Robert Harley Associates

Structural engineers design structures ranging from houses, sports stadia, hospitals to bridges and towers

They use mathematics to calculate the stress that could arise at each point in the structure, and simulate and model possible situations, such as high winds and earth movements.

When construction has begun, they are  involved in inspecting the work and advising contractors.

Structural engineers ensure that structures serve their function without collapsing, bending, twisting or vibrating in undesirable ways. Their aim is to make efficient use of funds and materials to achieve these structural goals.

Typical work activities include:

• calculating the pressures, stresses and strains that each component, such as a beam or lintel,
• considering the strength of various materials, e.g. timber, concrete, steel and brick,
• liaising with other designers, including architects, to reach agreement about safe design,
• recommending removal or repair of defective parts or re-building the entire structure,
• communicating the design of a structure through drawings, specifications and computer models so that others can construct it;
• ensuring that newly erected buildings are structurally sound,
• creating drawing in Cad software to enable contractors to build constructions,

Do you need a structural engineer?

If you are thinking about an extension to your house, pulling down a wall, widening a corridor, getting rid of chimney, or building a new house you definately need a structural engineer.

Tags:structural engineer