Snow and Associates has experience in many types of investigations.

1. Residential structural evaluations
2. Commercail structural evaluations
3. Foundation evaluation
4. Foundation repair

It is common that Home Inspectors find cracks or movement in walls and slabs that required further investigation by a Structural Engineer. Sometimes the problems noted are minor settlement that can be repaired by cosmetic methods. In other cases, the problems noted are caused by soil movement but minor adjustments can be made to the building and the landscaping that will greatly reduce or eliminate the movement. In yet other cases, major reapirs are required that involve cut-off walls, high pressure concrete injection or pier supports to stabilize the structure.

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Structural Evaluations can be based on a visual observation of the structural elements of the building. In many buildings, the structural elements are covered by architectural coverings. Floors are covered by carpet, vinyl floor covering, ceramic tile or stone. Walls are covered by interior drywall and exterior cement plaster or siding. Roofs are covered by roofing above and drywall or suspended ceilings above. Visual evaluations require an engineer experinced in observing the pattern of cracks in the architectural coverings to determine the cause of any problems noted and if structural damage has occurred based on an estomate of the structure hidden from view.

More rigorous evalations can be made if it is determined that more information is needed to determine the cause of a problem or the severity of any structural damage.

Expansive and collapsible soil is a problem for many structures. When cracks are present in the building, an evalation should be made to determine the severity of the problem. Cracks in the walls, ceilings and floors can be caused by soils problems, normal settlement, workmanship or a lack detailing that allows movement between disimilar materials.

Investigations can be based on a visual observation, direct observation with removal of architectural coverings. The reports can be as detailed as required by the Owner. Where repairs are necessay, complete designs and drawings can be prepared.