Raised Porch Foundation Sign-Off
Budget: $250 – $750 USD
I’m looking for a Michigan licensed structural engineer who can review and stamp a straightforward solution for my front porch foundation. The porch sits above an unfinished cellar room and I need to raise the existing foundation by 8 inches, install metal decking, and pour a 4-inch concrete slab.
Scope and background
• Primary load-bearing material: I’d like the design to rely on a double LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) for the new support structure.
• Most of the span can rest on reinforced cement-block walls; however, the back edge—where the porch meets the house—offers only 2-3 inches of bearing before it meets the rim board, so creative detailing is required.
• Alternative members such as an I-beam can be discussed if they simplify the bearing issue or improve constructability.
What I need from you
1. Signed and sealed structural drawings that a contractor can take straight to permit.
2. Full design calculations (load path, bearing checks, connection details) for review by my local authority.
3. All work must satisfy applicable state building codes; please reference sections explicitly in the calcs or notes.
4. A brief clarification memo so my builder understands any critical installation steps—particularly for the LVL interface and the metal-decking/slab tie-in.
Nice to have
• Suggestions on fasteners, hangers, or blocking that minimise field fabrication.
• A quick follow-up (email or short call) if the inspector asks for minor clarifications.
This is a relatively compact project, but I still need professional rigor and a prompt turnaround so we can stay on schedule. If you’re licensed in my state and comfortable stamping porch or small-addition plans, I’d love to work with you.
Scope and background
• Primary load-bearing material: I’d like the design to rely on a double LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) for the new support structure.
• Most of the span can rest on reinforced cement-block walls; however, the back edge—where the porch meets the house—offers only 2-3 inches of bearing before it meets the rim board, so creative detailing is required.
• Alternative members such as an I-beam can be discussed if they simplify the bearing issue or improve constructability.
What I need from you
1. Signed and sealed structural drawings that a contractor can take straight to permit.
2. Full design calculations (load path, bearing checks, connection details) for review by my local authority.
3. All work must satisfy applicable state building codes; please reference sections explicitly in the calcs or notes.
4. A brief clarification memo so my builder understands any critical installation steps—particularly for the LVL interface and the metal-decking/slab tie-in.
Nice to have
• Suggestions on fasteners, hangers, or blocking that minimise field fabrication.
• A quick follow-up (email or short call) if the inspector asks for minor clarifications.
This is a relatively compact project, but I still need professional rigor and a prompt turnaround so we can stay on schedule. If you’re licensed in my state and comfortable stamping porch or small-addition plans, I’d love to work with you.