Structural Engineering Firms | DenverYou may be experiencing foundation troubles and are unsure where to begin. Does it matter if it's with a foundation repair firm or a structural engineer? Some structural engineers would encourage you to use one at all times (hmmm... I wonder why?). Some foundation repair businesses may inform you that you do not require their services (also wondering why). You are hesitant to ask a salesman whether you require repairs. You have heard horror stories of other people'tu007. You really don't know what to do here... Denver Structural Engineering FirmOur Structural Engineering Firm in Denver, Colorado has been assessing foundations for over 35 years. We understand and can explain the importance of structural engineers in the foundation repair sector. We don't believe it's always one or the other. We know that there are times and reasons to seek the advice and experience of a structural engineer. However, it is not always essential. This article will discuss the most common instances in which structural engineers are the first and best call to make when it comes to your home's foundation, as well as why. Is it Required to Obtain a Structural Engineer Report for a Foundation Repair?A structural engineering analysis is not needed in most regions of Colorado prior to foundation repairs. The urban centers of Denver are well-known outliers to this rule. You would not be required to hire a structural engineer somewhere else. This will save you money because you will have to pay for these reports out of pocket. If you do not live in Colorado, you will need to research your local regulations with your municipality. Most foundation repair firms do not employ a professional structural engineer, but they should be able to suggest a few options in their service region. Foundation Repair Plans vs. Structural Engineering ReportsStructural engineering reports and foundation repair plans are not the same. Each has a unique set of facts, focus, and outcome for the homeowner. In summary, an engineering report documents the existing status of a foundation, whereas a repair plan specifies how to elevate and level a foundation. The purpose of an engineer's report is to examine and document the location and appearance of a foundation at the time of the inspection. This is what you could discover in a structural engineer report. Expect to Find This in an Engineering ReportAn engineer will collect and record measurements, as well as draw diagrams of the results. They may refer to this as a "foundation position evaluation," and they may give an elevation survey of your home using contour lines. As part of their report, structural engineers might include observational data, established technical norms, and original design blueprints. Structural engineering reports are classified into many tiers. The quantity of information and depth provided will vary, ranging from a largely verbal conversation to a full elevation and visual report. The homeowner should expect to pay between $500 and $900 for a primarily spoken report that includes elevations. You may see photographs of problems in your house as well as explanations for why they exist. Comments are made regarding whether a problem is within "acceptable" performance boundaries. Recommendations to correct circumstances and enhance any issues identified in the report may be made. You may have noticed that I used quotation marks around the word "acceptable" up there. Nothing escapes your notice, does it? The definition of "acceptable" in engineering terminology is critical. Engineers must follow detailed standards on how to calculate and determine what is acceptable or unacceptable. The Colorado Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) has prepared extensive papers such as "Guidelines for the Evaluation and Repair of Residential Foundations," as well as "Recommended Practice for the Design of Residential Foundations," which they must consult and follow. Engineering reports, like the ASCE guidelines mentioned above, tend to be technical and use industry phrases and higher-level engineering language that might be difficult for the public to grasp. If you have something in writing, pay attention to any indicated restrictions of the report. Foundation Repair PlansWe have mentioned that the purpose of a structural engineering report is to describe and explain the existing status of a foundation. In addition, these studies describe probable reasons and give recommendations. A foundation repair plan is not the same as a structural engineer report. Foundation repair plans detail the particular work that a foundation repair contractor will perform to restore a settling, tilted, or uneven foundation that is producing difficulties for your house. A price or quote for the cost of foundation repairs will also be included in the plans. The foundation repair plan diagram will illustrate where more support will be provided beneath the house. It is not concerned with the existing state of affairs, but rather with how to improve the functionality and performance of the foundation by elevating and leveling the house. Some foundation repair plans are just sketches on paper. Some are created with computer software. Some firms may even give elevation measurements, although not all do. Foundation repair plans will fluctuate based on the foundation repair contractor utilized and the kind of slab foundation repair performed. Some firms charge a fee for a foundation inspection and the accompanying foundation repair plans. Other businesses provide "free quotations" as part of their services. Pay close attention to any documented foundation repair plan terms and restrictions. Engineers' criteria should not be the only consideration for foundation repair companies. The goal of foundation repair is to make everything operate properly for the homeowner. For example, the angle of tilt of a foundation may meet ASCE criteria. But if your front door still doesn't open, latch, or lock properly, is that really *acceptable* to YOU? Check out this article, "Foundation Settlement Confirmed: When is the Time Perfect for Repairs?" for additional information about functionality and determining when the time is right to fix your foundation. A structural engineer report is not required in the Denver area to justify a repair plan. So not having to purchase one will save you time and money. Any foundation repair firm that is unwilling to submit their designs for review by a structural engineer is a red flag. Why you SHOULD Hire a Structural Engineer for Your FoundationYou are now aware of the distinction between a structural report and a foundation repair plan. Following that, we discuss why you should hire a structural engineer before proceeding with a foundation repair plan. Here are the top five reasons:
Monitoring for movement (no. 4) allows you to observe how things are now and then check back later to see how they are. You will receive actual measurements from a specialist to analyze changes. This may help you evaluate whether you need foundation repairs before conducting substantial renovations or selling your property. If you don't believe a foundation repair firm (as mentioned in item No. 3) to advise you that you require repairs, a structural engineering report provides an unbiased assessment. Because the engineer will not profit from the repairs, there is no motivation for them to exaggerate the cost or claim that repairs are required when they are not. Separating the "issue finder" from the "problem solver" is a good strategy to create trust in homeowners. It gives you the impression that you are getting an honest appraisal of your foundation problem and are not being overcharged. In other words, it occasionally makes people feel better. If you don't believe a foundation repair firm (as mentioned in item No. 3) to advise you that you require repairs, a structural engineering report provides an unbiased assessment. Because the engineer will not profit from the repairs, there is no motivation for them to exaggerate the cost or claim that repairs are required when they are not. Separating the "issue finder" from the "problem solver" is a good strategy to create trust in homeowners. It gives you the impression that you are getting an honest appraisal of your foundation problem and are not being overcharged. In other words, it occasionally makes people feel better. Most Opportune Times for a Structural Engineer to Look at Your FoundationSo, now that you have strong reasons to call a structural engineer, make sure you contact them at the appropriate moment. The following are the ideal times to employ one:
So those are the occasions and situations when you should consult with a structural engineer about your foundation. A structural engineer's report is primarily useful for recording the state of a foundation for planning purposes, collecting evidence and condition information, and setting a baseline for future work. However, if you know you want or need your foundation repaired and aren't worried with any of the difficulties listed above, it's OK to "take action" now. You may bypass the engineer and instead contact a foundation repair firm to get problems taken care of. Obtaining a price or quote from a foundation repair contractor can provide you with additional information about how the foundation will be fixed and, most importantly, how much it will cost. If you need your foundation inspected for any reason, do not hesitate to contact our structural engineer. Ask These Questions Before Hiring a Structural EngineerAre you at the start of planning a major undertaking? Here are ten questions you can ask to discuss with potential structural engineers and ensure you choose an established firm. What is the specific area you have a specialization in? Does the structural engineer you're looking to hire have a specialization in commercial or commercial construction? Local and state codes for each differ So it is important that they're knowledgeable about the specific kind of project you have in mind. Go to their website and then look through the section titled "Our Services" or similar to know exactly what they carry out. What tasks have you completed? The projects the company has completed could be an excellent indicator of the way they serve their customers. Are they focused upon residential or short-term projects or more complicated lengthy projects that require thorough monitoring and reporting? It's an excellent idea to contact them and request references from past projects so you have an idea of their work scope and the capabilities. Do you know about the local code needs? Construction regulations change often. Be sure that the firm you're looking at is current on local and state construction codes. This will eliminate many headaches throughout the course of your project. How can you collaborate with other contractors working on this project? Make sure the company is able to work with the contractors or builders you'd like to employ to complete your project. If you are looking for references, you should find out how fast an engineer for the structure is responding to emails or answering calls. Check out the times they are available, which includes weekend and after hours. Also, make sure to check the hours of operation during holidays when your project is scheduled to fall on the holiday. One of the worst things you can do is for contractors to be waiting on feedback from the structural engineer. How do you bill projects? Ask for a written statement of the fees for structural engineers. Also, request an estimate prior to any work. If you've already determined the major aspects of your work, then ask for a design fee fixed. Through the course of your project, you should be wary of any unexpected costs that come up and be suspicious of their validity. Examine the way in which the company typically requires payments. Are they requiring payment prior to they release their final product or do they have accounts? How do you define your credentials? Request to meet with whomever you believe your most likely contact is in your project. You can discuss their qualifications and experience. You should be comfortable communicating with the person you are meeting and confident in their capabilities. Do structural engineers comprehend how the plan will be implemented? Confirm that they are aware of the nature of the work and their role in it, the deliverables and anticipated deadlines. Do you have evidence of your insurance? Structural engineers must be covered by some kind in liability coverage. Do not be afraid to ask for a copy or any other evidence of coverage. It must be current and reflect the kind of work involved in your project. Have you got customers who are returning? Clients who have repeatedly come back is an excellent indicator of structural engineers' reliability and professionalism. Examine the types of projects to ensure they are in line with the project scope you're searching for. For example repeat customers from residential homes could not be a sign of an knowledge of commercial projects.. Are you able to provide any references you can call? Reputation is important If you inquire about your local community, you'll find out pretty quickly how the potential structural engineer is viewed. Along with talking with other customers, look at reviews online for a non-biased view of their capabilities. Contact our structural engineer denver professionals so we can demonstrate for you how they possess all these great qualities! Load Bearing Wall RemovalIf you want to let more light into your home, make way to enjoy a spectacular view, or simply to eliminate an unattractive building, you'll need to take down some walls within your home. But, what are the things you have to watch out for prior to cutting them down? A wonderful customer of ours has recently had issues prior to contacting us. "The wall that was between the kitchen and living area was blocking the stunning views of Lake. We wanted to open the kitchen, and install the bar in place. We employed an architect who told us that it wasn't a load bearing wall , and that I could proceed and take it down. So, my children and I smashed it down ourselves and removed the wall that was half-way up. The next day we realized that the door to the pantry didn't open due to it rubbing with the ceiling. This was when we discovered that it was sliding and falling down. We contacted Denver Structural Engineers, who was recommended by an acquaintance. Scott arrived at the home, looked at the wall and told us it was a load bearing wall , and we should take action to fix it. He designed a wall-removal and flush beam that would be erected to support the weight of the attic and second story. The work began and was finished in just 5 hours. ." Four Steps Using the Flush Beam ApproachStep 1 : Set Up
Set up a plastic to shield other areas of the home from damage that could result by removing the old wall. Step 2: Install Temporary Wall Create the temporary wall that will help support the load as we put in the beams. This is to ensure there isn't any additional destruction caused to the structural structure. Because of its weight, the whole upper level and the attic contributes to the fall of the ceiling. Step 3: Create Space The next step is to create space for the two beams flush which will be installed in accordance with an engineer's designs. This means cutting out some space and cutting two beams flush to perfectly fit into the space we have created. Fourth Step: Setup the Flush Beams After we've made space for it, we have to place the two beams in place one at a time. We made a hole on the beam's side to allow a wire to pass through, and then checked to make sure it was holding up the weight of the wall that was above it. The idea is to transfer the load initially supported by the wall through the two beams which carry the load vertically, and to the lower beams which are joined with the foundation. If you are planning on removing any wall in your home or business, contact our professionals for an inspection to make sure the wall can be safely removed without causing structural issues. |
AuthorCharlie Day Archives
March 2023
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