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>

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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 do contractors cut a doorway in a concrete block wall?

• <div><p>First, most contractors will have a structural engineer create a report and plan for your project to ensure it&rsquo;s safe to cut into the load-bearing wall. The contractor will then excavate around the wall, if necessary, measure the opening&mdash;allowing for additional space to fit and level the door, and then cut the doorway out. They will likely install a steel lintel as a header over the door for support. Once the doorway is cut out, they&rsquo;ll demolish the concrete using sledge hammers and masonry chisels, clean up the surrounding concrete, and seal around the door with masonry mortar. </p></div>

Q: What factors affect assembly costs?

• <div><p>Costs depend on furniture type, size, complexity, and whether additional modifications are needed.</p></div>

Q: How do I know if I need a structural engineer?

• <div><p>You need to <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-hire-a-structural-engineer.htm">hire a structural engineer</a> when building or modifying any component with a structural load in your home. Common situations where you would need a structural engineer include home inspections when buying or selling a home, investigating possible issues with your foundation, beams, load-bearing walls, or chimneys, breaking ground on a new home or structure on your property, and renovating an old part of your home that could threaten any structural integrity. Home additions and bump-outs also require an engineer. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Fitchburg, WI

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Fitchburg, WI 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 Fitchburg, WI 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, 2026

Reviewed in February 2026
We hired Sanoy Roofing and Construction for a full custom home build and couldn’t be happier with the result. They were professional throughout the process, communicated clearly, and kept the project moving with a structured timeline and consistent updates. The craftsmanship and attention to...
Sanoy Roofing & Construction, LLC
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Reviewed in March 2025
We hired Bruce Freeman to create a new vision for the kitchen of our recently purchased 1960's home. Our project was complicated by potential structural issues with moving weight-bearing walls and a stairwell. As a former builder himself, Bruce had the knowledge to know what was and wasn't...
B Freeman Design
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Reviewed in April 2020
Bob gave me the best bid, came within a few days and got the job done in less than a 1/2 hour. He must be an engineer because he figured our how to safely move the big 5 person hot tub with just two guys. Totally satisfied.
RW Cleaning Services
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Reviewed in November 2019
Don is great at what he does. He has great customer service skills (prompt, professional, great communication skills, responsive, did exactly what he said he would do, etc.), has an awesome personality, and he did an excellent job. He is very thorough and checked every structure on the property...
Don Hopkins Home Inspections, LLC
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Reviewed in September 2019
First -- I'll know the quality of the work next time it rains. The gentleman who bid the project was great, and all else wasn't. ) All initially went well until the day they stripped the roof off. I recieved a call telling me the General Manager wanted me to stop by the home as he needed to...
Reliable Roofing Company
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Reviewed in December 2018
Phenomenal service. He built a Garden shed for me. On other occasions he has repaired a wall, re-engineered a truss to extend a bathroom, and also tiled and laid in a wooden floor for me. Magnificent work.
Williams Property Solutions
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Reviewed in June 2018
Excellent ! The inspector got to the property prior to my early arrival and had already started on the roof. She had great experience and knowledge of building techniques and current codes. her eye for detail was very complete and exposed some 'potential structural' problems I had not even seen;...
Four Corners Home Inspection
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Reviewed in February 2016
S&R Remodeling did a fabulous job! From the original meeting to the final details, every aspect was handled quickly, easily, and with excellent professionalism. The work crew arrived on time each day and fully prepared for the many twists and turns involved in renovating an old structure. <br...
S & R Remodeling
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Find Structural engineers in Fitchburg

Sears Home Improvement Products

3.7(

1,712

)

Serving Fitchburg, WI and surrounding areas

In business since 1886

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"I had to have them back out and redo the tile. We've already replaced the nuts and bolts in the drawers that were falling out."

Recommended by74%of homeowners

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Copperhead Contracting

3.7(

)

Serving Fitchburg, WI and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

"We hired Copperhead Contracting to help us remodel our kitchen and bathroom along with replacing our roof. The whole team was very knowledgeable and helpful from start to finish. They provided us with a wide variety of samples and gave us all the available options to make our bathroom and kitchen work for us! They made sure to show up on time everyday there and stayed in contact with us throughout the process. We will be using Copperhead Contracting for all our future restoration needs and reccomend them to all our friends and family!"

Recommended by75%of homeowners

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Civil Fox Engineering, LLC

New to Angi

Serving Fitchburg, WI and surrounding areas

In business since 2017

Free estimates

We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We are experts in our trade and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business!

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Fauerbach Surveying & Engineering

New to Angi

Serving Fitchburg, WI and surrounding areas

In business since 1994

Fauerbach Surveying & Engineering is a client-focused company that strives to ensure the highest level of customer satisfaction.

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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

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.

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.

First, most contractors will have a structural engineer create a report and plan for your project to ensure it’s safe to cut into the load-bearing wall. The contractor will then excavate around the wall, if necessary, measure the opening—allowing for additional space to fit and level the door, and then cut the doorway out. They will likely install a steel lintel as a header over the door for support. Once the doorway is cut out, they’ll demolish the concrete using sledge hammers and masonry chisels, clean up the surrounding concrete, and seal around the door with masonry mortar.

Costs depend on furniture type, size, complexity, and whether additional modifications are needed.

You need to hire a structural engineer when building or modifying any component with a structural load in your home. Common situations where you would need a structural engineer include home inspections when buying or selling a home, investigating possible issues with your foundation, beams, load-bearing walls, or chimneys, breaking ground on a new home or structure on your property, and renovating an old part of your home that could threaten any structural integrity. Home additions and bump-outs also require an engineer.

The Fitchburg, WI 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.
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
•
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.
Em Norton
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Apr 10, 2026Apr 10, 2026
Everything to Know About LVL Beams
What is an LVL beam? Read about LVL beams to determine if this material is safe and suitable for your project.
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.
Em Norton
•
May 5, 2026May 5, 2026
How to Hire a Structural Engineer: Complete Guide
It can be hard to choose the right pro for any job, but it matters. Learn how to hire a structural engineer who'll get the job done right from start to finish.