Are foundation walls load-bearing?

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

Get matched with top structural engineers in New Haven, WV

Q: How does an engineer assess a building’s structural integrity?

• <div><p>Through detailed analysis of load paths, materials, and existing damages.</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>

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: 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>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your structural engineering project in New Haven, WV?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in New Haven, WV

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in New Haven, WV 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 New Haven, WV 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 August 26, 2025

Reviewed in August 2025
They did an excellent job removing our trees, grooming our yard, and then installing our fire pit.
MAC Group, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2025
Fast, Professional, effective, and incredibly knowledgeable. We would reccomend this company for anyone needing a top notch inspection.
DEW RIGHT HOME INSPECTIONS, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in April 2025
Family owned company that is very easy to work with. They took off old roof and gutters and had new roof and the correct size gutters on my house in two days. I am very pleased. The foreman was reachable and easy to talk to. The two man crew that worked on the house were very nice. I would...
Perfection Metal Roofing, Inc.
Request a quote
Reviewed in May 2024
Laid new vinyl flooring throughout the house to include closets and put down trim. Did an amazing job, great price, and super curious. Cleaned up the work area after he finished. Already hired him again for some framing and drywall work.
JLP Construction
Request a quote
Reviewed in December 2023
I have remodeled twice and they did a fantastic job both times I will absolutely hire again.
Top Shelf Handyman
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2023
Wilson's Welding and Fabrication is one of the best at what services this company provides . I'm very satisfied.
Wilson Welding and fabrication
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2023
Project started & finished within estimated timeframe. All workers were courteous & stayed busy to get the job done. Exterior of home looks much better
Christian Morris Construction, Inc.
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2023
This company, it's owner and employees were all great to work with. They installed a chain link fence around my property and a vinyl privacy fence on the front side facing the road. They were done in two days and it was a big job!
Alco Fence Company of Central West Virginia
Request a quote
Reviewed in December 2021
We hired Andrew And crew to trim back a huge water maple and to remove two Bradford pear trees. They did an excellent job on everything including cleanup in my yard and the neighbors. Very professional I would highly recommend them.
Rood Feller
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2021
Excellent! Came to the home did their inspection came up with a plan and all the prints needed to accomplish the goal. Very satisfied and they explained the reasons for what changes were needed definitely would refer them to anyone with structural engineering questions. Very serious people about...
Betts Structural Engineering LLC
Request a quote

Find Structural engineers in New Haven

J. Casey Consulting

4.7(

)

Serving New Haven, WV and surrounding areas

In business since 2014

Credit card accepted

"Structural engineering of house construction blueprints."

Response time4 days

Recommended by94%of homeowners

Request Quote

Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

Yes. Foundation walls are always load-bearing.

Through detailed analysis of load paths, materials, and existing damages.

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.

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

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 New Haven, WV 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
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Main House Support Beam? [2026 Data]
A damaged main support beam can cause serious structural damage to your house. Learn how much it costs to replace a main house support beam.
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.
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
•
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.
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.
Rachel Hoffman
•
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.