Structural Design and Analysis Services

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At SurfZone Engineering, we specialize in delivering innovative and precise structural design and structural analysis solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial projects. Our expertise includes everything from foundation design to stamped structural plans, ensuring that your structures meet code requirements and perform with long-lasting integrity.

Serving Massachusetts, including Boston, and surrounding areas, our team of licensed structural engineers is committed to upholding the highest standards of safety, quality, and compliance with the Massachusetts Building Code (CMR 780) and International Building Code (IBC).

Our Structural Design and Analysis Expertise

Ground up and Addition Structural Design

  • Structural design of ground up projects

  • Structural design of additions to the existing structures.

  • Structural design of raising addition and dormers.

Load Analysis and Equipment Assessments

  • Comprehensive structural analysis and load calculation of floor framing systems for heavy loads, such as gyms, hot tubs, fish tanks, etc.

  • Structural assessment and structural analysis of roof framing systems for solar panels, HVAC systems, roof deck, and other rooftop installations.

Structural Retrofit and Rehabilitation

  • Custom retrofit solutions for compromised framing systems affected by cracks, termite damage, fire, or rot.

  • Reinforcing foundations by Helical pile, underpinning, or bench footing to address issues like settling, bowing, or bulging.

  • Structural design of the foundation reinforcement for lowering the basement floor. 

Foundation and Footing Design

  • Expert foundation design using reinforced concrete, reinforced CMU blocks, underpinning solutions, and helical pile systems for challenging soil conditions.

  • Tailored footing plans to ensure structural stability in various environments.

Custom Structural Design Solutions

  • Durable retaining wall designs using reinforced concrete, CMU block, or Geogrid systems.

  • Development of stamped structural plans for multi-level structures, roof systems, and cathedral ceilings.

  • Beam and column designs for remodeling projects, including lally column removal and steel reinforcements.

Specialized Structural Applications

  • Unique structural designs for performance stages, research facilities, and multi-functional spaces.

  • Creative solutions for artistic and architectural innovations.

Sample Projects for Structural Design and Analysis

  • Roof Framing Design Cambridge, MA

    Roof Framing Design

    📍 Location: Cambridge, MA

    Professional Roof Framing Design for Structural Integrity

    SurfZone Engineering provided a comprehensive roof framing design for a property in Cambridge, including exterior balloon framing wall reinforcements for new floors and remodeling plans. The design also addressed structural concerns by redesigning the first and second-floor main beams to enable load-bearing wall removals. This project highlights our expertise in analyzing and upgrading complex framing systems for client satisfaction and architectural needs.

  • Retaining Wall Design

    📍 Location: Somerville, MA

    Geogrid Segmental Retaining Wall for Stability

    SurfZone Engineering developed a geogrid-reinforced retaining wall for a property in Somerville. The design featured an 8-foot retaining wall with AB blocks, drainage systems, and filter fabric to prevent soil infiltration. These advanced engineering solutions ensured long-term stability and durability, addressing lateral load concerns effectively.

  • Structural Frame Design

    📍 Location: Wellesley, MA

    Comprehensive Structural Frame Design for Renovations

    SurfZone Engineering delivered a full structural frame design for a property in Wellesley. This project involved a complete floor framing system inspection, as-built structural plan development, and the design of a retrofit plan. Our tailored approach resolved framing and foundation issues, ensuring robust upgrades to multi-staged built structures.

  • Artistic Swing Design

    📍 Location: Boston, MA

    Unique Structural Analysis for a Public Art Installation

    SurfZone Engineering completed a detailed structural analysis and design for an artistic swing in Boston. Collaborating with the artist and community, we created a tailored solution combining load calculations with aesthetic appeal, ensuring durability and safety. This project exemplifies our expertise in nonconventional and innovative structural engineering.

  • Dormer Roof Analysis

    📍 Location: Somerville, MA

    Roof Framing Analysis for a Historical Multifamily Building

    For a 100+ year-old property in Somerville, SurfZone Engineering conducted an in-depth roof framing analysis. The project included custom ridge beam-rafter connections and rafter reinforcements to enhance the structure's integrity under snow, wind, and lateral loads. This detailed work underscores our proficiency in dormer and roof framing systems.

  • Custom Roof Deck Framing

    📍 Location: Boston, MA

    Independent Roof Deck Framing for Urban Properties

    SurfZone Engineering designed a custom roof deck framing system in Boston, incorporating steel beams, guard posts, and secure parapet support. By eliminating the need for interior reinforcements, the design minimized disruption to the client. The project also included fire escape designs to meet City of Boston egress requirements.

  • Structural Addition Design

    📍 Location: Sherborn, MA

    Structural Design for Residential Additions

    SurfZone Engineering created a structural design for a residential addition in Sherborn. The project included LVL beams, reinforced concrete footings, and a floor and roof framing system. Our design overcame challenges like low ceiling heights while ensuring compliance with Massachusetts building codes.

  • Community Center Framing Design

    📍 Location: Jamaica Plain, MA

    Robust Structural System for a Historical Building

    SurfZone Engineering designed a new structural system for a performance stage and second-floor framing of a 100+ year-old community center in Jamaica Plain. The project featured steel beams, LVL joists, and reinforced footings to support live loads and integrate with existing brick foundations. This comprehensive design enhanced the safety and durability of the building.

Why Choose SurfZone Engineering?

  • Massachusetts Expertise: With in-depth knowledge of local codes and environmental challenges, we offer customized solutions for projects across the state.

  • Precision and Innovation: From advanced analysis to cutting-edge plans, our designs optimize performance and cost-efficiency.

  • Code-Compliant Stamped Plans: Our engineers provide stamped structural plans to ensure seamless approvals and hassle-free project execution.

FAQs About Structural Design and Analysis

What is structural analysis, and why is it important?

  • Structural analysis evaluates how forces like weight, wind, and snow affect a structure. It’s critical for ensuring safety, stability, and compliance in construction projects.

How do stamped structural plans support project success?

  • Stamped structural plans are required to pull the permit and certify that designs meet local building codes and ensure safe construction.

Can SurfZone assist with foundation issues?

  • Yes, we specialize in foundation design and reinforcement, addressing problems like sinking, cracking, and bowing foundations with durable, cost-effective solutions.

Related Services

Contact Us

From load analysis to foundation design and stamped plans, SurfZone Engineering offers comprehensive structural solutions tailored to your needs.
Contact us at (617-299-0722) or email us at contacts@SurfZoneEngineering.com to schedule a consultation today.