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>

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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: If you do the work yourself, how can you be sure your home is still structurally sound?

• <div><p>If you intend to do the majority of the work yourself, you can <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-architect-cost.htm">pay to hire an architect</a> or a structural engineer to ensure your home remains structurally sound. They can help with the planning to make sure everything is up to code and safe for your family. On the other hand, if you&rsquo;re not sure your home will be completely safe when you&rsquo;ve completed the project, let a pro do the job.</p></div>

Q: What are the typical warning signs of a structural issue in my home?

• <div><p>Indications include cracks in walls, uneven floors, and sticking doors or windows that suggest foundation movements.</p></div>

Q: How deep does a monolithic slab need to be?

• <div><p>The depth of any foundation style depends on your climate and how deep the frost line is, as building code requires that the footers of a foundation&mdash;which are built into a monolithic slab&mdash;sit at least a foot below the frost line. At the southern tip of Florida, for example, a monolithic slab foundation would only need to sit 12 inches under the soil at the widest parts. On some parts of the Canadian border, the frost line is 100 inches, which would mean a minimum of 112 inches, which is prohibitively deep for a monolithic slab.</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 Oconto, WI

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Oconto, 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 Oconto, 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 April 22, 2026

Reviewed in April 2026
Working with HOMEBASE Design & Build was a smooth and professional experience from start to finish. The partners were directly involved throughout the project and kept everything well organized with clear milestones. Their communication was excellent, and the craftsmanship on our remodel...
HOMEBASE Design and Build
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Reviewed in November 2024
We are very happy with the work completed and the communication.
Solace Property Solutions, LLC
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Reviewed in July 2024
Abrahamsons did the plumbing for our new basement bathroom. They gave us good advice on what products would fit our needs the best. They were on time for all appointments and reasonable in their timeline. We really appreciated that they quickly answered our texts and were very accommodating...
Abrahamson Plumbing
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Reviewed in January 2023
Badger State did a great job on our roof replacement. It was even done earlier than we expected!
Badger State Roofing
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Reviewed in November 2022
Did what we wanted..didn't try to get us to do whole roof, just repair for now. Great job!
North Shield Roofing LLC.
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Reviewed in August 2022
The crew was prompt and thorough on a very windy day. Even with wind conditions making it impossible to work on windows from a ladder they were still able to finish the upgrade in less time than estimated. The staff also worked with us to get pricing and payment schedule that worked for us.
Mad City Windows & Baths
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Reviewed in August 2021
Joel from Ticos Roofing did a wonderful job of keeping us informed on the project from beginning to end . A real professional and great person to deal with . I will highly recommend Ticos roofing to family and friends .
Ticos Roofing Solutions
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Reviewed in June 2021
Great! They took care of any bad wood that they found under the shingles and replaced it. Cleanup was good and the crew was friendly and efficient.
Armor Shield Metal Roofing
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Reviewed in April 2021
Tara and her crew are always professional and amazing at what they do. I just had a moveout service performed and I am completely blown away with how my previously cluttered apartment looks! I have used them also for a car detailing, and would 100% recommend them for any of your cleaning needs!
Extreme Clean Detailing LLC
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Find Structural engineers in Oconto

Civil Fox Engineering, LLC

New to Angi

Serving Oconto, 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

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.

If you intend to do the majority of the work yourself, you can pay to hire an architect or a structural engineer to ensure your home remains structurally sound. They can help with the planning to make sure everything is up to code and safe for your family. On the other hand, if you’re not sure your home will be completely safe when you’ve completed the project, let a pro do the job.

Indications include cracks in walls, uneven floors, and sticking doors or windows that suggest foundation movements.

The depth of any foundation style depends on your climate and how deep the frost line is, as building code requires that the footers of a foundation—which are built into a monolithic slab—sit at least a foot below the frost line. At the southern tip of Florida, for example, a monolithic slab foundation would only need to sit 12 inches under the soil at the widest parts. On some parts of the Canadian border, the frost line is 100 inches, which would mean a minimum of 112 inches, which is prohibitively deep for a monolithic slab.

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 Oconto, WI 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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May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Main House Support Beam? [2026 Data]
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Timothy Moore
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May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Install an LVL Beam? [2026 Data]
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Alison Kasch
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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.
Rachel Hoffman
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Mar 6, 2026Mar 6, 2026
Structural Inspection vs. Home Inspection: Which Is Right for You?
Knowing the difference between structural inspections vs. home inspections is easy with this convenient guide. Learn when you might get each one done.
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.
Rachel Hoffman
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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.