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 Union, WV

Q: Are brick houses safer in an earthquake?

• <div><p>According to the <a href="https://www.earthquakecountry.org/step4/urmwalls/#:~:text=Houses%20built%20of%20unreinforced%20masonry,and%20the%20roof%20is%20critical.">Earthquake Country Alliance</a>&mdash;a public and private alliance in California that works to improve earthquake and tsunami readiness&mdash;reports that unreinforced masonry, such as stone, bricks, and hollow clay tiles, is more susceptible to earthquake damage. The mortar between bricks isn&rsquo;t as stable as other building materials and methods.</p></div>

Q: What is the hardest stage in building a house?

• <div><p>The early stages of building a house are harder than the later stages; laying the foundation and framing the house are two of the most challenging steps. However, it varies for everyone. Some people have difficulty installing HVAC, plumbing, and electricity, while others find it harder to plan the house and secure the necessary permits. </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>

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 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>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Union, WV

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Union, 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 Union, 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 February 14, 2026

Reviewed in February 2026
Gave me a reasonable price did a good job on getting the job done they cleaned everything up and after theirselves I would hire again
JB tree trimmer lawn care
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Reviewed in October 2025
Cornerstone Renovation's Noah was on the ball. He was courteous, knowledgeable and respectful on the phone. When we met in person, he was on time & answered all the questions we had. He kept us apprised of the process & installed our new roof as scheduled & in 1 day. I had pictures of the work...
Cornerstone Renovations WV LLC
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Reviewed in April 2025
Adam’s a hard worker that always shows up and gets the job done! Good attention to detail
Refined Roots Lawn Care
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Reviewed in April 2025
We had tree stumps removed and filled, gravel spread, wood split and yard damage repaired. Prices were reasonable and Brian was very courteous and professional. Work was completed within timeline given.
High Country Land Service LLC
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Reviewed in November 2024
We love our new screened in porch it is beautiful and was finished so quickly and professionally. I highly recommend Elite Xteriors! Enrique, Osciel, and Esperanza were so wonderful and did such excellent work!
Elite Xteriors NC
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Reviewed in October 2023
These folks do terrific work. They were polite, honest as they could be, and kept us up to date on the job in progress. The materials and craftsmanship are top notch. We highly recommend them as your gutter installers, or anything else they can do to make your house look fabulous. Christopher...
Yoders Seamless Gutter
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Reviewed in July 2023
IÃ Â¢Ã Â Ã Â ve had other appliance repair in the past. This was the first time I was referee to this company. I must say they was way more professional and better to deal with that all my prior experiences. Will be using them from now on!
M & B Appliance Repair, LLC
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Reviewed in December 2021
We hired Mike to do an emergency weld job on our Pitts drop deck trailer that is hauling a 323 Cat excavator to Missouri..he showed up on time very professional and knowledgeable . He went right to worked and never stopped until the project was done . Beautiful welds great craftsmanship the man...
Smith's Mobile Welding & Repair
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Reviewed in November 2021
This contractor is a very honest and trustworthy person. His work was impeccable. Price was decent. Went above and beyond. I highly recommend Country Roads.
Country Roads Electrical, LLC
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Reviewed in September 2021
It was great. We didn't have any issues and problems. Everything went good.
Greenbrier Valley Solutions
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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

According to the Earthquake Country Alliance—a public and private alliance in California that works to improve earthquake and tsunami readiness—reports that unreinforced masonry, such as stone, bricks, and hollow clay tiles, is more susceptible to earthquake damage. The mortar between bricks isn’t as stable as other building materials and methods.

The early stages of building a house are harder than the later stages; laying the foundation and framing the house are two of the most challenging steps. However, it varies for everyone. Some people have difficulty installing HVAC, plumbing, and electricity, while others find it harder to plan the house and secure the necessary permits.

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 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.

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

The Union, 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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May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
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