About Us

COMPANY OVERVIEW

Schnitzhofer & Associates is a structural engineering and consulting firm focused on solving complex building problems with clear, buildable plans.   

From evaluations and repair plans to full structural design, we focus on solutions that make sense in the field. You’ll get straight talk, clean drawings, and a path to a safe, code-ready structure. If the job calls for it, we can also build the solution we design.

MEET THE PRESIDENT

Who’s Leading the Project

James R. Schnitzhofer, P.E.

James R. Schnitzhofer, P.E.

President

One of the most rewarding parts of owning this firm is the opportunity to meet all our wonderful clients. I enjoy learning about you and what you do in the community. I try to practice patience and kindness while we navigate your complicated projects together.

I have a very high standard for the professional presentation of each of our designs, stemming from an extensive background in heavy and light commercial structural design, using state-of-the-art structural software, and keeping up with industry trends and technology.

I am currently restoring a Civil War Era Farmhouse on a 1900's Commercial Chicken Farm in Rockbridge County, VA.

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Community Involvement

Board of Directors – Education Committee Chair (Past)
Historic Staunton Foundation

Licenses & Certifications

Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation:
  • Professional Engineer (P.E.)
  • Commercial Improvement Contractor
  • Licensed Commercial Roofing Contractor
  • Licensed Masonry Contractor
  • Licensed Paint and Wall Covering Contractor
Commonwealth of Virginia:
  • General Contractor
Virginia Department of Fire Programs:
  • Firefighter II
National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT):
  • Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
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MEET THE TEAM

Schnitzhofer Building Contractors

Andy Bunch

Safety Officer

Firefighter EMT

Kegan Knott

General Construction

Firefighter EMT

Frequently Asked Questions

Have a quick question about our structural services, scheduling, or documentation? Start here. If you don’t see your question, reach out anytime.

General

Do you work on both residential and commercial projects?

Yes—Residential, Historic Properties, Commercial.

Do you serve my area?

Our core service area includes The Commonwealth of Virginia, Central and West Central Virginia, Staunton, Charlottesville, Lexington, the Shenandoah Valley, and nearby regions.

Are your deliverables PE-stamped?

Professional Engineering Designs will be Signed and Sealed by Licensed Structural Engineers (Professional Engineer, P.E.)

Can you review another engineer or contractor's plan?

We can provide Peer Reviews and Second Opinions

Engineering Services

What do you look for during an evaluation?

Evidence of Damage That Will Lead to the Proper Diagnosis of the Failure.

Do I need a geotechnical report?

Sometimes. Site conditions and scope drive the need—we’ll advise case-by-case.

Can you help without original drawings?

Yes. Field measurements and photographs are very helpful.

Do you coordinate with architects and MEP?

Absolutely

Contracting Services

Do you provide foundation and framing reinforcements?

Yes—Reinforcement Installations are produced, engineered and installed under Professional Engineer Oversight. We will secure permitting, Facility and Oversee Inspections, and our Professional Engineer staff provide Final Quality Control

How disruptive is reinforcement work?

We plan access, shoring, and sequencing to minimize disruption and keep spaces usable where possible.

Can you conceal reinforcements?

Our goal would be to conceal any reinforcements. We have proven successful in concealing structural reinforcements when the circumstances allow. We will discuss your options when we meet at your site.

Do you handle drainage corrections?

Our firm does not handle water intrusion, drainage, moisture damage, etc..

Scheduling & Pricing

How soon can you visit the site?

Generally, we will have an engineer available within about 10 business days.

What does an evaluation or design cost?

Please contact our office for project specific engineering consulting fees

Do you offer expedited service?

Depending upon the season, we may be able to accommodate. However, expect premium fees. We recommend that you call and talk to us, so we can better understand the need for a rush.

Can you start with a quick opinion from photos?

In certain circumstances, yes. However, approximately 95% of engineering assessments require a field visit.

Permits & Documentation

Will your documents satisfy lenders, insurers, and AHJs?

That’s our goal. We tailor deliverables to the request and respond to typical comments.

Can you re-inspect after repairs?

Yes. We can verify corrections and issue updated documentation.

Do you provide monitoring reports?

Yes—provided our firm installs the monitoring devices and is contracted to complete/document the reading at a pre-determined frequency.

Can you coordinate with my contractor during review?

Absolutely.

 

 

   

 

CONTACT US

Schedule a Consultation for Pricing & Next Steps

Let’s Talk About Your Project