MLD Engineering, PLLC specializes in all aspects of structural engineering design, consulting, and project visual inspection related to residential and commercial building projects. I am a self-employed, licensed and registered, professional engineer in the State of Texas, with over 20-years of professional experience. My main focus is to provide you with a reliable professional service for your construction, remodel, and renovation project at a very reasonable and competitive fees. Because I am self-employed with little overhead, I can provide my professional services at a cost much lower than that of larger companies and/or corporations. I also can focus my time and attention to communicating with you directly about your project. I look forward to discussing opportunities to work with you on your upcoming projects. Thank-you for your consideration. Mario De Leon, P.E.
"Mario was great to work with. Did exactly what he said he would, when he said he would do it and for the price he quoted. Couldnâ t ask for anything more. Even took the time to answer my dumb questions and advised me about an issue in my attic above my garage. Absolutely the best !!!"
Randy D on November 2020
MLD Engineering, PLLC specializes in all aspects of structural engineering design, consulting, and project visual inspection related to residential and commercial building projects. I am a self-employed, licensed and registered, professional engineer in the State of Texas, with over 20-years of professional experience. My main focus is to provide you with a reliable professional service for your construction, remodel, and renovation project at a very reasonable and competitive fees. Because I am self-employed with little overhead, I can provide my professional services at a cost much lower than that of larger companies and/or corporations. I also can focus my time and attention to communicating with you directly about your project. I look forward to discussing opportunities to work with you on your upcoming projects. Thank-you for your consideration. Mario De Leon, P.E.
"Mario was great to work with. Did exactly what he said he would, when he said he would do it and for the price he quoted. Couldnâ t ask for anything more. Even took the time to answer my dumb questions and advised me about an issue in my attic above my garage. Absolutely the best !!!"
Randy D on November 2020
Hall Engineering is a Professional Service is that is committed to excellence every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests and make their concerns the basis of our business. ** We provide a professional service to ensure your home is structurally sound or provide the proper reports for the work that needs to be completed by your hired contractor **
"Plain and simple I couldnt ask for better help. Answered every question even help with actual permit. These guys are great. Give them a shot"
Albert M on April 2025
Hall Engineering is a Professional Service is that is committed to excellence every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests and make their concerns the basis of our business. ** We provide a professional service to ensure your home is structurally sound or provide the proper reports for the work that needs to be completed by your hired contractor **
"Plain and simple I couldnt ask for better help. Answered every question even help with actual permit. These guys are great. Give them a shot"
Albert M on April 2025
Our award-winning independent structural engineers and home inspectors are knowledgeable about the home you are looking to purchase, the foundation problems you face and the load-bearing-wall you'd like to remove. We understand how the soil and the structural mechanics associated with active soils can cause cracked walls among many other issues that homeowners face. We believe that exceptional client service produces quality projects and lasting relationships, and this core value drives all that we do. We truly value our clients (and it shows), because they arent simply our clients, they're our neighbors. Crosstown Engineering values expertise, professionalism, honesty/transparency and these are the core values that drive our 3rd Party Services.
"Actually I hired Crosstown Engineering to do a home inspection of a potential property buy. The company quickly responded to my email request and was able to quickly come out to the property. Daniel, my inspector, was prompt, knowledgeable and thorough. I received my inspection report that evening. Overall I am very satisfied. "
Roberta O on May 2025
Our award-winning independent structural engineers and home inspectors are knowledgeable about the home you are looking to purchase, the foundation problems you face and the load-bearing-wall you'd like to remove. We understand how the soil and the structural mechanics associated with active soils can cause cracked walls among many other issues that homeowners face. We believe that exceptional client service produces quality projects and lasting relationships, and this core value drives all that we do. We truly value our clients (and it shows), because they arent simply our clients, they're our neighbors. Crosstown Engineering values expertise, professionalism, honesty/transparency and these are the core values that drive our 3rd Party Services.
"Actually I hired Crosstown Engineering to do a home inspection of a potential property buy. The company quickly responded to my email request and was able to quickly come out to the property. Daniel, my inspector, was prompt, knowledgeable and thorough. I received my inspection report that evening. Overall I am very satisfied. "
Roberta O on May 2025
It can be a daunting task looking for not only the right engineer for your job but also the right engineer for you. We completely understand what you're going through. We know every customer has different desires, different needs and different schedules. We're not only here to turn your ideas into reality but to make it a memorable experience every step of the way. Call us right now, no matter where you are in the planning process.
"He's great."
Lucinda N on July 2024
It can be a daunting task looking for not only the right engineer for your job but also the right engineer for you. We completely understand what you're going through. We know every customer has different desires, different needs and different schedules. We're not only here to turn your ideas into reality but to make it a memorable experience every step of the way. Call us right now, no matter where you are in the planning process.
"He's great."
Lucinda N on July 2024
The timeline for basement ceiling modifications spans four to 12 weeks, with the specific duration depending on your chosen method and project complexity. Floor-lowering projects often require more time due to careful excavation and foundation reinforcement processes.
Weather conditions, permit processing, and unexpected structural discoveries can extend the projected timeline. Most homeowners should prepare for some disruption to normal household activities during critical construction phases.
Converting previously unusable basement space into a functional living area often increases your home's assessed value, which may impact property tax obligations. Tax assessment practices vary significantly between municipalities, with some jurisdictions basing calculations on finished square footage.
To avoid surprises, contact your local tax assessment office before beginning construction to understand potential tax implications and budget accordingly for any anticipated increases.
Engaging a qualified structural engineer represents an essential first step for any basement ceiling project. These professionals evaluate foundation integrity, soil conditions, and load-bearing requirements to determine feasibility and recommend appropriate approaches.
Their expertise helps prevent potentially catastrophic structural issues while ensuring compliance with building codes. Although this consultation adds to initial expenses, it provides crucial guidance that may prevent costly mistakes or safety hazards.
Historic or aging properties present unique challenges when modifying basement ceiling heights. Older construction methods, outdated materials, and accumulated settlement issues require specialized assessment. Heritage designations may impose additional restrictions or requirements on modification approaches.
House-raising often provides advantages for older homes with compromised foundations, as it allows simultaneous foundation repair or replacement during the ceiling height modification process.
While professional contractors must handle all structural modifications, homeowners with appropriate skills may complete certain finishing aspects independently. Tasks potentially suitable for DIY include non-structural elements like painting, trim installation, or basic finishing work.
However, all excavation, foundation modification, and house-lifting operations require specialized equipment and expertise. Attempting structural work without proper qualifications creates significant safety risks and potential property damage.