Structural Engineering

Structural Engineers work to advise property owners on the technical considerations and processes and the creative possibilities for alterations and developments to your property. Most commonly structural engineers will analyse ideas that a property owner has, to change or develop their property and advise on the necessary materials, benefits and limitations effecting their ideas and creative solutions to make the ideas become reality.

The key considerations that a Structural Engineer will evaluate and advise on are; human, environmental and design elements that will or can give positive or negative impacts on the attainability of the design. These factors will vary from property to property, the inhabitants the structural load or pressure and other environmental factors (such as living near a body of water). Whilst these are the most important considerations a structural engineer will also pay close attention to the usability and whether the solution is fit for purpose as well as the general safety and stability of the structure. The key considerations that our structural engineers will evaluate;

Safety and Stability – First and foremostly our structural engineers prioritise the safety and stability of the proposed structural works. This analysis looks at a number of different factors that can impact the rate of wear, structural integrity and design of the work to ensure that consistently high standards are met and that support and stability is ensured or enhanced as part of every scope of work.

Materials – At a granular level a Structural Engineer will choose the appropriate materials for the job in order to create the desired effect, ensuring the stability and longevity of the work. Perhaps most importantly a Structural Engineer will utilise years of experience to promote the effective usage of materials (both new and innovative and tried and tested) to achieve the desired effect. With rapid advances in technical building materials and innovative implementation solutions our Structural Engineers will advise you on the best materials specifically tailored to your property, requirements and preference.

Assessment of feasibility – Taking into account your specifications of what a new feature will bring and how best to make your plans come to fruition our Structural Engineers will assess the feasibility, time frame, cost and scope for your project to ensure that work is completed on time and to an exceptional standard.

Design and implementation – After assessing the requirements and limitations impacting the structure, our team will then begin the process of designing and subsequently building. This phase of the work encompasses all the findings

from the previous stages to source the most appropriate materials, build to ensure quality and longevity and execute solutions with creative and innovative solutions which are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing as per your personal requirements.

Reporting – Each of the phases of the Structural Engineering process are logged, documented and systematically evaluated to ensure that results are achieved on time every time. At a more detailed level these reports may include designs and drawings, load and stress calculations, construction materials analysis, technical guidance, assistance obtaining planning permissions and liaising with other construction or building personnel to ensure synchronicity and cooperation throughout the project lifespan.

Common jobs – Most commonly a Structural Engineer will assist with the following property alterations or enhancements;

• Modifications to doors, windows, hallways and archways
• Extending the property either by building extension, loft or basement
• Fitment of energy efficient or waste reducing components (e.g. solar panels)
• Removal or addition of internal walls and other partitions
• Removal, expansion or alternation to period or special features (e.g. chimney breast)
• Alterations to flooring, skirting and coves

This list in by no means conclusive and if you have a particular project in mind, we are always happy to hear from customers requesting any bespoke work.

The Process

Our Structural Engineering process differs dependant on your needs, property type and other mitigating factors. Below is a general overview of the key deliverables and responsibilities that a Structural Engineer will prepare and advise on throughout the course of a project: