Structural Modification Evaluation
Criterium-Twin Cities Engineers has provided structural design services and evaluations to hundreds of clients. We meet you on site; listen to your ideas or speak with your contractor; and then help determine whether your project is feasible from a structural point of view. Typical structural design services include modifications such as wall removal, basement support post relocation, increased span of window or door opening, etc.
An initial evaluation will usually lead to one of the following results:
- The structure in question (e.g. wall, post, etc.) is NOT load-bearing and may be removed.
- The structure IS load-bearing and cannot be modified.
- The structure IS load-bearing but can be removed/modified with the installation of additional structural elements such as an engineer designed beam and post system, which we can then design for you.
Structural Design/Engineering Services
We work with contractors and homeowners on many types of design projects. We may be called in when the city needs engineer approval of a project or design for permitting purposes. We assist contractors mid-way through a project who run into a challenging situation. We are available to work with your architect to confirm and/or detail the structural elements of your project or addition during the design process.
Most of these projects will require a site visit to determine existing conditions and confirm or gather measurements. As a second step, the engineer will move forward with the engineering/design/calculations portion of your project. During this phase, we will work closely with your contractor, architect, etc., as needed to achieve your goals.
Our Services include:
- Truss repair details
- Window and door header sizing/design
- Foundation wall repair details
- Beam and post design – size of beam and bearing details
- Footing specifications
- Structural details for room, porch, and deck additions -calculations, structural notes, redlines
- Structural details for converting spaces (i.e. upper level of garage converted to living space) – calculations, structural notes, redlines
- New construction – calculations, structural notes, redlines
- Retaining wall design