Business Details
Trusted Structural Engineering Solutions in Katy, TX
SMS Engineering has been delivering structural design and building science solutions for residential and commercial projects for over three decades. Founded by Steve Schilder, a licensed professional structural engineer in Texas with 35 years of hands-on experience in design, field engineering, project management, and construction, the company combines deep technical expertise with practical problem-solving. Our team specializes in structural steel design, wood framing, concrete structures, foundation analysis, and forensic engineering, serving architects, contractors, and homeowners across the Houston metropolitan area. We prioritize attention to detail and cost-effective solutions, ensuring compliance with industry standards while addressing unique project challenges. With advanced coursework in structural engineering and construction management, our professionals maintain active memberships in leading organizations like the American Concrete Institute and Structural Engineering Institute.Our approach integrates field experience with innovative design methodologies to deliver durable, code-compliant structures tailored to client needs. From historical renovations to modern commercial developments, we provide comprehensive engineering services backed by rigorous quality control and technical excellence. Our reputation for reliability is reinforced through certifications including Post Tension Institute membership and International Code Council compliance. By maintaining transparency in all client interactions and adhering to ethical engineering practices, we have established ourselves as a trusted partner for complex structural projects across Fort Bend, Harris, and surrounding counties.
Services
Structural Design
Foundation Analysis
Forensic Engineering
Historical Renovation
Concrete Structures
Wood Framing
ICF Construction
Mobile Home Certification
Construction Inspections
Building Diagnostics
Highlights and features
- 35 years of hands-on engineering and construction experience
- Licensed Texas Professional Engineer with advanced structural training
- Specialized expertise in forensic analysis and remediation
- Active membership in 12+ industry-leading engineering organizations
- Proven track record in historical renovation projects
Associations and certifications
- International Code Council
- Post Tension Institute
- American Concrete Institute
- Structural Engineering Institute
- American Institute of Steel Construction
- American Society of Civil Engineers
Services
Structural Design
Our structural design services encompass residential, commercial, and industrial projects using steel, wood, and concrete materials. We create code-compliant systems that optimize structural integrity while meeting budget constraints. Our engineers utilize advanced software and field-tested methodologies to deliver efficient solutions for new construction projects across multiple sectors.
Foundation Analysis
We conduct comprehensive foundation assessments for conventional and specialized systems including post-tension slabs, pier-and-beam structures, and pre-engineered metal building foundations. Our analysis identifies settlement risks, load-bearing capacity, and repair requirements while providing cost-effective remediation strategies tailored to local soil conditions and building codes.
Forensic Engineering
Our forensic investigations identify causes of structural failures, water intrusion, and construction defects through detailed inspections and material testing. We provide expert testimony, repair recommendations, and documentation for insurance claims or legal proceedings, addressing issues from hail damage to framing deficiencies in residential and commercial properties.
Historical Renovation
Specialized restoration services preserve architectural integrity while modernizing structural systems in historic buildings. We combine traditional construction techniques with contemporary engineering standards to reinforce aging materials, improve seismic resistance, and ensure code compliance without compromising historical authenticity in protected structures.
Construction Inspections
We perform field inspections during critical construction phases to verify compliance with design specifications and building codes. Our engineers monitor structural installations, material quality, and system integration, providing real-time feedback to contractors while documenting progress for regulatory and insurance requirements.
People
Steve Schilder
Licensed Professional Engineer
With 35 years of experience in structural engineering and construction management, Steve Schilder holds Texas Professional Engineer License #67203. His expertise spans design, field engineering, and forensic analysis, supported by advanced coursework in structural engineering and memberships in 12+ industry organizations.
Questions
What types of structural engineering services do you offer?
We provide comprehensive services including structural design, foundation analysis, forensic investigations, historical renovations, and construction inspections for residential and commercial projects.
Are your engineers licensed in Texas?
Yes, our lead engineer holds Texas Professional Engineer License #67203 and the firm operates under Engineering Firm License #1625.
Do you serve areas outside Houston?
We serve Fort Bend, Harris, Waller, and surrounding counties including Austin, Colorado, Wharton, Fayette, Washington, and Montgomery counties.
What construction materials do you specialize in?
Our expertise covers structural steel, wood framing, concrete systems, cold-formed steel, and insulated concrete forms (ICF) for diverse project requirements.
Can you assist with historical building renovations?
Yes, we specialize in preserving structural integrity while modernizing systems in heritage buildings through specialized restoration techniques and code-compliant upgrades.
What professional organizations are you affiliated with?
We maintain active memberships in the Post Tension Institute, American Concrete Institute, Structural Engineering Institute, and 8+ other industry organizations.
