Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Structural Engineering Services in Austin, TX
MLAW Engineers has been delivering superior structural engineering services since 1964, with a legacy of over 54 years and 400,000 completed projects nationwide. Our expertise spans residential and commercial foundation design, framing systems, forensic evaluations, and energy efficiency solutions. By integrating with sister companies like MLA Labs, Inc., we provide seamless soil analysis and site-specific engineering, ensuring optimal designs for challenging Texas soils. Our team of seasoned professionals, including industry-recognized leaders like Dr. Robert Lytton and the late Kirby Meyer, has authored national design standards and continues to set benchmarks in structural integrity. We prioritize client collaboration, offering a one-stop approach that streamlines project timelines while maintaining rigorous quality control.Our commitment to innovation is reflected in our use of advanced technologies like CAD and energy rating systems, which enhance efficiency and compliance. With a focus on transparency and client education, we deliver cost-effective solutions tailored to each project's unique demands. Our extensive experience in expansive soil conditions positions us as a trusted authority in mitigating structural risks. We serve builders, architects, and homeowners with personalized support, from initial concept to final compliance documentation. This enduring dedication to excellence has earned us recognition as one of Texas' most respected engineering firms.
Services
Foundation Design
Framing Analysis
Forensic Services
Energy Audits
Soil Testing
Construction Inspections
Commercial Engineering
Residential Engineering
Structural Reviews
Warranty Inspections
Details
- Year established: 1964
Highlights and features
- We have over 54 years of experience in structural engineering.
- Our integration with MLA Labs ensures rapid soil analysis and foundation design.
- We authored national design standards for slab-on-ground foundations.
- Our team includes industry-recognized experts like Dr. Robert Lytton.
- We offer a one-stop approach combining engineering, testing, and inspections.
Associations and certifications
- RESNET
What people say
Thorough and conservative designs
Timely manner
Saved from legal issues
Great service
Professionalism and service
Services
Foundation Design
Our foundation design service creates site-specific solutions addressing Texas' challenging soils. Using data from 51 years of MLA Labs' soil testing, we engineer post-tensioned slabs, rebar foundations, and pier systems that balance structural integrity with cost efficiency. This approach prevents over-designing while ensuring long-term stability in expansive clay conditions.
Framing Analysis
We optimize wood and steel framing systems for residential and commercial buildings. Our engineers size structural members, review truss submittals, and identify concentrated loads to ensure efficient material use. This service reduces construction delays by addressing potential structural conflicts before building begins.
Forensic Services
Our forensic team investigates structural failures and provides expert testimony. With experience from 400,000 projects, we diagnose foundation distress, determine liability, and recommend remediation. This service includes detailed analysis of construction defects and compliance with national engineering standards.
Energy Audits
MLAW Energy conducts HERS ratings and energy optimization audits for residential and commercial properties. Using blower door tests and thermal imaging, we identify energy losses and recommend cost-effective improvements. This service helps meet green building certifications and reduces long-term utility costs.
Construction Inspections
We perform fill and beam observations, pre-pour inspections, and concrete testing throughout construction. Our third-party inspections verify code compliance and structural integrity. This service includes compliance letters required by municipalities and warranty documentation for completed projects.
People
James C. Conner
President, CEO and Chairman
Jay Conner joined MLAW in 1984 as a draftsman and worked through all company levels before becoming CEO. He holds leadership roles in multiple home builders associations and graduated from Texas A&M University in 1982.
Dr. Robert L. Lytton
Senior Consultant
Dr. Lytton holds the Fred J. Benson Chair in Civil Engineering at Texas A&M University. Internationally recognized for expansive soil research, he contributes to national engineering standards and has over 50 years of pavement analysis expertise.
Kirby T. Meyer
Co-Founder
Kirby Meyer co-founded MLAW and authored 'Soils, Earthwork, and Foundations: A Practical Approach.' With 50+ years in forensic engineering, he studied under renowned geotechnical expert Arthur Casagrande and contributed to national design manuals before passing in 2013.
Questions
What services does MLAW Engineers offer?
We provide foundation design, framing analysis, forensic evaluations, energy audits, soil testing, and construction inspections for residential and commercial projects.
How long has MLAW Engineers been in business?
We have over 54 years of experience, established in 1964, with 400,000+ completed projects nationwide.
How does MLAW handle challenging soil conditions?
Our sister company MLA Labs performs 51 years of soil data analysis, enabling site-specific foundation designs for Texas' expansive soils.
Can MLAW Engineers assist with energy efficiency certifications?
Yes, we offer HERS ratings, Energy Star certifications, and energy optimization audits through MLAW Energy services.
Do you provide inspection services during construction?
We offer fill and beam observations, pre-pour inspections, concrete testing, and compliance documentation throughout the construction process.
