Understanding when you need a structural engineer can be confusing. Here are 3 of the biggest reasons why you may need to call a structural engineer.
- Structural Inspections of Existing Buildings
You might need a structural inspection for an existing building for a variety of reasons. If you are buying or selling a home, a structural engineer is called if there is suspicion of structural issues in the foundation of the property. The engineer can provide the sellers and buyers with an analysis of the structure as well as suggestions for cost-effective solutions for maintenance and/or repairs needed.
When homeowners notice cracks on foundation walls, bowing walls, sloping floors, and flooding they should call a professional engineer to properly diagnose the issue and give the best solutions to any structural problems. Unchecked foundation issues can lead to more serious and costly problems if they’re not properly addressed. A structural engineer can help find the root of the problem and provide property owners with clear and economical ways of fixing the issues.
Lastly, A structural inspection is the best line of defense against getting any repairs or maintenance work done that are unnecessary. A structural engineer can give property owners a structural assessment report that is unbiased and that can be given to any contractor to get comparable quotes on the same work. They are hired to help the property owner identify the problem and solve it in the simplest, most beneficial way possible.
- Making changes to the building structure
When you want to alter your property by removing walls for renovation, extending the property, adding floors, or even adding solar panels to the roof you will want to contact a structural engineer. Ensuring that load bearing walls or beams can withstand additional weight is essential. Not considering these load structures can cause severe structural issues after time and may even cause a structure to collapse. Checking on these parts of the structure before it’s too late can save you time, money, and headaches down the line.
- Obtaining permits or permission from townships/Department of Buildings
Most construction projects that plan to change the layout of a home will require permission from their respective townships or Buildings department. You will need signed and sealed structural engineer plans that make sure that the design can withstand any foreseen weight or pressure that will be placed on the structure. Engineers examine structures carefully to understand the capacity of buildings, and make sure that the design is strong and flexible so that it’s secure and functional. They also make sure that proper materials are used to guarantee the durability of the building.
Remember, A Structural Engineer has all the right qualifications
Structural engineers have vast knowledge about structures and how they work. Structural engineering is a specialty within civil engineering that must have a bachelor’s degree. They must also complete a five-year internship to apply for their license. During this training, engineers learn about structural systems, repairing the foundation of homes, and residential and commercial foundation inspections. Their concentrated training is meant for them to be able to ensure a structure can withstand natural forces such as gravity, wind, and any other environmental forces by making sure its strong, rigid, and has the right materials.
