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.

When do I need a structural engineer?

You need a structural engineer when you remove or modify load-bearing walls, add a story or major addition, repair or underpin a foundation, build a custom home, suspect structural damage, or whenever your project requires PE-stamped plans for permitting.

What is the difference between a structural engineer and a civil engineer?

Civil engineering is the broad discipline that covers roads, bridges, water systems, and buildings. Structural engineering is a specialty within civil engineering focused on the load-bearing systems of buildings and other structures. All structural engineers are civil engineers, but not all civil engineers are structural engineers.

What is the difference between a PE and an SE license?

A PE (Professional Engineer) license authorizes engineering practice in a state. An SE (Structural Engineer) license is a specialized credential that requires advanced examination in seismic and wind design. Some states require an SE for certain building types; California is one example.

August 16, 2025

What Does a Structural Engineer Do?

Structural engineer analyzing building design and structural calculations

Structural engineers are the unsung heroes of the built environment. Every building you enter, bridge you cross, and stadium you visit was designed by structural engineers who ensured it would safely support its intended loads.

Construction workers on cherry picker at active building site — Palisade Engineering

Core Responsibilities

Structural Analysis

Engineers analyze how buildings respond to various loads including gravity, wind, seismic forces, and live loads from occupants. They use advanced software and engineering principles to ensure structures can safely resist these forces.

Design Development

Working from architectural plans, structural engineers design the bones of a building—foundations, columns, beams, walls, and floor systems. They select appropriate materials and determine member sizes.

Construction Documents

Engineers produce detailed drawings and specifications that guide construction. These documents communicate the design intent to contractors and serve as the basis for building permits.

Construction Support

During construction, structural engineers review shop drawings, answer contractor questions, and may visit the site to observe critical construction activities.

When Do You Need a Structural Engineer?

You typically need a structural engineer for new construction, renovations involving load-bearing elements, additions, investigating building damage, or any project requiring structural permits.

Why "Structural Engineer Near Me" Could Save Your Project

Why local expertise matters for your Reno construction project.

Foundation Crack Repair

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

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Residential Remodel Prep Kit

Thinking about a structural project? Download our free prep kit with checklists, cost ranges, and timeline guidance for residential projects.

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Ready to Start Your Structural Engineering Project?

Whether it's a new build, remodel, or inspection, browse our structural engineering services — we'll scope it and return a fixed-price quote, typically within 24–48 hours. PE + SE licensed.

Request a Quote

Or call us directly: (775) 323-6633