Business Details
Your Structural Engineering Partner in Novato, CA
At Sheerline Engineering, we pride ourselves on delivering customized structural engineering solutions tailored to each project's unique scope and requirements. Our principal-led approach ensures direct oversight and accountability, guaranteeing precision and quality in every endeavor. With expertise spanning seismic retrofitting, new construction, and complex remodels, we specialize in transforming architectural visions into structurally sound realities. Our collaborative methodology fosters seamless communication between engineers, architects, and contractors, enabling proactive problem-solving and efficient project execution. From historic steel-and-masonry buildings to modern residential pavilions, we apply decades of combined experience to address diverse structural challenges.Our commitment to constructability ensures cost-effective solutions that align with client budgets without compromising safety or innovation. Whether designing underground transit stations or optimizing weather-damaged hotel facades, we maintain rigorous adherence to engineering standards and client objectives. Our track record includes landmark projects like the seismic retrofit of San Francisco's 580 Washington building and the passive solar design of the Butterfly House. We measure success by the longevity of our structures and the trust earned from repeat clients across residential, commercial, and public infrastructure sectors. This dedication to excellence has established Sheerline Engineering as a reliable partner for structural challenges throughout the Bay Area.
Services
Seismic Retrofitting
Structural Design
Building Remodels
New Construction
Soft-Story Remediation
Tenant Improvements
Accessory Dwelling Units
Historic Renovation
Underground Station Design
Passive Solar Design
Highlights and features
- Principal engineers maintain direct involvement in every project
- Collaborative approach ensures seamless architect-contractor coordination
- Specialized expertise in seismic retrofitting and historic structures
- Proven track record with complex Bay Area construction challenges
- Commitment to cost-effective solutions without compromising safety
Services
Seismic Retrofitting
We strengthen existing structures against seismic activity through customized reinforcement strategies. Our engineers assess building vulnerabilities and implement code-compliant solutions that maintain architectural integrity while enhancing safety. This includes bracing soft-story buildings and upgrading historic masonry structures with modern seismic standards.
Structural Design
Our team creates comprehensive structural systems for new constructions and renovations. We develop detailed calculations and specifications for foundations, framing, and load-bearing elements across wood, steel, concrete, and hybrid materials while ensuring constructability and budget efficiency.
Building Remodels
We engineer structural modifications for commercial and residential renovations, including floor plan reconfiguration, vertical expansions, and system upgrades. Our solutions maintain building integrity while accommodating modern functional requirements and aesthetic goals.
New Construction
We provide full structural engineering for new buildings from foundation design to final framing. Our expertise covers multi-family housing, commercial spaces, and specialized structures with attention to material optimization and long-term durability.
Passive Solar Design
We integrate climate-responsive features like thermal mass walls and strategic window placement to reduce energy consumption. This approach optimizes natural heating and cooling while maintaining structural performance in residential and light commercial buildings.
People
Skot McDaniel
Principal Engineer
With 22 years in construction and 8 years as a licensed B-1 General Contractor, Skot transitioned to structural engineering and now leads Sheerline Engineering. He emphasizes constructability and client-focused solutions for projects ranging from custom homes to large-scale retrofits.
Questions
What structural engineering services do you specialize in?
We specialize in seismic retrofitting, building remodels, new construction, and soft-story remediation for residential, commercial, and public infrastructure projects.
How does your team approach complex engineering challenges?
We employ a collaborative methodology with direct principal involvement, ensuring early issue identification and solutions that balance structural integrity with client budgets.
Do you have experience with historic building renovations?
Yes, we've completed seismic retrofits and remodels of historic steel-and-masonry buildings while preserving architectural character.
What makes your seismic retrofitting services unique?
We combine code compliance with innovative reinforcement techniques tailored to each structure's specific needs and historical context.
How do you start a new construction project?
We begin with detailed scope assessment, followed by collaborative design development and structural system optimization before permitting and construction.
