Is it safe to replace a load-bearing wall with a beam?

• <div><p>It’s sometimes safe to replace a load-bearing wall with a beam, but you need a structural engineer to sign off on the project. You’ll also likely have to upgrade to a steel I-beam or another material that’s stronger than wood to maintain the level of support you need without the wall underneath.</p></div>

Should I repair or replace wood following termite damage?

• <div><p>Not all wood that’s been softened by termites needs to be replaced. You may be able to salvage wood using a wood hardener instead of replacing beams. However, you’ll need to hire a structural engineer to assess the damage and the overall stability of the wood before making a replacement plan.</p></div>

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Q: Is it safe to replace a load-bearing wall with a beam?

• <div><p>It&rsquo;s sometimes safe to replace a load-bearing wall with a beam, but you need a structural engineer to sign off on the project. You&rsquo;ll also likely have to upgrade to a steel I-beam or another material that&rsquo;s stronger than wood to maintain the level of support you need without the wall underneath.</p></div>

Q: Can professionals match repairs to existing frame styles?

• <div><p>Yes, ensuring seamless integration with the rest of the window unit.</p></div>

Q: Should I repair or replace wood following termite damage?

• <div><p>Not all wood that&rsquo;s been softened by termites needs to be replaced. You may be able to salvage wood using a wood hardener instead of replacing beams. However, you&rsquo;ll need to hire a structural engineer to assess the damage and the overall stability of the wood before making a replacement plan.</p></div>

Q: What are common issues with window frames that professionals resolve?

• <div><p>Rotting wood, frame misalignment, or damaged seals often require attention.</p></div>

Q: How do I know if a support beam needs replacing?

• <div><p>The best way to know if your beams still provide adequate support is to consult a structural engineer. Structural beams can crack and even sag over time but may still be structurally sound. Keep an eye out for signs of issues in your home, such as sagging floors or ceilings, major cracks in your ceiling and walls, or signs of water damage around a weight-bearing wall.</p></div>

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*The Angi rating for Contractor Service companies in , is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Contractor Service needs.

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Last update on January 16, 2026

Reviewed in April 2023
Can I give 10 stars?!? Absolutely amazing carpentry and customer service.
America's Floor Source
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Reviewed in April 2023
Window Depot did an amazing job on my deck. I wasnt sure what I wanted to do, but their composite decking was affordable and will last a long time. I am excited to have family over, and I am no longer embarrassed by my backyard. Jeff and the ground crew were polite, respectful, and caring for...
Window Depot USA of Central Ohio
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Reviewed in May 2022
When we read the reviews of Jeff Prude’s work from A-1 Quality Carpentry, we thought they sounded too good to be true. Words like superlative craftsmanship, professional responsiveness, and conscientious attention to customer service are simply inadequate to describe the quality of Mr. Prude’s...
A-1 Quality Carpentry
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Reviewed in July 2020
I requested competitive bids form multiple contractors. After research, I felt confident in the consultation I received from Paul at Polar Bear. I purchased an A/C system from him, and I would use him again in the future, and I recommend this company to others. I feel Paul is a straight...
Polar Bear Air
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Reviewed in March 2020
I hired Window Worx for a variety of tasks: 1) replacement of rotten wood surrounding picture Windows and the window sill; 2) replacement of wood supports of my deck; and 3) restoration of a portico over my back door that included replacement of rotted wood and fixing the flashing. Work was done...
Window Worx's
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Reviewed in November 2019
BJ Trim Carpentry rescued me in the middle of a do-it-yourself project. I found I needed more expertise than I had...and more TOOLS! BJ Trim Carpentry responded quickly and completed what I needed expertly, politely and with a little humor!
B.J. Trim Carpentry, Inc.
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Reviewed in July 2012
I have lived in my house for 15 years. For the past 10 years I've been trying to figure out what to do about the door from the dining room into the garage. The house was built in the early 1950's and they used a 28" wide interior hollow wood door in that location. It is a difficult spot because...
Affordable Interior Finish Carpentry & Floors
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Reviewed in November 2010
I have called upon Sterling before in the past and he's very professional and reliable. He shows up on time prepared and ready to go to work. He and a co-worker came over tore down what was left of the fence, cleared some shrubbery away, dug the post holes, poured the concrete and put up the...
STERLING THE HANDYMAN
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Reviewed in September 2008
Jeff did the initial estimate which was pretty accurate. They were able to work with our tight deadline. Bob did the actual work at our house. After we removed the carpet we found sizable stains, they warned they would not come out (old pet stains from the previous owners). Many of the smaller...
Hardwood Elegance Flooring Co
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Unfinished Carpentry questions, answered by experts

It’s sometimes safe to replace a load-bearing wall with a beam, but you need a structural engineer to sign off on the project. You’ll also likely have to upgrade to a steel I-beam or another material that’s stronger than wood to maintain the level of support you need without the wall underneath.

Yes, ensuring seamless integration with the rest of the window unit.

Not all wood that’s been softened by termites needs to be replaced. You may be able to salvage wood using a wood hardener instead of replacing beams. However, you’ll need to hire a structural engineer to assess the damage and the overall stability of the wood before making a replacement plan.

Rotting wood, frame misalignment, or damaged seals often require attention.

The best way to know if your beams still provide adequate support is to consult a structural engineer. Structural beams can crack and even sag over time but may still be structurally sound. Keep an eye out for signs of issues in your home, such as sagging floors or ceilings, major cracks in your ceiling and walls, or signs of water damage around a weight-bearing wall.

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