Introduction

Historically, the majority of repairs to structural timbers have been carried out using traditional methods involving either the use of steel plates and bolts (Flitch Plates) or a variety of timber scarf joints.

Although many of these traditional repairs have been subject to engineering calculation and design, it has to be assumed that the majority of repairs have been based on experience and good judgement.

A major reason for this assumption is that very few Contractors in the Building Conservation Industry have their own in-house qualified Structural Engineers.

For the same reason most structural repairs involving a resin component will not have been subject to qualified engineering design.

The effects of legislation and a greater awareness of contractual responsibilities are leading to increased levels of engineering involvement in the building conservation industry.

Regardless of the repair method adopted there will often be a legal requirement to provide Structural Calculations.

In the case of upgrading a structure, (e.g. increasing the floor loading from domestic to commercial capacity), Structural Calculations will always be required, hence a Structural Engineer will be involved from the outset.

Obtaining Structural Calculations

There are three ways in which we provide Designs to contractors, clients or Engineers;

1. Our own free of charge Design, produced from the beam information supplied by telephone, fax or E Mail. This is an ideal starting point for a costing, to avoid expensive Design confirmation before the feasibility has been assessed by comparing the costs with other proposals.
2. Our internal Engineering Check Calculation, using the Straight Line Theory of Elasticity, which can be passed to the Client's Qualified Structural Engineer for indemnification.
3. Use of our external Independent Structural Engineers, who will provide an Indemnified Calculation and provide any adjustments to our Design for final costing.

Technical Help - 01626 331351

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