Commercial Structural Engineering Services
A seamless, no-hassle, multidiscipline experience.
It should go without saying that structural design begins with a deep understanding of the requirements of the job. But at SAI, we go even deeper and strive to understand you and your vision, and to anticipate the potential complications that are easy to overlook.
We’ve been there, and we get it. We get that our design must serve your expectations and budget, and it must do so in a timely manner. We also get the frustration of numerous RFIs and the time and expense associated with them. We help minimize your frustration by providing comprehensive documentation for the construction group.
With our strategic design partners, we can offer you a complete design package. We can even arrange for you to work within a single contract for everything, giving you a seamless, no-hassle multidiscipline experience. Already have a team? That’s fine too. We play well with others.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you provide structural engineering services for new construction and building additions?
Yes. We provide structural engineering services for commercial new construction projects and additions to existing buildings. Our work includes the design of foundations and superstructure using wood, steel, concrete, masonry, and brick. We are experienced in all project phases, including schematic design, design development, construction documents, and construction administration. We work collaboratively with architects, mechanical engineers, other design professionals, developers, contractors, construction managers, and owners. Our services are strictly structural design only—we do not perform construction.
Do you design pole barns or wood-framed buildings?
Yes. We design pole barns, also commonly referred to as wood-framed buildings. We provide a complete structural drawing set suitable for bidding, construction, and permitting. Our designs are prepared to meet applicable local building code and permitting requirements and can be used confidently by contractors and building officials.
Do you design foundations for pre-engineered metal buildings?
Yes. We provide structural engineering services for pre-engineered metal building projects, with a focus on foundation design that meets local building code and permitting requirements. We also design associated structural elements such as masonry walls, wainscot walls, mezzanines, and interior partitions as required. Our work coordinates closely with the layout and information provided by the PEMB manufacturer to ensure compatibility.
Do you perform structural evaluations before purchasing a building?
Yes. We perform structural evaluations of existing commercial buildings and structures as part of the due diligence process prior to purchase. These evaluations help buyers understand the structural condition of a property, identify potential concerns, and assess risks that may affect value or future capital investment. The review focuses on structural systems and provides practical, professional insight to support informed decision-making.
Do you offer peer reviews of structural designs prepared by others?
Yes. We provide peer reviews of structural designs to offer an experienced second opinion. Peer reviews can help confirm whether design decisions are appropriate, identify opportunities for improvement, and provide clarity on why certain engineering choices were made. This service is particularly valuable when the original engineer is from out of state, as we understand local building codes, construction practices, and regional material preferences. The cost of a peer review is often justified by peace of mind and the potential for construction cost savings.
Do you design deep foundation systems?
Yes. We design deep foundation systems for projects where soil conditions require them. Our experience includes auger cast piles, driven piles, and helical piers. These systems are commonly used when shallow foundations are not suitable due to poor or challenging soil conditions.
How does a structural engineer support architects during early design—not just after plans are set?
At SAI we engage during concept and schematic design, not as a downstream checker. Early involvement allows us to test column grids, lateral systems, transfer conditions, and floor‑to‑floor heights before they become expensive constraints. Architects benefit from faster iteration, fewer redesigns, and structural solutions that support—not fight—the architectural intent.
What makes a structural engineer a good long‑term partner for an architecture firm?
Consistency, predictability, and shared risk awareness. A good partner understands how your office documents projects, anticipates jurisdictional concerns, communicates clearly with owners and contractors, and flags structural risks early—before they affect schedule, budget, or design credibility. At SAI, we get how architects actually work—and we align our structural approach to support your workflow, your deadlines, and your credibility with clients.
How do you coordinate with architects to avoid structural overdesign?
We focus on load path clarity, constructability, and real‑world behavior, not theoretical maximums. Our approach emphasizes right‑sizing members, eliminating redundant systems, and selecting framing strategies that align with typical trade practices—especially important in multifamily and retail where repetition drives cost.
How do you evaluate existing buildings for adaptive reuse when original drawings are incomplete or missing?
We start with field verification: measured framing, material identification, selective probing, and observed load paths. We then reconcile those findings with current codes and intended use. Where information gaps exist, we document assumptions clearly and design conservatively—but only where risk justifies it.
What structural risks should architects anticipate early in adaptive reuse projects?
Common risks include unknown foundations, inadequate lateral systems, historic materials with limited capacity, and gravity systems not aligned with new layouts. Identifying these early allows architects to adjust layouts, cores, or massing before entitlements and design development lock in costly decisions.
Can an existing structure support additional floors or rooftop amenities?
Sometimes—but never by assumption. We evaluate reserve capacity in columns, foundations, and lateral systems, then compare strengthening options versus architectural trade‑offs. Our role is to give architects clear feasibility boundaries, not optimistic guesses.
What structural systems are most cost‑effective for mid‑rise multifamily construction?
It depends on height, spans, and location, but we routinely evaluate wood‑over‑concrete podium, all‑wood, light‑gauge steel, masonry, and hybrid systems. We help architects understand how each option affects unit layouts, acoustics, fire ratings, and construction sequencing—not just material cost.
How do you handle repetitive unit layouts efficiently without sacrificing design intent?
We standardize framing strategies and details while preserving architectural variation where it matters—facades, amenities, and public spaces. This approach reduces RFIs and shop drawing conflicts while keeping the architecture expressive.
How do you coordinate structural design with prefabrication or modular components?
We design with manufacturing tolerances and erection sequencing in mind, coordinating early with modular vendors or fabricators. This reduces field modifications and schedule risk—critical in tight multifamily delivery timelines.
How do you approach tenant improvement (TI) projects with unknown future tenants?
We design base buildings with flexibility baked in: realistic live loads, adaptable framing zones, and clear load paths that accommodate future penetrations and equipment. Architects benefit from fewer structural revisions during leasing and build‑out phases.
Can you design openings in load-bearing walls?
Yes. We design structural modifications required to safely create openings in load-bearing masonry, wood, and concrete walls. This includes openings for doors, windows, equipment access, and renovation projects. Our designs ensure that loads are properly supported and that the structural integrity of the building is maintained.
Do you provide structural consulting for small or isolated issues?
Yes. We offer targeted structural consulting services for focused design needs that do not require a full building design. This includes assistance with items such as a single wood or steel beam, or structural guidance for openings in floors or roofs. These services are intended for clients who need help with specific structural questions rather than a full project engagement.
Do you provide metal stud (light-gauge steel) structural design?
Yes. We provide comprehensive structural design services for metal stud framing. This includes engineering calculations and layout drawings required for the project. We work directly with metal stud contractors and coordinate with their preferred connector manufacturers. Once we understand a contractor’s preferred methods, materials, and detailing approach, we tailor our design to align with those preferences.
Do you help with structural damage caused by impacts or deterioration?
Yes. We advise on the evaluation, repair, and strengthening of damaged structures. This includes damage caused by vehicle or equipment impacts such as cars, forklifts, or semi-trucks striking columns or walls. We also assess and design repairs for deteriorated structural elements, including rusted or corroded steel and concrete. We move quickly to determine whether a facility is safe to remain in service and to help keep operations running or reopen facilities as soon as possible.
Do you assess vibration or bouncy floor issues?
Yes. We evaluate buildings and structures for vibration-related concerns such as bouncy floors, excessive movement, or noticeable shaking. These issues are typically serviceability-related rather than structural failures. We identify the underlying causes and design practical solutions to improve performance and occupant comfort.
Do you offer structural assessments for peace of mind?
Yes. We provide objective, stand-alone structural assessments for clients who want an independent professional opinion. These assessments commonly address concerns such as cracking, bouncy floors, or uneven or dipping floors. In many cases, our evaluation concludes that no action is required. We are not trying to sell construction services—our role is to provide an honest, unbiased engineering opinion on whether a house, building, or structure is safe. If a legitimate issue is identified, we can design appropriate repairs or remediation, but we do not perform construction.
How do you manage structural coordination for mixed‑use retail and residential buildings?
We pay close attention to transfer levels, vibration control, differential loading, and constructability at podium interfaces. Early coordination with architects helps maintain clean transitions between uses without excessive structure or compromised ceiling heights.
How do you help architects navigate code upgrades triggered by adaptive reuse?
We identify which upgrades are mandatory versus discretionary, then work with the architect and AHJ to define reasonable compliance paths. This avoids over‑correcting and helps preserve project feasibility.
How do you document assumptions and limitations to protect the design team?
We clearly state what was assumed and where concealed conditions may exist on our contract drawings. This transparency protects architects by aligning expectations among owners, contractors, and reviewers—reducing downstream disputes.
How do you support architects during permit review and construction?
We respond quickly to plan review comments, attend coordination calls when needed, and provide clear, defensible explanations to reviewers. During construction, we focus on resolving issues—not assigning blame.
How do you communicate structural decisions to architects who don’t want engineering jargon?
We explain why a system works, what constraints it introduces, and what alternatives exist—using sketches and plain language. Architects shouldn’t have to decode calculations to make informed design decisions.
How do you handle fast‑track schedules?
We phase deliverables strategically—issuing early foundations, cores, mill order, or critical framing zones while design continues elsewhere. This allows architects to maintain momentum without sacrificing structural clarity.
Do you work with architecture firms outside your home offices?
Yes. We regularly collaborate with architects across multiple states, integrating seamlessly with distributed project teams while maintaining consistent standards and communication.
What should architects look for when selecting a structural engineer for adaptive reuse?
Look for demonstrated experience with existing buildings, clear documentation practices, and a willingness to say “this won’t work” early—before design time is wasted. At SAI, we see that early clarity as part of being a true design partner, not just a consultant.
How early should a structural engineer be brought into a project?
As early as possible—ideally during site selection or concept design. Early structural input often determines whether a project is viable, not just how it’s detailed.
Why do architects choose Structural Associates, Inc. as their structural engineer?
Architects choose us because we respect design intent, communicate clearly, anticipate risk, and deliver practical solutions. Our goal is simple: help architects make confident decisions, protect their projects, and look good to their clients.