Business Details
Earthquake Retrofit Solutions by Shearwalls
At Shearwalls, we specialize in advanced earthquake retrofitting solutions with decades of expertise in structural engineering. Our founder, Thor Matteson, pioneered the Magnitude10 brace system, a patented innovation designed to enhance seismic resilience while minimizing space and cost. With hands-on experience evaluating hundreds of homes and authoring award-winning resources on earthquake safety, we provide tailored consultations, structural evaluations, and retrofitting services to protect properties across vulnerable regions.Our work combines rigorous engineering standards with practical field knowledge, ensuring clients receive reliable, code-compliant solutions backed by proven methodologies and real-world success stories.
Services
Structural evaluations
Earthquake retrofitting
Magnitude10 brace system
Engineering consultations
Retrofitting guides
Highlights and features
- We pioneered the patented Magnitude10 brace system for superior seismic performance.
- Our founder has evaluated over 1000 homes and authored industry-standard retrofitting guides.
- We combine 40+ years of field experience with code-compliant engineering expertise.
- Our solutions prioritize cost-effectiveness without compromising structural integrity.
- We offer direct access to award-winning educational resources on earthquake safety.
What people say
Superior seismic performance
Expertise backed by books
Cost-effective solutions
Patented technology
Proven track record
Services
Structural evaluations
Our comprehensive structural evaluations identify earthquake vulnerabilities in foundations, cripple walls, and load paths. We prioritize critical weaknesses in pre-1950 homes and wood-framed structures. Clients receive actionable reports to guide retrofitting decisions.
Earthquake retrofitting
We design code-compliant retrofitting solutions using the Magnitude10 brace system. Our focus is on soft-story reinforcement and connection upgrades to prevent collapse during earthquakes. Services exclude standard remodeling projects.
Magnitude10 brace system
This patented system offers space-efficient, repair-friendly bracing for weak-story buildings. It outperforms traditional methods in cost, durability, and post-earthquake usability. Available through our manufacturing division.
Engineering consultations
We provide specialized guidance on complex retrofitting challenges and construction observation services. Consultations focus on projects requiring our patented technology or unique field conditions.
Retrofitting guides
Our books and CAD details explain seismic principles, common construction errors, and proper shear wall implementation. Resources are used by professionals and homeowners nationwide to improve retrofitting standards.
People
Thor Matteson
Structural Engineer & Inventor
With 40+ years of field experience, Thor pioneered the Magnitude10 brace system and authored industry-standard retrofitting guides. His work shapes California's seismic safety practices.
Questions
What makes the Magnitude10 brace system unique?
It combines space efficiency, cost savings, and superior seismic performance through its patented design, outperforming traditional bracing methods.
Do you perform standard retrofitting projects?
We focus on projects requiring our patented technology or unique field conditions. Standard designs are referred to other professionals.
Can you evaluate my home's earthquake safety?
Yes, we identify vulnerabilities in foundations, cripple walls, and load paths to guide retrofitting priorities for wood-framed structures.
Are your retrofitting guides useful for professionals?
Yes, our books and CAD details are industry references, used by engineers and contractors to implement code-compliant seismic upgrades.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve California and the West Coast, with specialized availability for High Sierra lakefront projects requiring onsite work.
Do you offer construction observation services?
Yes, we provide structural observation for complex projects to ensure proper implementation of engineered retrofitting solutions.
