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>

Do I need a structural engineer to knock down a wall?

• <div><p>In many areas, advice from a structural engineer or an architect will be required by your building department before you can remove a wall, but even if it’s not necessary, it’s a good idea. Accidentally removing a load-bearing wall—even if a general contractor advises that it’s safe—can cause major structural damage, putting you and your family at risk and potentially costing thousands or tens of thousands of dollars in property damage.</p></div>

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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>

Q: What are the key elements of quality framing work?

• <div><p>Accurate measurements, sturdy materials, and seamless integration with other structures.</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: How long does a structural assessment typically take?

• <div><p>A few hours for inspection, with a detailed report following in a week.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Lafayette, VA

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Lafayette, VA 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 Lafayette, VA 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 17, 2025

Reviewed in February 2025
We can’t recommend highly enough Signature Structures/Bill Birdlebough and Luke Schindler. They are professional and their attention to detail was truly impressive. We had a half bath and master bath remodeled. Signature Structures communicated with us throughout the project. They listened to...
Signature Structures
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Reviewed in December 2020
We hired Mighty Dad in late spring/early summer of 2020 to do the construction part of a deck remodeling job (plus the last not-insignificant demolition step that we didn't finish). He replaced the old weathered wood planking with composite material and railing, and worked around some...
Mighty Dad Flooring & Home Repair
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Reviewed in May 2020
This company is relatively new and being run by an engineering student at Virginia Tech. My deck was the first he ever built. Ethan ran into challenges that more experienced builders would have known about such as building codes for decks in Blacksburg. It was a much more difficult project...
MK Fencing and Decking -
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Reviewed in February 2018
Jeff and his crew arrived on time. Jeff quickly assessed the job and gave me an estimate. This was a very small job and more cosmetic than structural. They repaired 2 bricks and motor that had fallen out under the threshold of the back door. I was very pleased with their work and the end result....
J & D Masonry LLC
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Reviewed in March 2017
We had heard of Rey's work from friends who loved the work he did for them. We contacted him and he came by soon after and showed us options of what we could do. We were having flooring replaced in our great room and hallway. We ended up going with white oak flooring that we had finished with...
Rey Hardwood Floor
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Reviewed in August 2015
Most of the time Mike is involved with remodeling. Mike will tackle many different types of jobs, inside and outside. He never covers up rot or other problems when he finds any. Rather he contacts me and photographs what he has found. For years I have told him that we trust him to do what needs...
Schwab Remodeling
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Reviewed in November 2014
There were a lot of hurdles due to the original builders. Mike and lou moved all of the plumbing. That involved moving the pressure tank and water heater. They had to cut up the concrete floor to move drains for tub, shower, toilet and vanity. They had to reframe the entire area 1500sf., then...
Appalachian Building Concepts
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Reviewed in June 2014
They had to rebuild structural areas due to water damage and got all the work done before a major storm hit. The team was professional and hard working. The quality of the work is good and I'm very pleased. <br />
All-In-One Home Solutions LLC
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Reviewed in January 2014
If you don’t know by now then let me tell you that Roanoke and Roanoke County have a set of approved guidelines that they have adopted when it comes to the construction of a “New” deck where there is an existing deck. If your deck was built more than 5 years ago and you have a band board...
Ronnie LaBrie General Contracting
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Reviewed in December 2013
We intended for the carport to be a simple structure, but due to the side we needed a foundation. Well, it sort of grew from there. While the carport was more involved than I had anticipated, the final product is very nice and a much welcome addition. It blends well with the house, does not...
Shelter Alternatives, Inc.
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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

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

Accurate measurements, sturdy materials, and seamless integration with other structures.

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.

In many areas, advice from a structural engineer or an architect will be required by your building department before you can remove a wall, but even if it’s not necessary, it’s a good idea. Accidentally removing a load-bearing wall—even if a general contractor advises that it’s safe—can cause major structural damage, putting you and your family at risk and potentially costing thousands or tens of thousands of dollars in property damage.

A few hours for inspection, with a detailed report following in a week.

The Lafayette, VA 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

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.
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.
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.
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.
Rachel Hoffman
•
May 2, 2026May 2, 2026
Structural Steel Beam vs. Wood Beam: Which Is Right for You?
Structural steel and wood beams ensure your house is structurally sound. Learn the difference between steel and wood beams and how to choose the right one.
Rachel Hoffman
•
Apr 4, 2026Apr 4, 2026
Who Can Check if a Wall Is Load-Bearing?
Before removing a wall, make sure it’s not load-bearing. Learn the benefits of hiring a structural engineer to check if a wall is load-bearing.