Structural Engineering: What It Covers
Structural engineering focuses on the structural integrity of buildings — foundations, framing, beams, columns, walls, and load paths. A structural engineer designs and certifies that a building can safely carry its loads. In Texas, structural engineers are needed for: load-bearing wall removals, room additions, second stories, foundation design and inspection, retaining walls over 4 feet, commercial building structural design, and forensic investigations of structural failures. All structural plans for building permits require a PE stamp.
Civil Engineering: What It Covers
Civil engineering focuses on site development and infrastructure — drainage, grading, site planning, utilities, paving, and stormwater management. A civil engineer designs how water moves across a property, how the site is laid out, and how utilities are routed. In Texas, civil engineering is needed for: new development site plans, drainage design and stormwater management, grading and earthwork plans, FEMA elevation certificates, flood zone analysis, utility design, and erosion control plans. Our firm provides PE-stamped site plans, drainage and grading design, and flood zone permitting statewide.
When You Need Both
Many projects require both civil and structural engineering. For example: a new commercial building needs civil plans (drainage, site layout, parking) and structural plans (foundation, framing, wind loads). A home addition may need structural engineering (foundation, framing) and civil engineering (drainage, grading). A property with foundation issues may need a structural inspection (foundation evaluation) and a civil assessment (drainage analysis). Our firm provides both civil and structural engineering under one license — so you don't need to hire multiple firms.
How to Decide Which You Need
If your project involves the building structure itself — foundations, walls, beams, framing — you need a structural engineer. If your project involves the site — drainage, grading, flood zones, utilities — you need a civil engineer. If you're not sure, call (833) 598-1772. We'll ask about your project and tell you exactly what engineering services you need. There's no charge for the phone consultation, and we won't recommend services you don't need.