Are foundation walls load-bearing?

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

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Q: What types of projects require a structural engineer’s expertise?

• <div><p>Structural engineers are necessary for projects involving alterations to load-bearing structures, foundation work, and compliance with safety standards. This includes home expansions, retaining walls, and significant repairs that impact a property's integrity.</p></div>

Q: Is a structural engineer the same as a foundation engineer?

• <div><p>Structural engineers specialize in all aspects of a building&rsquo;s structural integrity, including the foundation. Foundation engineering is a critical part of structural engineering, so structural engineers are experts in foundation design. Many foundation repair companies either have a structural engineer on staff or one they work closely with, so be sure you look for that when deciding <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/who-do-i-hire-foundation-repair.htm">who to hire for foundation repair</a>.</p></div>

Q: What factors affect building costs?

• <div><p>The costs depend on the type of wood, labor, roofing material, permits, and whether additional storage or enclosed walls are included.</p></div>

Q: Is it okay to drill into a load-bearing beam?

• <div><p>You should avoid drilling or cutting into load-bearing beams because removing material will weaken it and increase the risk of structural damage or even collapse. If you do need to drill into a load-bearing beam, speak with a structural engineer first to discuss where it&rsquo;s safest to drill and the width and depth of the bit that&rsquo;s safe to use.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Wolcott, VT

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Wolcott, VT 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 Wolcott, VT 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 June 09, 2025

Reviewed in June 2025
It went very well. Robert removed and trashed the Empire, took out the Rinnai and sealed up the wall where it was installed. The Rinnai was re-installed in my shop, and gas supplied. There was a fair amount of re-engineering of both the gas supply and the physical mounting of the unit, and all...
Robert Rathbone Handyman
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Reviewed in May 2025
John did several projects for me, both small and large. Some of them include making my breakfast area into a den, installing kitchen pantry cabinets, fixing electrical work, hanging pictures, fixing drywall, and installing ceiling fans. He is professional, reliable and always does high quality...
JSFM
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Reviewed in January 2024
James came and installed flooring, and set up some hanging shelves on my concrete wall. He was very knowledgeable and got the work done efficiently and quickly! I will definitely be hiring him for my next project soon.
Bognar Home Solutions LLC
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Reviewed in October 2023
Mangan Excavation was fantastic with doing the work in a timely manner and was honest with reasonable rates. The work performed was efficient and tidy. I am very pleased with them.
Mangan Excavation
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Reviewed in September 2023
Kennison Construction was efficient and very responsive to my requests. They actually completed the installation of 5 windows sooner than expected. The finished project looks great! Cost is in line with industry standards. I highly recommend!
Kennison Construction, LLC
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Reviewed in October 2022
These guys get it done! Very happy with my concrete! Will definitely use them again!
dtatroconstruction LLC
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Reviewed in September 2022
Although not done for me directly, I was witness from start to completion, Josh planned and prepared the demolition of of the existing floor, made necessary improvements and laid the new floor with fine attention to detail resulting in a professional finish. A jack of all trades he is with...
Josh's Handyman Service
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Reviewed in August 2022
The crew came out and got it done fast. No issues. Came, molded, and slung them on. Would recommend
Gutter Solutions
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Reviewed in August 2021
Andy was great - put in a gravel driveway and pad. Communication and quality of work was great. Would recommend for any excavation work.
Andy Naylor Excavation
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Reviewed in October 2020
This is not a reputable business! The shoddy work, overcharging on invoices and lack of integrity are completely unprofessional and unacceptable. After paying @ $140k for roofing and structural repairs, the roof is leaking in multiple places and Mike Scamel does not return texts or calls. I...
Central Vermont Construction Inc
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Find Structural engineers in Wolcott

PERCH Engineering, PLC

4.8(

)

Serving Wolcott, VT and surrounding areas

In business since 2014

Free estimates

"Scott was very prompt in his response. He responded to my home advisor inquiry almost immediately, came to the job site quickly, and went above and beyond the call of duty accessing a very difficult crawlspace to conduct a thorough analysis of the issue. He is professional, courteous and kind. I highly recommend Scott and his company, PERCH engineering."

Response time1 day

Response rate88%

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

Structural engineers are necessary for projects involving alterations to load-bearing structures, foundation work, and compliance with safety standards. This includes home expansions, retaining walls, and significant repairs that impact a property's integrity.

Structural engineers specialize in all aspects of a building’s structural integrity, including the foundation. Foundation engineering is a critical part of structural engineering, so structural engineers are experts in foundation design. Many foundation repair companies either have a structural engineer on staff or one they work closely with, so be sure you look for that when deciding who to hire for foundation repair.

The costs depend on the type of wood, labor, roofing material, permits, and whether additional storage or enclosed walls are included.

Yes. Foundation walls are always load-bearing.

You should avoid drilling or cutting into load-bearing beams because removing material will weaken it and increase the risk of structural damage or even collapse. If you do need to drill into a load-bearing beam, speak with a structural engineer first to discuss where it’s safest to drill and the width and depth of the bit that’s safe to use.

The Wolcott, VT 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
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May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Main House Support Beam? [2026 Data]
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Apr 4, 2026Apr 4, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Remove a Load-Bearing Wall? [2026 Data]
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How Much Does a Structural Engineer Cost to Hire? [2026 Data]
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6 Tips on How to Build an Earthquake-Proof House
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Kate Fann
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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.
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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.