Wisconsin

Crane Pad and Temporary Works Design

Engineering for crane pads, outrigger mats, temporary bracing, falsework and other temporary structures on construction sites.

Typical US fee$1,000 to $15,000
Typical timelineDays to 3 weeks
Licensing boardWisconsin Examining Board of Architects, Landscape Architects, Professional Engineers, Designers and Professional Land Surveyors

What the work involves

Temporary works carry real loads and fail without warning when underdesigned. Engineers check ground bearing for crane outriggers and pads, design crane mats, temporary bracing of walls and steel, falsework, formwork, and construction access structures, often working with a geotechnical engineer.

Local conditions we plan for

  • Deep frost penetration
  • Heavy snow loads
  • Great Lakes shoreline erosion
  • Karst in the southwest Driftless Area and Door County

Building code: IBC 2021 statewide for commercial buildings; one and two family dwellings use the state Uniform Dwelling Code instead of the IRC (ICC adoption chart, April 2026).

When you need it

  • Mobile or tower crane on uncertain ground
  • Crane setting near basement walls or utilities
  • Tall masonry or tilt-up walls needing temporary bracing
  • Falsework or shoring for concrete

Frequently asked questions

How much does crane Pad and Temporary Works Design cost?

Across the US, crane Pad and Temporary Works Design usually costs $1,000 to $15,000. Estimate. A single crane pad check is low cost; complex temporary works packages are higher.

How long does crane Pad and Temporary Works Design take?

Plan on Days to 3 weeks from signed proposal to stamped deliverables, longer if a site visit, soil testing or a permit review cycle is involved.

Do I need a licensed PE for crane Pad and Temporary Works Design?

In most US jurisdictions, yes. When the work needs a permit, the plans, calculations or report usually must be sealed by a Professional Engineer licensed in the state where the project is located. Every deliverable we issue for permit is sealed that way.

How do I verify an engineer's license in Wisconsin?

Engineers practicing in Wisconsin are licensed by the Wisconsin Examining Board of Architects, Landscape Architects, Professional Engineers, Designers and Professional Land Surveyors. You can confirm a license number and its status in the board's public license search before you sign a contract.

How deep is the frost line in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code SPS 321.16 requires footings to be below frost penetration or at least 48 inches below adjacent grade, whichever is deeper (one and two family dwellings). Local building departments set the required footing depth, so confirm the exact figure for your county before designing foundations or retaining walls.

Which building code applies in Wisconsin?

IBC 2021 statewide for commercial buildings; one and two family dwellings use the state Uniform Dwelling Code instead of the IRC (ICC adoption chart, April 2026). Cities and counties can add local amendments, which is one reason to hire an engineer who works in your area.

Cities we serve

Full service details →   State requirements →