What areas does Palisade Engineering serve?

Palisade Engineering provides structural engineering services throughout Nevada (Reno, Sparks, Carson City, Lake Tahoe), California (Sacramento, Lake Tahoe region, Northern California), Arizona (Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler), Utah, and Iowa. We are licensed to practice in all five states and add jurisdictions as our clients expand.

What types of projects does Palisade Engineering work on?

We specialize in multi-family residential (apartments, condos, townhomes), commercial buildings (retail, office, warehouse), custom residential homes, and mixed-use developments. Our expertise includes wood frame, steel, concrete, and tilt-up construction.

Does Palisade Engineering offer BIM modeling services?

Yes, we provide comprehensive BIM (Building Information Modeling) services using Revit. This includes 3D structural modeling, clash detection, construction coordination, and detailed documentation to prevent costly field conflicts.

What is value engineering and how can it save money?

Value engineering optimizes structural systems to reduce construction costs while maintaining safety and performance. Palisade Engineering achieves meaningful structural cost savings through material optimization, efficient framing layouts, and construction-friendly details.

Can Palisade Engineering help with seismic design in earthquake zones?

Yes, we have extensive experience with seismic design for high seismic zones in Nevada and California. This includes new construction seismic design, seismic retrofits, and structural upgrades to meet current building codes.

Does Palisade Engineering provide seismic anchorage for data centers in Northern Nevada?

Yes. Palisade Engineering is headquartered in Reno, Nevada — one of the fastest-growing US data center markets, home to Switch SuperNAP, Apple, and Google facilities. We provide PE-stamped seismic anchorage calculations for all data center equipment including server racks (starting at $850/rack, standard 48-hour turnaround), UPS systems, generators, CRAC/CRAH cooling units, and PDUs. All data center work uses Risk Category IV classification per ASCE 7-22 Chapter 13. We serve facilities throughout Northern Nevada including the Tahoe Reno Industrial Center (TRIC), Storey County, Sparks, and Fernley.

How do I contact Palisade Engineering for a project?

Contact us at (775) 323-6633, email info@pe-se.com, or visit our office at 1680 Montclair, Suite B, Reno, NV 89509. You can also submit a project inquiry through our website at pe-se.com/contact.

How much do seismic anchorage calculations cost?

Palisade Engineering offers fixed-price seismic anchorage calculations starting at $850 per unit for standard server racks and small equipment (Tier 1). Complex equipment like large UPS and generators starts at $1,500-$2,000 (Tier 2). Full facility packages for complete data hall buildouts start at $25,000 (Tier 3).

How fast can I get PE-stamped seismic anchorage calculations?

Palisade Engineering delivers Tier 1 PE-stamped seismic anchorage calculations in 48-72 hours, with a 24-hour rush option available for $1,500 per unit. Complex equipment (Tier 2) takes 3-5 business days. Full facility packages are delivered within approximately 2 weeks. We typically provide a fixed-price quote within 24–48 hours after receiving your equipment information.

What is included in a PE-stamped seismic anchorage package?

Every Palisade Engineering seismic anchorage package includes PE-stamped calculations per ASCE 7-22 Chapter 13, an anchor schedule with exact products and installation specs (embedment depths, edge distances, torque values), ICC-ES evaluation report references, and jurisdiction-specific seismic parameters for your exact site address.

What are the most common signs of structural damage?

Diagonal or stair-step cracks in walls and masonry, sticking or out-of-square doors and windows, sloping or uneven floors, gaps around window frames and exterior trim, sagging rooflines, and persistent water intrusion at the foundation are all common warning signs.

Are hairline cracks in drywall a sign of structural damage?

Hairline cracks in drywall are usually cosmetic and caused by normal settling or seasonal humidity. Active, growing cracks, horizontal cracks in foundations, or stair-step cracks in brick or block masonry are more concerning and warrant a structural inspection.

When should I call a structural engineer about damage?

Call a structural engineer when cracks are growing, when multiple symptoms appear together (cracks + sloping floors + sticking doors), after a sudden change such as a flood or earthquake, or whenever you see visible foundation movement.

How much does a structural inspection cost?

A standalone visual structural inspection in the Western US typically costs $400 to $1,200 depending on building size and travel. A formal engineer's report with photographs and recommendations usually adds $500 to $1,500.

June 2, 2025

Signs of Structural Damage in Homes and Businesses

Signs of structural damage in a residential building — cracked foundation and wall separation

Structural damage can pose significant risks to the safety, value, and functionality of homes and businesses in Reno. Identifying the early signs of structural issues is essential to prevent further damage and costly repairs.

Large foundation rebar grid for structural reinforcement — Palisade Engineering

Common Warning Signs

1. Foundation Cracks

Not all cracks indicate serious problems, but certain types require immediate attention. Horizontal cracks, stair-step cracks in masonry, and cracks wider than 1/4 inch should be evaluated by a structural engineer.

2. Doors and Windows That Stick

When doors and windows become difficult to open or close, it often indicates foundation movement or structural settling. This is especially concerning if multiple doors are affected simultaneously.

3. Uneven or Sloping Floors

Floors that slope noticeably or feel bouncy underfoot may indicate joist damage, foundation problems, or structural inadequacy. A marble test can help identify subtle slopes.

4. Wall Cracks

Diagonal cracks emanating from window and door corners, or horizontal cracks along walls, often indicate structural movement. Interior drywall cracks may also signal foundation issues.

When to Call a Structural Engineer

If you notice any of these warning signs, consulting with a licensed structural engineer is the safest course of action. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming major repairs and protect your investment.

At Palisade Engineering, we provide thorough structural assessments for homes and businesses throughout Reno and Northern Nevada. Our team can identify the root cause of structural issues and recommend appropriate solutions.

Foundation Crack Repair

Understanding crack types, causes, and when professional repair is needed.

How to Determine if a Wall is Load Bearing

Key indicators to identify load-bearing walls before renovation.

Free Download

Residential Remodel Prep Kit

Spotted structural issues? Our free guide covers next steps — what to document, when to call an engineer, and what repairs typically cost.

Download the Free Guide

Spotted Signs of Structural Damage?

Don't wait for it to get worse. Our PE + SE licensed engineers will assess your structure through our residential or commercial services and recommend the right fix — not an expensive overreaction.

Schedule a Structural Assessment

Or call us directly: (775) 323-6633