An engineer's inspection is typically required to verify a structural design or structural performance issue. This when (1) a concern arises about the structural performance or stability of an existing frame or foundation system, or (2) an engineer stamped certification statement of a design is required before construction or renovation design can proceed.
FOUNDATIONS AND STRUCTURES: We have inspected 'slab-on-grade', crawl space 'pier & beam', and 'elevated piling' types. On top of these above foundations types, ECO TexasEngineer has provided both engineering design and inspection of every type of structural system used in Texas residential and light commercial construction.
Most home foundation inspections are requested due to the actions our reactive ‘gumbo’ soil. Frame structural inspections are requested often due to planned or previous remodeling changes. Some owner-builders request an inspection after seeing the first signs of an inadequate design. Sometimes it is subtle like some sheetrock that is fixed in the same place every above a homes entry door every two years. Or more noticeable like the correction facility we inspected that had a 3” wave-like tripping hazard in the main hallway. The most dramatic inspection we have done was for a custom home that had its sub-floor collapse caused by improper delivery/placement of building materials.
Most home foundation inspections are requested due to the actions our reactive ‘gumbo’ soil. Frame structural inspections are requested often due to planned or previous remodeling changes. Some owner-builders request an inspection after seeing the first signs of an inadequate design. Sometimes it is subtle like some sheetrock that is fixed in the same place every above a homes entry door every two years. Or more noticeable like the correction facility we inspected that had a 3” wave-like tripping hazard in the main hallway. The most dramatic inspection we have done was for a custom home that had its sub-floor collapse caused by improper delivery/placement of building materials.
Our inspection reports will cover ‘the devil is in the details’
Big issues like 3” tall ‘waves’ in a floor, or the collapsed sub-floor frame, require a more ‘macro’ inspection approach. Some frame inspection require a detailed engineering analysis based on the data we collect in the field. And sometimes a more subtle approach is required for residential foundation with minor but still troubling problems. The problem is to know how much movement is okay, or when is repair needed? We all know there is a problem when that amount of movement reaches a level that it affects the performance and comfort of a home or office. This is when a slab ‘feels’ un-level, is severely cracked, or is tilting. But exactly how much and exactly where is the problem? That is when an engineer's inspection and report may become valuable.
Specialized Testing and Data Collection- Our inspection services may include digital elevation measurement of the foundation surface with a visual inspection and perimeter beam depth measurement. We may also collect and then review additional data such as concrete strength by using industry testing tools like the photo to the right. We then evaluate the collected data against the plan specified concrete strength, industry practice, and our knowledge and experience for the application and type of structure.
We summarize our evaluation in an engineer stamped professional opinion report. This report will provide a factual, detailed, documented, plain language legal document for use in buy/sell discussions or remodeling decisions.
Give your home a Hardhat! ECO provides new build and forensic inspection services for foundation and frame systems used in homes and light commercial buildings. For windstorm areas we also inspect room additions, deck and trellis additions, or the addition of special systems like solar panels and rain water harvesting systems.
ECO carries professional liability (errors) and general liability (accidents) insurance. If you are comparing engineering bids, we suggest that you ask forconfirmation copies of these two insurance coverages from competingengineers. Then decide whether having a company like ECO with fullinsurance coverage, is preferred over someone with partial coverage or even no insurance at all.
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Most home foundation inspections are requested due to the actions our reactive ‘gumbo’ soil. Frame structural inspections are requested often due to planned or previous remodeling changes. Some owner-builders request an inspection after seeing the first signs of an inadequate design. Sometimes it is subtle like some sheetrock that is fixed in the same place every above a homes entry door every two years. Or more noticeable like the correction facility we inspected that had a 3” wave-like tripping hazard in the main hallway. The most dramatic inspection we have done was for a custom home that had its sub-floor collapse caused by improper delivery/placement of building materials.
Big issues like 3” tall ‘waves’ in a floor, or the collapsed sub-floor frame, require a more ‘macro’ inspection approach. Some frame inspection require a detailed engineering analysis based on the data we collect in the field. And sometimes a more subtle approach is required for residential foundation with minor but still troubling problems. The problem is to know how much movement is okay, or when is repair needed? We all know there is a problem when that amount of movement reaches a level that it affects the performance and comfort of a home or office. This is when a slab ‘feels’ un-level, is severely cracked, or is tilting. But exactly how much and exactly where is the problem? That is when an engineer's inspection and report may become valuable.
Specialized Testing and Data Collection- Our inspection services may include digital elevation measurement of the foundation surface with a visual inspection and perimeter beam depth measurement. We may also collect and then review additional data such as concrete strength by using industry testing tools like the photo to the right. We then evaluate the collected data against the plan specified concrete strength, industry practice, and our knowledge and experience for the application and type of structure. 
Give your home a Hardhat! 
