Why We Conduct Structural Engineering Site Visits

Structural engineering site visits play an essential role in reducing risks and optimizing design and construction phases. In the world of construction, “surprises” often mean increased costs and extended timelines. Our site visits bridge the gap between known and unknown variables, minimizing risks and ensuring smoother project workflows.

In particular, Alemara’s site visits reveal hidden structural defects—often called latent defects—such as material degradation or hidden structural shifts that may have occurred over time. By identifying these factors before construction begins, we help clients avoid costly redesigns and ensure a safer, more reliable structure.

Reasons for Site Visits Before Construction

• Condition Assessments: Clients frequently ask Alemara’s engineers to evaluate the condition of potential properties, particularly when they’re considering renovations or extensions that may impact structural stability.

• Feasibility Studies: Pre-design assessments help architects and clients shape initial design concepts. After receiving the architect’s plans, we conduct a detailed site inspection to verify existing conditions, assess anticipated structural changes, and confirm that the design can be safely integrated into the property.

• Pre-Purchase Structural Surveys: Often crucial for property buyers in London, these surveys provide a detailed overview of a building’s structural health. Our engineers inspect for any signs of structural wear such as cracks and subsidence which may influence the feasibility and cost of future modifications.

• Verification of Load-Bearing Walls: Determining whether walls are load-bearing or non-load-bearing is essential to avoid compromising structural integrity in a renovation or extension. By examining wall construction, position, and the structure's overall integrity, we confirm if modifications or removals will require additional structural reinforcement.

Feasibility studies identify cost-saving opportunities, uncover potential issues, and offer clients a clear understanding of their project scope early on.

These studies help pinpoint critical elements, such as foundation stability, floor joist dimensions, and the presence of load-bearing walls, all of which may impact design decisions and costs. When examining properties, we assess details like wall cracks, settling, sloping floors, and more, giving clients a comprehensive view of their property’s condition.

What We Look for During a Site Visit

During a site visit, our engineers assess various structural components to gain a holistic understanding of the building’s current condition. Here’s what our process looks like with Alemara:

Initial Site Visit

One of our senior structural engineers, sometimes accompanied by an apprentice, conducts the initial walk-through of the property. Architects, and contractors if available are also encouraged to join, as the first site visit often serves as a kickoff meeting where critical design elements are discussed as well as the following aspects:

• Evaluate Wall Composition: Identify wall thickness, construction materials, and any additional wall components.

• Assess Floor Joist Dimensions and Direction: Typically, joists are either 100mm x 200mm deep or 100mm x 150mm deep. These measurements help us determine load capacity and may influence our design recommendations.

• Verify Load-Bearing Walls: By examining wall positioning, thickness, and connections, we confirm which walls are load-bearing. This critical step ensures that any planned changes do not compromise the structural integrity of the property.

• Check Alterations to Structure: Note any prior structural modifications or additions, such as pre-installed beams or columns and previous load-bearing wall removals.

Common Structural Issues Uncovered During Visits

Our site visits frequently identify structural issues that may impact safety, design, and budget. Common issues include:

• Cracks and Settlement: These often suggest foundation shifts.

• Material Degradation: Corrosion, rot, or weakening of older materials, especially timber joists.

• Load-Bearing Instability: Visible signs like sloping floors or cracks may indicate structural imbalance or previous movement.

By catching these issues before construction, we can adjust designs to maintain stability and safety.

Construction Phase Site Visits

While Alemara’s engineers primarily conduct assessments before construction, some site visits are necessary during the construction phase, especially when significant changes occur. If issues arise that necessitate on-site inspection, our engineers consult with contractors to confirm that any adjustments align with structural integrity and safety requirements.

Case Study: Structural Site Visit in Clapton, London

In a recent project in Clapton, Alemara engineers visited a property undergoing a side extension, loft conversion, and interior remodeling. Our initial inspection revealed several noteworthy findings:

• Non-Standard Wall Fill Materials: While the spine wall appeared to be a simple timber stud, it contained rubble, an older method of soundproofing.

• Hidden Steel Beam and Masonry Nib: A masonry nib indicated a concealed steel beam at the first-floor level, influencing joist directions and weight distribution.

• Chimney and Bracket Conditions: We noted a historic gallows bracket in the loft and wall cracks between the main building and outrigger wall, suggesting structural movement over time.

By identifying these factors, we adjusted the project’s scope to include:

1. Accurate Load Calculations: Updated weight assessments for new beam placements.

2. Planned Structural Connections: Adjustments to connect new and existing steel beams securely.

3. Structural Supports: Necessary additions to ensure stability.

4. Crack Stitching Specifications: Recommendations for crack stitching and monitoring during construction.

Had these issues gone undetected, the project would have faced delays and increased costs from last-minute redesigns and steel reinforcements.

In cases where additional information is required, we may recommend exploratory work that involves invasive methods such as:

• Trial Pits: Small excavations near foundation walls help determine foundation type and depth, which is essential for assessing potential foundation modifications.

• Ceiling Cutouts and Wall Openings: Exposing parts of the structure provides insight into load-bearing properties and material stability, especially in hard-to-access areas.

By gathering this information early on, we minimise the need for further invasive investigations and proceed with more confidence in our design and planning phases. For third parties that may be required at this stage, we are able to provide recommended partners who can assist.

Alemara Gloucester Gardens property Structural Engineering site inspection of floor joists

By identifying these factors, we adjusted the project’s scope to include:

1. Accurate Load Calculations: Updated loading assessments for accurate beam sizing and calculations.

2. Planned Structural Connections: Detailed designs to connect new and existing steel beams securely.

3. Structural Supports: Necessary additions to ensure stability.

4. Crack Stitching Specifications: Recommendations for crack stitching and monitoring during construction.

Had these issues gone undetected, the project would have faced delays and increased costs from last-minute redesigns and steel reinforcements.

Alemara Structural Engineering - Gallow Bracket Example Picture

How Alemara’s Site Visits Benefit Clients

Alemara’s methodical approach to our structural engineering site visits provides clients with several advantages:

• Improved Safety and Compliance: Early identification of structural issues minimises risk

• Efficient Project Timelines: Proactive findings streamline project phases and avoid delays.

• Cost Savings: Addressing issues before they become problems prevents unexpected expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What’s the main purpose of a structural site visit? To assess a building’s structural integrity, identify risks, and support safe design planning.

2. How long does a typical site visit last? Site visits generally last 2-4 hours, depending on the property size and project complexity.

3. What should clients prepare for the visit? Property plans, past structural reports, and relevant documentation are helpful.

4. Will I receive a report after the site visit? Yes, depending on the scope and requirements, we provide a detailed report or instructions follow up of our findings, recommendations, and necessary modifications.

5. Do you visit sites during construction? Although less common, we may visit during construction if major design adjustments arise.

6. Are additional investigations needed after the initial visit? In some cases, further investigation may be required to confirm structural assumptions. This could involve invasive methods, such as trial pits or ceiling cutouts, to provide more detailed information about hidden structural elements. If these additional steps are necessary, our senior engineer will prepare a follow-up site investigation plan. This plan can be implemented by recommended third-party professionals to ensure a thorough and safe assessment of any structural components in question.

At Alemara, our commitment to quality and precision ensures that each project is structurally sound, compliant with the highest safety standards, and meets all building control requirements.

Structural site visits are essential for identifying potential risks, optimizing design accuracy, and aligning our work with the client’s vision. Interested in arranging a site visit? Contact Alemara today or fill out our project form to discuss how we can support your project from start to finish.