The Old Forest Hill structural project was a defining moment in our evolution as a contracting company. Working in one of the most prestigious, competitive, and architecturally demanding neighbourhoods in Toronto added the right amount of pressure to motivate us to excel, and ultimately shaped us into the highly specialized, detail-oriented structural team we are today.
We had already been completing structural projects for several years when we were approached about taking on this exceptionally challenging scope. With the support of our partner engineer, we developed a workflow strategy at the level of a full project-management firm, ensuring precision, safety, and efficiency at every step.
Project Overview
A unique aspect of this project was the client themselves: they own a large construction company, and their crew was already working continuously on the home. Despite their experience, their own employees did not want to take on the structural component due to its complexity.
- We later learned that the homeowner had attempted to hire two other structural contractors before us:
The first contractor walked away immediately, stating the project was too complex.
The second contractor signed the contract and accepted the deposit, only to return a week later, refund the check, and cancel, again citing the difficulty of the project.
For us, this was a true “baptism by fire.” It pushed us to refine our engineering coordination, strengthen supplier relationships, and elevate our workflow efficiency. The result was a project that transformed us into a competitive, highly specialized structural contractor trusted for the most demanding work.
Scope of Work
1. Structural Steel & LVL Installation
- Supplied and installed numerous engineered steel beams, totaling over 10,000 lb
- All beams were packed with four layers of LVL to increase strength and stiffness
2. Structural Wall Removal & Reinforcement
- Cut and removed a 16-inch double-wythe brick and river-rock wall, with proper pinning and temporary support
- Replaced a 22-ft wooden beam with a steel beam to support a large patio door opening
Installed various other steel beams throughout the property.
3. Steel Posts & On-Site Welding
- Installed multiple engineered steel posts
- Completed licensed on-site welding to ensure perfect alignment and structural continuity
4. Crew & Timeline
- An 8-person implementation crew completed the entire structural scope in under two weeks, despite the complexity and scale
Project Outcome
The Old Forest Hill project stands as one of the most significant milestones in our company’s history. It challenged us, refined us, and ultimately elevated our capabilities to a new level. Since completing this project, we have continued to work for the same client on numerous additional projects, a testament to the trust, respect, and long-term relationship built through this experience.
We remain grateful for their confidence in our ability to deliver, no matter how complex the structural challenge.
If you’re planning a highly technical structural renovation, need engineered load-bearing wall removal, or require a contractor capable of executing complex steel-and-LVL structural systems, our team is equipped to deliver. Reach out to discuss engineered, code-compliant structural solutions that make your home safer, stronger, and built to the highest technical standard.
- What Our Client Said
- Joseph, NMR Properties
- Old Forest Hill Rd, Toronto
- We do large high-end custom homes. A lot of our projects like this 7000 sf house in Forest Hill was a renovation, which required opening large sections of exiting bearing wall. This requires very experienced trades. Alexander from Aldo Homes brought vast knowledge in this area. He and his crew was not only very professional but also very easy to work with. Though out this job and subsequent jobs they have always been very reliable. I know I am in good hands anytime I have Alexander on my projects. Joseph NMR Properties
