What do structural engineers do?
Structural engineers focus on designing drawings and providing calculations for buildings and structures so that they are safe and capable of withstanding the elements to which they will be exposed to. It’s their role to make sure that the physical structure maintains its integrity and can handle the loads and forces that they will encounter over time.
Structural Engineers are required for consultation on both unique structures and everyday projects such as residential refurbishments and renovations, extensions, loft conversions and chimney breast removals. They work with a wide variety of clients such as homeowners, housing associations, building contractors, architects and designers just to name a few.
It is really important that your architect or designer works with a structural engineer right at the beginning of your project, because the information that they provide will confirm whether the design of your project will work practically. A Structural Engineer can provide details for the load-carrying structural system including live load dead load and environmental loads such as wind and thermal impacts. The engineer will analyse the architectural drawings and perform calculations which they will then add to the architectural plan. Once the plan is complete, a contractor can begin work.
When do you need to hire a structural engineer?
A structural engineer is typically required whenever there are structural changes made to an existing property. Such as, removing a load bearing wall, knocking out a chimney breast, or when a new structure is being designed such as an extension or loft conversion. They also work on new builds for residential, commercial and industrial buildings.
For more complex projects, you will also need plans from an architect or designer. However, both minor and major renovations/additions typically require a structural engineer. It’s crucial that your structural engineer understands all aspects of building construction including energy performance as well as structural components.
If you are planning a structural change to your home or commercial building, contact Neasden Structural Engineers. We help clients within a 10-mile radius, so if your project is in one of the following areas near Neasden get in touch:
Camden
Chiswick
Ealing
East Finchley
Edgware
Hampstead
Harrow
Kilburn
Shepherds Bush
Wembley
Willesden
No project is too big or too small. Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page if you would like answers to some commonly asked questions. Get in touch with our team of professional structural engineers in north west London today on 020 8088 2243.
