F.A.Q. Answers
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Penn Valley Engineering
F.A.Q. Answers
(Answers to Your Frequently Asked Questions)
You have questions that involve structural engineering… How much does a structural engineering inspection cost? When do you need a structural engineer? How do I fix my buckling basement foundation walls? We are asked these types of questions frequently and are happy to answer them. While some questions can only be answered on a case-by-case basis, Penn Valley Engineering offers many F.A.Q. answers below.
F.A.Q. Answers
Q: As a homebuyer, when do I need to hire a structural engineer?
A: When your home inspector discovers a potential structural concern or issue and recommends a structural engineer for further inspection and evaluation.
Q: How much does it cost to hire a structural engineer?
A: The cost (or fee) to hire a structural engineer varies and depends on the specific tasks or scope of work.
Q: What does a Structural Engineer do during a structural inspection?
A: A structural engineer will visually examine the structural conditions of the home or building in accordance with the agreed scope of work.
Q: What do cracks in my basement foundation walls mean?
A: Cracks in basement foundation walls can mean structural distress attributed to several factors. The most common factors are differential foundation settlement or lateral buckling (or bowing) basement block masonry walls.
Q: How do I fix my buckling basement foundation walls in my home?
A: Buckling basement foundation walls must be first evaluated to determine the feasibility of a repair or replacement, followed by presenting the options of repair.
Q: What is termite damage?
A: Termites are subterranean insects that cause wood damage, which lead to structural problems to wood framed homes and buildings?
Q: What is a Floor Joist?
A: A Floor Joist is a repetitive bending member oriented horizontally and spanning between two points.
Q: What is a load-bearing wall?
A: A load-bearing wall is a framed wall that carries the load from the floors or roof above.
Q: What is a lintel?
A: A Lintel is a masonry term for a beam or header member, which spans over an opening in a masonry wall.
Q: What does it cost to fix my foundation?
A: The cost to fix or repair a structurally distressed foundation depends upon the scope, method, and extent (limits) of repair.
Q: When is building permit required?
A: Building permits are required when any structural element of a home or building is; repaired, altered, replaced, improved or modified.
Still Have Unanswered Questions?
If you have questions that are not listed on this F.A.Q. answers page, browse our website. If you still do not find the answer, need specific information, or more details, contact us. We’ll be happy to try to answer all of your structural engineering questions!
Testimonial
“I’d highly recommend Penn Valley Engineering. […] Upfront on cost and the process. Greg, inspector, arrived on time, very knowledgeable, did a thorough inspection detailing what he saw and gave his option as to what needs to be corrected first. We live in a A framed house (rancher) that comes with a lot of challenges. The report received was everything discussed with approx costs of repairs. Penn Valley Engineering is there to assist you for your structural needs.”
Lynn A. – Reviewing structural engineering in Sewell, NJ