Business Details
Expert Structural Engineering Services in Katy, TX
SMS Engineering has been delivering structural design and building science solutions for over three decades. Founded by Steve Schilder, a licensed professional structural engineer in Texas with 35 years of hands-on experience in design, construction, and project management, our firm combines deep technical expertise with practical problem-solving. We specialize in residential and commercial structural engineering, offering tailored solutions for new builds, renovations, and forensic investigations. Our team holds advanced certifications in structural engineering, construction management, and building codes, ensuring compliance with the highest industry standards.With a focus on precision and client value, we serve engineers, architects, contractors, and homeowners across Houston and surrounding counties. Our commitment to quality is reflected in our memberships with leading organizations like the American Concrete Institute, Structural Engineering Institute, and International Code Council. By prioritizing attention to detail and innovative design, we help clients achieve durable, code-compliant structures that meet evolving industry demands.
Services
Structural Design
Foundation Analysis
Forensic Engineering
Historical Restoration
Steel Framing
Wood Framing
Concrete Structures
ICF Design
Mobile Home Certification
Construction Inspections
Highlights and features
- 35 years of experience in structural engineering and construction
- Licensed professional engineer with advanced certifications in structural design
- Specialized expertise in residential, commercial, and historical restoration projects
- Comprehensive code compliance and building science knowledge
- Active membership in 12+ leading engineering and construction organizations
Associations and certifications
- Post Tension Institute
- American Concrete Institute
- Structural Engineering Institute
- American Institute of Steel Construction
- American Society of Civil Engineers
- Architectural Engineering Institute
- Cold Formed Steel Engineers Institute (CFSEI)
- Foundation Performance Association
- International Code Council
- International Concrete Repair Institute (ICRI)
- Timber Framers Guild
- The Masonry Society
Services
Structural Design
Structural design services for residential, commercial, and industrial projects include steel framing, wood framing, and engineered wood products. Our team creates code-compliant solutions for new constructions and renovations. With expertise in SIPs, glulam beams, and pole structures, we ensure optimal load-bearing capacity and structural integrity for diverse building types.
Foundation Analysis
Foundation design and evaluation services cover post-tension slabs, pier-and-beam systems, and conventional concrete foundations. We specialize in mobile home foundations, pre-engineered metal building supports, and remediation of settlement issues. Our analysis ensures stable ground support for residential and commercial structures across varying soil conditions in Texas.
Forensic Engineering
Forensic engineering services identify causes of structural failures, water damage, and construction defects. We conduct detailed inspections for hail, wind, and settlement damage, providing expert testimony and repair recommendations. Our investigations address framing defects, foundation movement, and building envelope performance issues for insurance claims and litigation support.
Historical Restoration
Historical restoration services preserve architectural integrity while meeting modern safety standards. We assess structural soundness of heritage buildings, recommend reinforcement methods, and ensure code compliance during renovations. Our expertise maintains original design elements while addressing material degradation and structural weaknesses in historic Texas properties.
Construction Inspections
On-site construction inspections verify proper implementation of engineering plans. We monitor structural steel erection, concrete pouring, and framing work to ensure adherence to design specifications. Our team identifies potential issues during construction phases, preventing costly corrections and guaranteeing compliance with local building codes and safety regulations.
People
Steve Schilder
Licensed Professional Structural Engineer
Steve Schilder is a Texas-licensed structural engineer with 35 years of experience in design, construction management, and forensic analysis. He holds advanced coursework in structural engineering and construction management from the University of Texas, where he earned his BS in Architectural Engineering.
Questions
What types of structural engineering services do you offer?
We provide structural design for residential, commercial, and industrial projects including steel/wood framing, foundation analysis, historical restoration, and forensic engineering services for construction defects.
Do you serve areas outside Katy, Texas?
Yes, we serve the greater Houston area and surrounding counties including Fort Bend, Harris, Waller, Austin, Colorado, Wharton, Fayette, Washington, and Montgomery counties.
What qualifications does your engineering team have?
Our lead engineer holds a BS in Architectural Engineering from the University of Texas, 35 years of industry experience, and is a licensed professional engineer in Texas (#67203).
Can you assist with historical building restoration projects?
Yes, we specialize in historical restoration projects, combining structural analysis with preservation techniques to maintain architectural integrity while meeting modern safety standards.
What construction defect investigations do you perform?
We investigate foundation settlement, framing defects, water damage, hail/wind damage, and construction defects, providing detailed reports with repair recommendations for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
Are you certified to inspect manufactured homes?
Yes, we provide FHA/HUD certification and foundation design for mobile and manufactured homes, ensuring compliance with Texas building codes and safety standards.
