Built on Engineering Precision.
Driven by Real-World Answers.
At Schatz Structures, we blend structural engineering with advanced building envelope science. We turn complex structural risks and hidden moisture issues into clear, actionable solutions.
Who We Are
Most structural failures and costly repair projects stem from a single, overlooked culprit: water where it doesn't belong.
Founded on the principle that practical engineering beats over-designed complexity every time, Schatz Structures & Waterproofing provides full-service structural engineering and building enclosure consulting across the San Francisco Bay Area and throughout the western United States.
Whether we are evaluating a 35-story residential tower, helping an HOA navigate SB 326/SB 721 balcony inspection compliance, or testifying as experts in construction defect litigation, our mission remains simple: Protect the physical integrity of your building while safeguarding your financial investment.
Why Our Dual-Discipline Approach Works
Many engineering firms handle the bones of a building.
Waterproofing consultants handle the skin.
We know both.
Because structural decay and water intrusion are deeply connected, analyzing them in isolation leads to missed root causes and recurring costs. By combining structural design with building envelope science, we deliver unified solutions that last for decades—not just until the next rainy season.
How We Help Our Partners
Property Managers & HOA Boards
We eliminate the guesswork from reserve studies, balcony compliance inspections, and repair planning. We speak plain English, not technical jargon, so board members can make confident decisions.
Contractors & Builders
We create detailed, real-world construction documents. We educate installers on design intent, reducing job-site RFIs and preventing costly rework.
Architects & Building Owners
We act as collaborative design partners who protect your architectural vision while ensuring the structure is constructible, code-compliant, and watertight.
Attorneys & Legal Teams
We provide objective, data-driven forensic investigations and clear expert testimony that holds up under cross-examination.
Our Core Principles
Informed Decision-Making Over Guesswork
We pride ourselves on giving building owners, property managers, and legal teams the exact data they need to make reasoned, confident choices about their risk profile and budget. We translate complex structural conditions into clear, actionable advice so you stay in total control of your investment.
Educating both the Owner and the Installer
No one wants to experience unintended water. But a waterproof envelope specification is only as good as its execution on the job site. We believe it is just as critical to educate contractors and installers on our design intent as it is to educate owners on risk. When everyone understands the why behind a detail, errors plummet and assemblies last.
Practical Real-World Performance
We are professional design consultants dedicated to ensuring safe, practical structures that effectively limit water-induced damage. Every detail we draft, calculation we make, and inspection we perform is grounded in real-world constructability, not just theoretical textbook math.
Strategic Partners
Fields Design, Inc.
We regularly share knowledge and discuss relevant industry topics with Fields Design, Inc. Their principal, Erik Giesen-Fields, is a licensed architect and attorney, and has extensive experience in building envelope design. With complimentary skill sets, we assist each to provide our clients with a range of services related to evaluations and repairs of failed building envelopes.
www.fieldsdsgn.com | (510) 590-6400 | info@fieldsdsgn.com
Ready to Solve Your Structural or Waterproofing Challenge?
Let's discuss your project, evaluate your risk, and build a path forward.