I've recently become a homeowner and I'm facing some structural concerns that I really need help with. After living here for five years, I've noticed that the previous owner wasn't very good at home maintenance. I have a back patio with a couple of pillars that seem to be suspended in midair and are currently propped up by sticks. I need to find out if these pillars are load-bearing for the roof and if my entire structure could be at risk of collapsing. What type of specialist should I hire for this? Also, I've had some issues with my siding, as pieces keep falling off despite my boyfriend trying to reattach them. What kind of person should I call to fix that? Thanks for any guidance you can provide!
3 Answers
You'll want to hire a structural engineer to evaluate the situation. They can determine if those pillars are indeed load-bearing. Larger contracting firms might have one on staff, but if you look for a smaller firm specializing in residential structures, that's usually your best bet. If you need to check if any other parts of your home need attention, a design-build architecture firm can help too!
Absolutely, a structural engineer is what you need! Look for a smaller firm or even an independent engineer focusing on residential projects; they tend to offer the most affordable rates. Try also reaching out to local engineering associations, as they might have recommendations for reputable engineers in your area.
That's a great tip! Networking with local professionals can yield some valuable recommendations.
It sounds like the posts are holding up your roof, so they're likely load-bearing. Without pics, it’s hard to give a definitive answer, but I’d recommend talking to a framer or a contractor who handles remodels—they can help assess both the patio posts and the siding issues. A general construction company should be capable of tackling both problems effectively!
Make sure to get quotes from a few contractors and check their reviews—it's the best way to find someone trustworthy to handle both your issues!
Definitely seek out someone who's local and well-reviewed, especially on platforms like Facebook—good reviews often point to reliable workers.