Understanding Structural Engineers

Posted on: 19 June 2020

A structural engineer is a specialist who designs a structure in a way that ensures it remains erect, stable and rigid for the longest time possible. This means that a structural engineer needs to make calculations after considering the soil and rock properties of the area the structure is to be built and potential man-made (work activities) and natural (earthquakes and floods) activities that may threaten the stability of the structure.

The structural engineer should also liaise with other construction specialists like architects and builders so that their input is also considered during planning and designing. Here are other important things you might need to know about structural engineers:

When Do You Need a Structural Engineer?

You need a structural engineer any time you are building a structure, be it for residential or commercial purposes. The structural engineer is required at the very first stage of the construction process, which is usually the planning and design stage. This is the most crucial stage because it forms the blueprint of the entire construction project.

If you fail to use a structural engineer, it means that the stability and integrity of your structure won't be guaranteed and it might collapse in the future. A collapsed structure can cause a lot of destruction and lead to injuries and even loss of life.

Choosing a Structural Engineer

Of course, there are many types of structures. Depending on what you are building, you need to find a structural engineer in that field. What does this mean? If you are constructing a home, find a residential structural engineer who specialises in the construction of the type of home you want to build. Likewise, if you are building a commercial building, find a commercial structural engineer who specialises in the construction of the type of building you want to build, including the activities to be carried out in it.

This is important because it guarantees you quality work. You can be sure that the structural engineer has carried out similar projects in the past and knows what there is to know about them. You get to avoid problems, a waste of your hard-earned money and project delays or stalls.

Is a Structural Engineer Expensive?

Structural engineering services can seem expensive; however, you should look at them as investments.  From the above, you know what can happen if you don't use structural engineering services.

The fee charged by the structural engineer usually depends on the size of the project and its total cost. Most structural engineers might charge a percentage of the total cost of the project. For more information, reach out to a structural engineer in your area. 

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