livingston

R4 Engineering, PLLC

4.9(

)

Serving Livingston, TN and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2009

Small jobs welcome

Offers commercial services

"great to work with would recommend to anyone in need of structural engineer"

Response time6 hrs

Response rate97%

Recommended by96%of homeowners

Request Quote

Infinity Engineering LLC

5.0(

)

Serving Livingston, TN and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2004

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"Mark was great! He was very thorough and helped us identify what most critically needed to be addressed in our home. Having him offer a neutral 3rd party opinion helped ease our minds regarding the various projects that need to be completed. Highly recommend."

After Showing Added Second Floor and New Porch

Before with One Story Section Extended Vertically

Response time2 days

Response rate88%

11 neighbors recently requested a quote

Request Quote

JM Structural Consulting LLC

New to Angi

Serving Livingston, TN and surrounding areas

In business since 2010

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

JM Structural Consulting LLC is a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity and treats your home as if it were our own. We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality, and customer service that we provide to meet the consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety, and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

Request Quote

Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

The National Association of Home Builders requires repair of any foundation crack of more than one quarter of an inch, although local regulations may vary. In general, any visible crack that is growing in size, allowing water through, or that you have just noticed, is a good reason to call a structural engineer. Cracks can be a sign of a sinking foundation, so an inspection is a good idea for your peace of mind.

Yes. Foundation walls are always load-bearing.

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.

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.

The standard thickness for an LVL beam is between 1.75 inches and 7 inches. However, you can order LVL beams in non-standard sizes as well. When you work with a contractor, they can source beams that are the appropriate size for your project for you after assessing your blueprints.

The Livingston, TN 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 a Structural Engineer Cost to Hire? [2026 Data]
The cost of a structural engineer is easily justifiable given the value they bring to the table. Use this guide to see what hiring your professional will total.
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.
Kate Fann
•
Mar 19, 2026Mar 19, 2026
Who Do You Hire to Knock Down a Wall?
Looking to open up your living space and need to remove a wall? Learn who to hire to knock down a wall, whether it's load-bearing or non-load-bearing.
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.