Do I need a structural engineer to knock down a wall?

• <div><p>In many areas, advice from a structural engineer or an architect will be required by your building department before you can remove a wall, but even if it’s not necessary, it’s a good idea. Accidentally removing a load-bearing wall—even if a general contractor advises that it’s safe—can cause major structural damage, putting you and your family at risk and potentially costing thousands or tens of thousands of dollars in property damage.</p></div>

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Q: How thick are LVL beams?

• <div><p>The standard thickness for an LVL beam is between <b>1.75 inches and 7 inches</b>. However, you can order LVL beams in non-standard sizes as well. When you work with a contractor, they can source beams that are the appropriate size for your project for you after assessing your blueprints.</p></div>

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: Why should I add structural support for my house after I raise it?

• <div><p>If your home's foundation was damaged due to shifting soil, the same problem will reoccur unless you stabilize the structure by adding posts in the bedrock.</p></div>

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>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Petersburg, WV

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Petersburg, 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 Petersburg, 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 30, 2024

Reviewed in August 2024
The team did a fantastic job installing the new unit and has provided excellent service since then.
VALLEY BREEZE HVAC LLC
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Reviewed in July 2024
Bryan’s team went above and beyond for our basement remodel.
Bryan Polo Construction
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Reviewed in January 2024
Consulting was a breeze and Rory made it easy to decide what option was best for us. The work was done quickly and it looks great now that it's complete! Thanks NVB :)
NVB Contracting LLC
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Reviewed in November 2023
It was an excellent job ! They did exactly what I wanted and were quick and efficient would definitely hire again!
JC Tree service
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Reviewed in September 2023
Miguel / FF&amp;E Global Assembly delivered solid, commercial level work for us. He has strong attention to detail and wants to ensure the job is done efficiently and with high quality. We worked 3 long days, and Miguel maintained a positive, can-do attitude throughout the project. I...
FF&E Global Assembly
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Reviewed in September 2023
JJJ Welding Services completed a fast turn welding project for us. I delivered our component sets to JJJ and he completed our 32 piece project in under 2 hours. Fast, quality project at a very good value.
JJJ Welding Services
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Reviewed in July 2023
Kyle White gave a free quote and stood by that quote. There were some delays waiting for materials but cost not passed on to the customer. Excellent job done. We are extremely happy with the end result!! Would highly recommend RS Land and Forestry Services
RISEN SONS LAND & FORESTRY SERVICES
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Reviewed in July 2023
Aaron and Kehan, very professional did a great job! Highly recommend Expert Wire.
Expert Wire, Inc.
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Reviewed in June 2023
Very skilled in carpentry and deck building, had a 10/18 deck added to my river cabin, would recommend them if your looking for precise cuts and timely work, I am very anal about quality, so check these guys out.
The Handyman Home Services
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Reviewed in April 2023
Eric was very easy to work with. He had total compassion & understanding of the needs of a client with disability issues. He went above & beyond to carefully plan & execute the plans for our basement remodel. The work was completed in a satisfactory time frame. We were always...
Somrok, Inc. DBA Stephen Black Builders, Inc.
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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

The standard thickness for an LVL beam is between 1.75 inches and 7 inches. However, you can order LVL beams in non-standard sizes as well. When you work with a contractor, they can source beams that are the appropriate size for your project for you after assessing your blueprints.

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.

If your home's foundation was damaged due to shifting soil, the same problem will reoccur unless you stabilize the structure by adding posts in the bedrock.

In many areas, advice from a structural engineer or an architect will be required by your building department before you can remove a wall, but even if it’s not necessary, it’s a good idea. Accidentally removing a load-bearing wall—even if a general contractor advises that it’s safe—can cause major structural damage, putting you and your family at risk and potentially costing thousands or tens of thousands of dollars in property damage.

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.

The Petersburg, WV 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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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.
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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.
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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.
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Mar 19, 2026Mar 19, 2026
Who to Hire to Replace a Sill Plate?
A sill plate needs to be replaced when it starts to rot out. Use this guide to help you know who to hire to replace a sill plate at your home.
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May 5, 2026May 5, 2026
How to Hire a Structural Engineer: Complete Guide
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May 3, 2026May 3, 2026
15 Warning Signs That a House Will Collapse
A home doesn’t collapse unexpectedly. Learn the warning signs that a house will collapse, so you can protect your family and your home.