Structural Design Services

Structural Modification Evaluation

Criterium-Schimnowski Engineers has provided structural design services and evaluations to hundreds of clients. We meet you on site; listen to your ideas or speak with your contractor; and then help determine whether your project is feasible from a structural point of view. Typical structural design services include modifications such as: wall removal, basement support post relocation, increased span of window or door opening, etc.

An initial evaluation will usually lead to one of the following results:

  • The structure in question (e.g. wall, post, etc.) is NOT load bearing and may be removed.
  • The structure IS load bearing and cannot be modified.
  • The structure IS load bearing but can be removed/modified with the installation of additional structural elements such as an engineer designed beam and post system, which we can then design for you.

Structural Design/Engineering Services

We work with contractors and homeowners on many types of design projects. We may be called in when the city needs engineer approval of a project or design for permitting purposes. We assist contractors mid-way through a project who run into a challenging situation. We are available to work with your architect to confirm and/or detail the structural elements of your project or addition during the design process.

Most of these projects will require a site visit to determine existing conditions and confirm or gather measurements. As a second step, the engineer will move forward with the engineering/design/calculations portion of your project. During this phase, we will work closely with your contractor, architect, etc., as needed to achieve your goals.

Our Services include:

  • Truss repair details
  • Window and door header sizing/design
  • Foundation wall repair details
  • Beam and post design – size of beam and bearing details
  • Footing specifications
  • Structural details for room, porch, and deck additions -calculations, structural notes, redlines
  • Structural details for converting spaces (i.e. upper level of garage converted to living space) – calculations, structural notes, redlines
  • New construction – calculations, structural notes, redlines
  • Retaining wall design