Did you know, the moment humans found the need to build shelter, they found the need for structural engineering? It’s true! It’s actually one of the oldest types of engineering. Since the first concept of adhering branches together with natural materials like vines in efforts of creating shelter; structural engineering has been a HUGE, as well as vital part of human life. Nowadays, we have come a LONG way from huts made of branches. Today structures have become increasingly impressive; whilst others can even be considered full-on jaw dropping works of art. (Not that a hut made out of completely raw materials isn’t entirely resourceful as well as incredibly impressive on its own.)
So it’s safe to say, structural engineering has certainly evolved over time; but what is it exactly? We’ve broken all the juicy details down! We’ll find out WHAT structural engineering is, what a structural engineer does, and when you may need one. Finally, we’ll highlight the difference between a structural engineer and an architect.
WHAT IS STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING?
Structural Engineering is a specified sector within civil engineering. Structural Engineering by literal definition, according to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, reads: “a branch of civil engineering dealing primarily with the design and construction of structures (such as bridges, buildings, dams)“. This sector of engineering focuses on the framework of structures and how to design them. Additionally, whilst designing the framework to these structures, multiple variables come into play that need to be considered for safety purposes. These variables include the structures ability to withstand stress and pressure of the environment. For example, a bridge that has to have the strength and durability to handle the heavy load of multiple cars, as well as safely endure the ever-changing weight distribution. Can you imagine if bridges had a see-saw effect the minute a car drove onto one side? The results would be disastrous. But thankfully, we have structural engineering!
WHAT DOES A STRUCTURAL ENGINEER DO?
What does a structural engineer do? We’re glad you asked! Structural engineers are the people who actually create and design drawings and specifications for structures to be built. They perform all the calculations required to make sure said structures will be sturdy and safe, while also being able to handle stress and weight loads, as mentioned earlier. Moreover, they “analyze and design the gravity support and lateral force resistance of buildings, bridges and other structures“. More tasks that fall under the responsibility of a structural engineer include, but are not limited to: reviewing the work of other engineers to check for any errors or provide improvements, write evaluations and reports on specified structures, as well as physically observe construction sites.
RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:
MyMajors.com, lists a structural engineer’s job to include:
- Analyzing blueprints, maps, reports, and topographical and geological data;
- Estimating the cost and quantities of materials, equipment and labor;
- Computing load and grade requirements, water flow rates and material stress factors to determine design specifications;
- Inspecting project sites to monitor progress and ensure the project is being constructed according to design specifications;
- Conducting studies of traffic patterns or environmental conditions to identify potential problems and assess how they will affect the project.
LICENSE REQUIRED
Structural Engineering requires a professional engineer’s license to be obtained in order to practice in the field. Licenses are acquired after the completion of a prescribed amount of schooling, work experience, and finally successfully passing a large exam. Different states may demand different requirements.
Similarly, structures in different states have different requirements. But this makes perfect sense if you think about it. Buildings in California need to be built to standards that can withstand earthquakes. While buildings in Florida, especially those on the coasts, need to be built to withstand hurricanes. Structural engineers take all of these elemental variables into consideration when designing a building; as well as when offering technical advice regarding the project.
When Do I Need a Structural Engineer?
Structural engineers are the silent heroes of our everyday lives. The roofs above our heads in our homes, offices, restaurants, movie theaters, libraries, schools, hospitals, coffee shops etc. are all thanks to the careful calculations and skilled analysis of structural engineers.
You may even find yourself in the market for a structural engineer one day! Some of the reasons you may want to hire a structural engineer would be for:
- Residential renovations
- Commercial renovations
- Tenant improvements
- Additions
Ilya Engineering is a structural engineering firm with over 20 years of experience serving clients in Los Angeles county. Give us a call for a free consultation.
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