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 Lakewood, WI

Q: Are beams and joists the same?

• <div><p>No, beams are the primary load-bearers for flooring or roofing systems, and they distribute the weight of the structure to your foundational supports, while joists bear far less weight and distribute their loads to the beams. Beams are usually thicker and longer, and they have support posts or foundation walls beneath them for support.</p></div>

Q: Can engineers provide solutions for structural problems found during inspections?

• <div><p>Yes, they offer plans for repairs or reinforcements to address issues.</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: Why are studs 16 inches apart?

• <div><p>In framing, studs are placed at 16-inch intervals to coincide with the typical spacing of wall materials such as drywall or plywood. This spacing is called &quot;on-center&quot; and is necessary for maintaining structural stability and efficient use of materials. The 16-inch spacing also helps to distribute the weight evenly across the building's structure. For those looking to cut material costs and improve energy efficiency, 24-inch stud spacing can be employed through a method called &quot;advanced framing&quot;. This requires careful planning and adherence to local building codes to ensure structural integrity. </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>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Lakewood, WI

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Lakewood, 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 Lakewood, 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 October 16, 2024

Reviewed in October 2024
Hired UPServices to top some birches that overhung our family cabin. Dayne was terrific! Professional in every way. I recommend UPServices very highly!
DF Landworx
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Reviewed in June 2023
Sales rep Jon S. Great to work with him. The project manager Jose was outstanding, on the job regularly and responsive to my needs
Renown Roofing
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Reviewed in May 2023
They did a large basement remodel and the final project was excellent. They gave a very reasonable estimate and started promptly as promised. Throughout the project they were professional, courteous and mindfull of disruptions on the upper level. The work was top notch!
On Target Construction LLC
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Reviewed in May 2023
I really liked their ideas when we planned the remodel. The workers were hard working and very nice and respectful. I had multiple projects done by this company including a powder room, laundry, hallway, ceiling, backsplash, full basement update with full bathroom and addition of egress...
Grant Thompson Construction, Inc.
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Reviewed in November 2022
We are very satisfied with everything from start to finish. The crew showed up on time and finished the roof in one day. Would recommend Armor Shield.
Armor Shield Metal Roofing
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Reviewed in July 2022
Excellent. Tom was very professional and did exactly what was discussed in a very timely manner. Would highly recommend
Integrity Home Creations
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Reviewed in April 2022
They responded to our needs when we made an inquiry on a Sunday. They communicated well. They were polite. They got the job done in a very timely manner. We would definitely hire them again.
Illinois Sewer and Drain, Inc.
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Reviewed in August 2021
Lumber Jake's was easy to schedule and provided excellent service, even for hard-to-reach windows. I highly recommend!!
Lumber Jakes Window Cleaning Services
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Reviewed in August 2021
Caden’s a great worker. Tell him to do something, he does it. He shows up on time. He works hard everyday. Can’t ask for much more.
Caden Williams
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Reviewed in July 2021
Very knowledgeable and very helpful and very on the spot
The Blind Guy of Wisconsin, LLC
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Find Structural engineers in Lakewood

Civil Fox Engineering, LLC

New to Angi

Serving Lakewood, 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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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

No, beams are the primary load-bearers for flooring or roofing systems, and they distribute the weight of the structure to your foundational supports, while joists bear far less weight and distribute their loads to the beams. Beams are usually thicker and longer, and they have support posts or foundation walls beneath them for support.

Yes, they offer plans for repairs or reinforcements to address issues.

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

In framing, studs are placed at 16-inch intervals to coincide with the typical spacing of wall materials such as drywall or plywood. This spacing is called "on-center" and is necessary for maintaining structural stability and efficient use of materials. The 16-inch spacing also helps to distribute the weight evenly across the building's structure. For those looking to cut material costs and improve energy efficiency, 24-inch stud spacing can be employed through a method called "advanced framing". This requires careful planning and adherence to local building codes to ensure structural integrity.

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.

The Lakewood, WI homeowners’ guide to structural engineering services

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