Is it worth getting a structural engineer?

• <div><p>If you’re building new construction or adding onto your existing home, hiring a structural engineer is not only worth it but it’s probably required by your local building department. Structural engineers will ensure you aren’t making your home unsafe in the building process, which is crucial from a safety perspective but also a legal one. It’s also worth hiring a structural engineer if you’re making changes to structural components, like removing a load-bearing wall.</p></div>

Get matched with top structural engineers in Pearisburg, VA

Q: Can I cut or drill LVL beams?

• <div><p>It is not recommended to cut or drill into LVL (laminated veneer lumber) beams. As major structural components of a home, their composite structure can be compromised by alterations, which can weaken them and lead to cracking over time. If you must make modifications to an LVL beam, it is crucial to consult a structural engineer or general contractor first. A professional can advise on whether it's safe and provide specifics on the appropriate bit size, depth, and directionality for any necessary drilling.</p></div>

Q: Are walls on the top floor load-bearing?

• <div><p>Yes, walls on the top floor can be load-bearing if stacked on the floor&rsquo;s foundation.</p></div>

Q: Will a bank finance a house with foundation problems?

• <div><p>It depends on the bank and the extent of the issue. Some banks will lend against homes with minor foundation damage, but most won&rsquo;t if the issue is structural since the home acts as collateral for the mortgage. Banks that offer renovation loans might still finance a home with structural problems. More minor issues like settling cracks and intermittent problems with humidity are unlikely to stop a bank from financing. </p></div>

Q: Is it worth getting a structural engineer?

• <div><p>If you&rsquo;re building new construction or adding onto your existing home, hiring a structural engineer is not only worth it but it&rsquo;s probably required by your local building department. Structural engineers will ensure you aren&rsquo;t making your home unsafe in the building process, which is crucial from a safety perspective but also a legal one. It&rsquo;s also worth hiring a structural engineer if you&rsquo;re making changes to structural components, like removing a load-bearing wall.</p></div>

Q: Can I do my own structural calculations?

• <div><p>No, it&rsquo;s not legal for unlicensed individuals to conduct structural calculations for buildings or building repairs. Not only do licensing requirements prevent DIYers from tackling this project, but mistakes can also be extremely dangerous and put your property and anyone inside or near it at risk of severe injury or even death. You should always hire a licensed and certified local structural engineer to make structural calculations.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Pearisburg, VA

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Pearisburg, 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 Pearisburg, 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 January 06, 2021

Reviewed in January 2021
My wife and I started out needing someone to come in and fix a leaky tiled shower. We would need to retile the shower. When we started planning the repair with Mike, he offered some very creative ideas, indicating that things we had not considered were possible and doable. He first created a...
MTC Remodeling
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Reviewed in August 2019
Mike Tinker is one of the best troubleshooters that I have ever met, including those I have worked with in over 40 years of my work as a mechanical engineer in industry and consulting. He not only follows best-practices, but he understands older standards of wiring as well. I will certainly...
Tinker Electric
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Reviewed in October 2013
Over the past ten years Crockett Home <br /> Improvement has done five jobs totaling $91,000. for us including replacing the <br /> floors and supporting structure in two rooms of a farm cottage, finishing the <br /> lower level of a split foyer home, extensive remodeling and expansion of an ...
Crockett Home Improvement Inc
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Reviewed in October 2012
After having my "Service Engine Soon" light come on in my 2004 Ford Explorer and the engine began running rough with little power, my husband called Terry and he quickly had an appt open for assessing my vehicle. After determining the problem, Terry called my husband with the estimate and after...
Pembroke Auto Service LLC
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Reviewed in August 2012
Everything arrived on time, installation was professional and tidy. The Kahrs (made in Sweden) engineered hardwood floor is gorgeous. We are very happy with it, and plan to do other rooms in the future.
CARPET SHOP
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Reviewed in September 2011
I worked with Tim personally on the site survey. He provided multiple quotes covering all the options, to step me up the efficiency (SEER and HSPF) scale. Ultimately the decision was budget based. Tim and his backoffice crew (led by Pam) helped get me inforamation on available rebates from...
A-1 Heating And Cooling
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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

It is not recommended to cut or drill into LVL (laminated veneer lumber) beams. As major structural components of a home, their composite structure can be compromised by alterations, which can weaken them and lead to cracking over time. If you must make modifications to an LVL beam, it is crucial to consult a structural engineer or general contractor first. A professional can advise on whether it's safe and provide specifics on the appropriate bit size, depth, and directionality for any necessary drilling.

Yes, walls on the top floor can be load-bearing if stacked on the floor’s foundation.

It depends on the bank and the extent of the issue. Some banks will lend against homes with minor foundation damage, but most won’t if the issue is structural since the home acts as collateral for the mortgage. Banks that offer renovation loans might still finance a home with structural problems. More minor issues like settling cracks and intermittent problems with humidity are unlikely to stop a bank from financing.

If you’re building new construction or adding onto your existing home, hiring a structural engineer is not only worth it but it’s probably required by your local building department. Structural engineers will ensure you aren’t making your home unsafe in the building process, which is crucial from a safety perspective but also a legal one. It’s also worth hiring a structural engineer if you’re making changes to structural components, like removing a load-bearing wall.

No, it’s not legal for unlicensed individuals to conduct structural calculations for buildings or building repairs. Not only do licensing requirements prevent DIYers from tackling this project, but mistakes can also be extremely dangerous and put your property and anyone inside or near it at risk of severe injury or even death. You should always hire a licensed and certified local structural engineer to make structural calculations.

The Pearisburg, VA homeowners’ guide to structural engineering services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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Alison Kasch
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Apr 4, 2026Apr 4, 2026
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How Much Does It Cost to Install an LVL Beam? [2026 Data]
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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.
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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.