Have you ever marvelled at a tall building or a unique structure and wondered how it manages to stay upright? Although architects may design outstanding building concepts and create imaginative new ideas, it all comes down to structural engineers to determine what ideas are feasible and which ones need to be adjusted.
Structural engineering is all about determining the horizontal and vertical loads a structure might face. For instance, a structural engineer can anticipate how much weight a floor needs to support when the building is full of people, furniture, and other elements. Without structural engineering, buildings wouldn’t be able to reliably withstand the elements, gravity, and everyday use, so it’s vital for construction projects to have a structural engineer on board. Here are just a few common situations where structural engineering can be highly beneficial:
- Major Home Renovations — Before you start tearing out your kitchen appliances or knocking down walls to extend your living space, consider consulting with a structural engineer to determine if your home can support these kinds of renovations. They’ll be able to assess your plans and recommend safer solutions to maintain your home’s integrity.
- Commercial Building Assessments — Structural engineering is key for assessing the load-bearing capacities of commercial facilities and identifying potential upgrades to further enhance the stability of the building.
- Construction Oversight — A structural engineer can oversee the construction phase to make sure the approved design is being implemented precisely by the construction crew. They’re equipped to catch potential safety issues, make sure the building is up to code, and provide guidance when needed.