Where to find a structural engineer?

[Kevro]

I'd like to raise the ceiling in my garage from its current 7' to 10', and think I otter talk to a structural engineer.

I've googled for them in my area, and the results are either big firms that build Citizens Bank Park, or individual people with their home address and phone number - if somebody's listed in the yeller pages as a PE, is it acceptable to call their home phone to inquire about their services?

Is there some other resource I can use to find/hire an engineer? Any pointers on how to pick out the good ones? I'm in Malvern, PA, if that makes any difference. TIA!

 

[Mickey O]

PE's are usually quite limited to what they can do, I suppose it would depend on where you're located and what the powers that be in your area say.

To find a structural engineer go here, link, and click on your state.

You can also use an architect (prices are around the same), a local residential architect might be worth a try.

 

[kwb]

Look for home designers - now they aren't engineers (usually) but will usually work with someone (PE or SE)that is used to working with residential construction techniques.

Like most professional fields there are specialist and most Structural Engineers (SE)aren't into the small residential stuff (usually not required for houses) and typically plans will be stamped by a PE with a civil background.

 

[ssleepingbeauty]

I'd like to raise the ceiling in my garage from its current 7' to 10', and think I otter talk to a structural engineer.

This guy might be able to help you

 

[Marcmcm]

Call a local real estate agent or mortgage lender and ask them for a name. Some mortgage loans require inspection by a structural engineer.

 

[WNYflyer]

If they are listed as a PE in the yellow pages then certainly give them a call. Even if they are electrical, mechanical, etc. engineers they can typically point you in the right direction on what civil/structural PE's to call. And I would get references because like any profession there is a very wide range of skill level even when they have PE after their name.

You could also try some of your local home builders for some names.

 

[nmk_61802]

Most PE/SE's that I have delt with in the professional world do not deal much with timber construction as their prefered medium is steel. I would look up Architects (AIA) some of them are also licensed SE's and most municipalities will accept their stamp universally for a SE on single family residents.

 

[Kevro]

This guy might be able to help you

Hahaha! I seal what you did there.

 

[Kevro]

All great idears, guys, thanks! I'm doing a re-fi right now, I'll ask my mortgage guy, and also call some architects and builders.

 

[viper86]

I'm an SE... but I'm halfway across the US and not licensed in PA

there are a few around here that work out of their houses, so it should not be an issue if you call the house. Those are the ones that do a fair amount of the residential work here. In my early days as a steel detailer, I had to call an engineer in Minnesota a few times, and when I called his "office" he answered "Hello?" and not "so-and-so's office"

If you're having trouble finding one that can help out, then I'd probably hit up a local residential architect. They'll be able to direct you to one that they would commonly work with. I know when we're not busy, my boss will take on a few residential projects if anyone calls.

 

[Mike83]

PE's are usually quite limited to what they can do

Yeah, usually they can only design stuff and stamp the plans to certify that they approve of the plan....

 

[T>D>C]

I performed a search for State Board of Engineering and several states governing boards popped up. I selected TX and one click later found a PDF file listing members. I am sure your state has a similar website.

 

[38Chevy454]

Yeah, usually they can only design stuff and stamp the plans to certify that they approve of the plan....

PE's are usually quite limited to what they can do, I suppose it would depend on where you're located and what the powers that be in your area say.

What Mickey means is that a PE can only practice in his area of license and expertise. Just like medical doctors have areas of expertise.

I am a metallurgical engineer PE, but I can not sign off building plans.