As everyone who works in the construction industry will know, structural engineers play a crucial role in all kinds of projects.
From the building of new domestic houses to commercial properties and even industrial structures like bridges, if it wasn’t for the knowledge, expertise and hard work of structural engineers it would not be possible for projects to be completed.
But while we all know the importance of their role, what does a structural engineer actually do?
Well, in this article the team here at IKT Consulting will answer that exact question, taking a closer look at the jobs a structural engineer performs and why they’re so important to construction projects.
Read on to find out more.
What is a structural engineer?
Before we turn our attention to their actual job, let’s first establish what a structural engineer actually does.
Structural engineering is a facet of civil engineering and is a highly specialist role. Primarily, a structural engineer is concerned with the structural stability of buildings and their main job is to make sure structures can withstand high loads and do not collapse.
Structural engineers work on all manner of projects, from brand-new buildings or structures that are being constructed to significant renovations that are taking place.
What does a structural engineer do?
As mentioned above, structural engineers specialise in the structure of buildings and they’re concerned with ensuring structures are safe for people to use. First and foremost, this involves ensuring the building or structure is strong and durable and is not at risk of collapse.
But how do structural engineers do this?
Well, the very first step is for the structural engineers to assess plans for the project to make sure the structure will be able to suitably withstand heavy loads, resist forces and handle any adverse weather conditions that are present in the area. All of this is done to achieve the same goal of safety. Usually, the structural engineers will create drawings that show how this will be done and will include key information regarding the materials that should be used during the build.
This is not just the case for new buildings or structures that are being constructed. Structural engineers will follow the same, or similar, processes when renovations are taking place. For example, removing chimney breasts, installing extensions, building loft conversions and much more. During these projects, structural engineers will always need to be consulted to ensure the changes do not impact the structural integrity of the building.
In particular, structural engineers will focus on load-bearing and structural elements such as support beams, frames and joints that are in place to keep a building or structure upright. As well as buildings, the expertise of a structural engineer may be sought after to advise on electrical systems, sewage works, fire suppression systems and more.
While the job is closely aligned with civil engineers and architects, the role of a structural engineer is regarded to be much more specialist.
Some of the main tasks structural engineers carry out include:
- Preparing reports, drawings and building designs
- Making structural calculations about loads and stresses
- Researching and recommending the most appropriate building materials
- Advising on the most suitable construction methods
- Offering technical advice
- Inspecting work throughout the construction process to ensure it meets the required standard
- Ensuring the work is compliant with the relevant building regulations
- Helping to obtain planning permissions
- Liaising with other professional staff like architects
- Monitoring and inspecting work
- Administering contracts
- And much more
Benefits of structural engineers
Structural engineers play a crucial role in the design, analysis and construction of buildings and infrastructure. Their expertise is vital in a wide range of projects and it ensures the safety, stability and durability of structures.
As well as ensuring your project complies with all of the relevant legal and health and safety legislation, other benefits of hiring a structural engineer include:
- Safety assurance - Structural engineers prioritise safety in their designs, ensuring that structures can withstand various loads including environmental forces and potential hazards. They always adhere to building codes and standards that guarantee the constructed building meets the necessary safety regulations.
- Optimised design - While it is primarily the role of architects to focus on design and aesthetics, structural engineers can also play their part. Structural engineers will aim to create efficient and cost-effective designs, optimising the use of materials and resources while meeting project requirements and safety standards.
- Risk mitigation - Whether domestic, commercial or industrial, the safety of occupants and users within any type of building is paramount. By conducting thorough analyses and assessments, structural engineers are able to identify potential risks and challenges early in the design process. This allows for proactive measures to be taken which will mitigate the risks and prevent significant structural failures.
- Compliance with regulations - All structural engineers are extremely knowledgeable and fully au fait with the relevant local building codes and regulations. They ensure that the designed structures always comply with these standards, securing the necessary approvals and permits needed for the construction.
- Innovative solutions - Structural engineers use their expertise to find innovative solutions to design challenges. They will consider new materials, innovative construction techniques and technologies to improve efficiency and sustainability. This can also help save a project money. Through careful planning and design, structural engineers help to minimise construction costs. They will choose the appropriate materials, optimise structural systems and reduce the risk of costly modifications during construction.
Overall, the involvement of a structural engineer in construction projects is essential for ensuring safety, optimising design and achieving cost-effective, resilient and durable structures.
Now you know the role of a structural engineer and the range of comprehensive benefits they bring, let’s establish when you may need to acquire the services of one.
When do I need a structural engineer?
Structural engineers can frequently be found on construction sites across the country, contributing to both domestic and commercial projects. No matter what type of work you’re carrying out, if you need to be sure that the structure is safe and stable, a structural engineer will almost always be needed. In fact, it’s only small-scale residential projects where you may not require one. A good rule of thumb is that whenever the structure of a building is being altered or built, you will need a structural engineer.
Let’s look specifically at some of the instances when you should consider hiring a structural engineer.
For the construction of new structures
Whenever anything new is being built, certain regulations and legal requirements will need to be complied with.
A structural engineer will be required to ensure the new building or structure is structurally sound, and this is the case for every kind of project.
Some examples of new projects where structural engineers can help include:
- New houses
- New residential apartment buildings
- New bridges
- New hospitals
- New schools
- New sports stadiums
- And much more
Essentially, any new structure will always need the support of a professional structural engineer.
For renovations
In addition to new projects, structural engineers are often required when renovations are being undertaken on existing structures.
This is especially the case when the improvements being made have the potential to impact the structure of a building. Structural engineers will provide structural drawings and calculations for these projects in much the same way they would for new projects. You may also need structural engineers to provide this information to building control authorities as part of ensuring the project is compliant.
Typically, the following renovations will require the supervision of a structural engineer:
- Building extensions
- Modifying doors and windows
- Installing solar panels
- Loft conversions
- Garage conversions
- Removing or modifying internal walls
- Underpinning floors
- Removing chimney breasts
This list is not exhaustive and there are plenty of other examples where a structural engineer will certainly be needed. It’s important to note that anything that changes the structure of the property will need a structural engineer.
For structural inspections
If you’ve noticed any signs of subsidence in a property or structure, such as cracking walls or sagging ceilings or roofs, you’ll almost certainly need to call in the expertise of structural engineers to advise.
In these instances, it’s likely that a structural inspection will need to be conducted which can highlight any issues and recommend solutions. It’s important these problems are not ignored as they could compromise the integrity of the building and become a safety risk.
Even if you notice small cracks or other causes of concern, it’s always worthwhile to get it assessed by the experts.
For an expert witness
If, for whatever reason, you find yourself in a dispute or disagreement with a third party over a structural issue, you can call in the services of a structural engineer to act as an expert witness.
They will be able to provide an expert, unbiased view on the issue, compiling a report that outlines what has occurred and who is liable. Usually, chartered surveyors can also act as an expert witness, but a professional structural engineer will be able to offer a more specialist view due to their enhanced expertise.
If you're in need of a structural engineer than look no further, IKT Consulting are here to help, simply contact us today.
