A Structural Engineer's Duties For A Home Renovation Project
A structural engineer is an integral person who will determine the safety of a proposed building project and work jointly with an architect, a designer, or a contractor who you have hired to complete a minor or major renovation project. If you wish to combine your kitchen and dining room to acquire a spacious area that feels more welcoming, contact a structural engineer before the project begins.
The Permit And Walkthrough
Construction permits ensure that projects are completed properly and meet the guidelines set for a specific residential area. Even though you are completing a project that is going to be conducted indoors, you will need to acquire a permit before permanent changes are made to your residence.
Upon acquiring a permit, contact a structural engineer and make an appointment for them to conduct a walkthrough of your residence The integrity of the walls and flooring inside of your home will ensure that your residence is safe enough to occupy.
The wall that is being removed to allow for the expansion of the kitchen and dining room duo will need to be visually and physically inspected. If the wall is one that is weight-bearing, it cannot be removed without an alternate support system implemented. A structural engineer may suggest a beam and column setup, which will act in the same manner as the wall.
The Construction Plans
When a large construction project is being conducted, such as one that involves adding a wing to a home or building an entirely new building or home, a structural engineer is necessary from the onset of a project. They will meet with an architect and a design team, to make proposals about the setup of a new feature or building and the materials that will be effective in acquiring the desired results.
For a smaller project, such as the one you are contemplating, the structural engineer will collaborate with the building contractor you hire. No changes will be made to your residence until the engineer and the contractor have formed an agreement. You will be provided with details about the materials that are necessary for the project and any changes to your initial plans.
If the project is fairly simple to perform, the engineer may only need to complete an inspection and a proposal. For a more complex project that will take longer to execute, the structural engineer may inspect the progress of the construction after each phase is complete.
To learn more, contact a structural engineering service.