Structural Concerns & Safety
Not necessarily.
Cracks in foundations, walls, or finishes are common in many buildings, especially in older homes. Some cracks are cosmetic or related to normal material movement, while others may indicate underlying structural issues.
A structural assessment helps determine:
- What type of cracking is present
- Why it is occurring
- Whether it is structural or non-structural
- What, if anything, needs to be done
In many cases, our role is to provide reassurance and clarity — not to recommend extensive repairs.
Foundation settlement can occur for many reasons, including:
- Soil conditions and variability
- Changes in moisture content
- Inadequate original foundation support
- Drainage issues
- Long-term loading or construction changes
Settlement does not always mean a foundation is failing or unsafe. A structural assessment helps identify the cause, assess severity, and determine whether monitoring, repair, or no action is appropriate.
Yes — clearly and directly.
If we observe conditions that require immediate attention, we will say so. If conditions are stable or long-term in nature, we will also explain that and help prioritize next steps accordingly.
Our goal is to help clients make informed decisions, not to create unnecessary urgency.
Our Process & What to Expect
Most on-site structural assessments take approximately 1–2 hours, depending on the size of the building and the nature of the concerns.
The site visit is followed by in-office analysis, review of collected information, and preparation of the report and/or drawings. Final deliverables are typically provided within five business days, after the analysis is complete.
Yes.
We regularly coordinate with contractors before, during, and after construction. This may include:
- Answering questions about drawings or reports
- Reviewing proposed material substitutions
- Helping address unexpected conditions discovered during construction
Our goal is to support a smooth construction process and ensure that the structural intent is clearly understood and properly implemented.
No.
Mass Timber Advisors does not perform construction or repair work. Our role is to provide independent structural engineering assessments, analysis, and design.
This separation helps ensure that recommendations are based on engineering judgment and the specific needs of the building — not on selling a particular repair system or service.
Yes, when appropriate.
While we are not affiliated with any contractors, we have worked with many builders and repair professionals throughout Vermont and New Hampshire. When clients request it, we can often suggest contractors who have experience with the type of work being considered.
Clients are always free to choose their own contractor, and we remain available to coordinate regardless of who performs the work.
Depending on the project, you may receive:
- A written structural report explaining existing conditions, causes, analysis, and recommendations
- Construction drawings with plans, details, and specifications that contractors can use directly
All deliverables are prepared with clarity in mind and intended to be useful for homeowners, contractors, lenders, and building officials.
Fees & Getting Started
Costs vary depending on the scope of work, building type, and level of analysis or design required. For projects involving a site visit, distance from our office in Woodbury, VT will also factor into final cost.
For assessment work, we typically provide clear, flat-rate pricing before any work begins, so there are no surprises.
For design projects (such as new homes or additions), proposals often include multiple scope options with associated flat-rate prices, allowing clients to choose the level of service that best fits their project.
The first step is simply reaching out by phone or email to describe your questions or project. From there, we will discuss scope, provide a written proposal, and outline next steps before any work begins. Please feel free to get in touch.