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: How do I know if cracks are structural?

• <div><p>The best way to determine if ceiling cracks are structural is to hire a ceiling contractor to inspect the cracks and provide a professional opinion. That said, you might be able to make an educated guess based on the size and appearance of the crack. Larger cracks, cracks accompanied by sagging or discoloration, and cracks that travel from the ceiling down the walls are all signs of structural issues.</p></div>

Q: Why do retaining walls lean?

• <div><p>Failure to compact the soil during construction is the most common cause of leaning retaining walls. In addition, poor drainage can lead to excessive water pressure behind a retaining wall, pushing against it until it begins to move forward away from the soil it is holding back.</p></div>

Q: How much weight can 6 inches of concrete hold?

• <div><p>On average, 6 inches of concrete can hold around 150 pounds per square foot, but the exact weight that 6 inches of concrete can hold depends on factors such as the type of concrete, the reinforcement method, soil conditions below, and structural design. If you&rsquo;re concerned about the longevity of your concrete patio, walkway, or driveway, hire a professional to help you choose an appropriate concrete thickness and reinforcement method for your needs. </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 West Salem, WI

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in West Salem, 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 West Salem, 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 23, 2024

Reviewed in April 2024
Very dependable, spot on quality work, and 10/10 would recommend for both concrete and construction assistance. One of the best in the Midwest!
Coulee Construction and Concrete LLC
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Reviewed in April 2024
They came up with a wonderful plan to fix my cracked and chipped cement board siding, and did a professional job that exceeded all my expectations.
River Valley Remodelers, LLC
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Reviewed in January 2024
Dennis and Son did an excellent job on our basement remodeling. Listened to our needs and wants, help providing some suggestion and finished on-time and within budget. Highly recommended and will be using the again.
Hendrickson Remodeling, LLC
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Reviewed in August 2023
TMI construction is amazing ! They are by far the best company I have worked with . They were so attentive to all my needs . The young men were so professional and let me say something they work hard . I have worked with many companies but not one like this . I will always recommend TMI ! Thank...
TMI Construction
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Reviewed in February 2023
Marshview Construction and Woodworks provided excellent customer service. They really listened to us. Mitchell came out and listened, as we explained what it was we wanted and delivered exactly that! We were extremely pleased with the results and plan to use them again for future projects.
Marshview Construction & Woodworks LLC
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Reviewed in April 2022
Stockyard was the first of four businesses to reach out to me through Angie. In two full days Stockyard went from cut to clean-up on eight of our adult trees (minus the stump removal). Mark and his crew were very thoughtful in protecting our lawn and accommodating our needs thoroughly. Mark...
Stockyard Tree Service LLC
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Reviewed in November 2021
We had a massive project including foundation repair, waterproofing drainage system installation and crawl space encapsulation. We were very pleased with the work and the professionalism . We also appreciated everyoneâ s responses to all our questions before and during the project.
American Waterworks
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Reviewed in August 2021
Max changed out several 3 way dimmer switches, relocated a ceiling fan and installed a new one. Also installed 2 new in floor outlets. He did it with minimal damage to the existing structure. He was very good at cleaning up after his work.
Max Electric
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Reviewed in September 2019
We hired Everroux Engineering to assess the water and drainage issues on our property. Chris was approachable and thorough. His report gave us everything we needed to begin getting bids for the work that needed to be done. We highly recommend him.
Everroux Engineering
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Reviewed in April 2014
I am going in a couple days from now to have him and his welder take a look at the rust to determine how much labor this repair will take. He was very up front about how these type of repairs can get expensive in a hurry, depending on the structural integrity of the metal around the hole. I am...
Murphy's Frame and Axle
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Fauerbach Surveying & Engineering

New to Angi

Serving West Salem, 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

The best way to determine if ceiling cracks are structural is to hire a ceiling contractor to inspect the cracks and provide a professional opinion. That said, you might be able to make an educated guess based on the size and appearance of the crack. Larger cracks, cracks accompanied by sagging or discoloration, and cracks that travel from the ceiling down the walls are all signs of structural issues.

Failure to compact the soil during construction is the most common cause of leaning retaining walls. In addition, poor drainage can lead to excessive water pressure behind a retaining wall, pushing against it until it begins to move forward away from the soil it is holding back.

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.

On average, 6 inches of concrete can hold around 150 pounds per square foot, but the exact weight that 6 inches of concrete can hold depends on factors such as the type of concrete, the reinforcement method, soil conditions below, and structural design. If you’re concerned about the longevity of your concrete patio, walkway, or driveway, hire a professional to help you choose an appropriate concrete thickness and reinforcement method for your needs.

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 West Salem, 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

Dan Simms
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does Steel I-Beam Installation Cost? [2026 Data]
A new steel I-beam is more durable than a wooden one. Learn what factors can affect steel I-beam installation costs and how to budget for this project.
Lyle Hendriks
•
May 5, 2026May 5, 2026
How Much Does Beam Installation Cost [2026 Data]
Beam installation costs are an important consideration if you’re building a home or doing renovations. Learn about average costs and factors in this guide.
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.
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.
Dan Simms
•
Apr 9, 2026Apr 9, 2026
What Is a Structural Engineer and Do You Need One?
Learn what a structural engineer is, what they do, when you might need to hire one for your home project, and how much they charge.
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.