​Why do I need a Structural Engineer?

If you've been told that you need a structural engineer before you move forward with a home renovation or adding space to your office, you may wonder ‘why do I need a structural engineer?’ There are quite a few good reasons you should hire a structural engineer before any construction project. It may all seem a bit too confusing when you think about it, but really, it's not that hard to understand. Like any job, there is a certain amount of education and experience that is required to be a structural engineer. Let's take a closer look.

​What is a Structural Engineer?

​To understand why you need a structural engineer, you should be aware of what a structural engineer does. A structural engineer has the education, licensing, and experience to assess a construction project's structural integrity. They examine plans, take measurements, and analyse data to ensure that a house or building is structurally safe. They make recommendations to the architect and builders that will improve the safety of the structure being built.

​When is a Structural Engineer required?

• When building an extension on a house or building, a structural engineer is needed to ensure the right fit.
• When converting a loft, a structural engineer makes sure the design is structurally sound
• When adding solar panels to a structure, a structural engineer will ensure the stress on the roof is not too great.
• When taking down a chimney breast a structural engineer will find the safest way to demolish it and ensuring that the house remains structurally strong on each floor.
• When modifying or knocking down internal load-bearing walls, a structural engineer will ensure that the ceiling won't collapse due to the alterations.
• When adding doors or windows, a structural engineer will recommend sizes and provide installation instructions.
• When an examination for defects needs to be done to a house or building, a structural engineer can recognise signs of stress on a building.

​What does a Structural Engineer do?

​A structural engineer deals with the construction of a building and the materials proposed and ensures that there is structural integrity to keep the building safe for years to come. For example, they determine what load a beam in a house or an internal wall can withstand. With knowledge of these facts, they assist the architect in designing a house or building that can hold up against the given physical forces in the environment where they will be constructed. The engineer will test the design before construction to be sure that it will hold up to the area's physical elements, such as being built on an incline or hilltop.
The whole testing process and re-testing before construction ensure that the building will not fall short of vertical and horizontal load requirements.

​Essex Structural Engineers can help with your building project

​Regardless of whether your project is restoring an existing property or constructing something from scratch, we can help. If you are in Essex or the surrounding areas and require our help, we are happy to provide it. One of our staff members will be in contact to discuss your project. Whether it's a kitchen extension, tearing down an internal wall, or replacing a roof; we can help. Don't go it alone with your building project; give Essex Structural Engineers in Brentwood a call today on 01277 554 147.