The structure in construction is like the skeletons in a human body. It is the constituent part where the rest of the building will fall without it. All the elements in construction are to a larger or lesser extent structure since they help to hold themselves and all the other elements beside. We do not comprehend which structure is more important than the other, as all the elements are equally important to ensure the whole stability of any superstructure.
Types of Structures
There are endless types of different essential structures in construction, some of the more common ones include:
- Steel – Perfect material to support large spans, commonly used in skyscrapers or towers
- Wood – Traditional material for structures formation, possess great resistance to bending
- Reinforced concrete – “King” of structures, used in almost all construction works as the foundation
- Masonry wall – Popular element used for vertical structures, made from materials available in the area
Understanding Structural Engineering
All structural engineers play an important role to ensure that there is appropriate serviceability and strength for any structure in construction, and this usually applies to most construction projects. For example, beams are required to support the load to prevent any issues with flooring or ceiling finishes. A cheaper and lightweight framing system could also demonstrate abhorrent vibrations due to heavy foot traffic. Exterior walls and interior partitions that are designed poorly can also cause unbearable cracks when a huge amount of lateral movement is induced by strong winds.
Structural engineering services include the analysis and design of the arrangements for renovations in new or existing structures and foundation systems. Assessment of existing structures to analyze failing structures can also be done.
Helpful Factors Addressed
Some of the invaluable factors that can be focused on by structural engineering services during the pre-construction process include:
- Construction type
This includes the right selection of the structural system in frames, bearing walls, and so on. It is dependent on the dimensions and functions of different building types, local availability, zoning restrictions, building code limitations, and provisional expenses for materials such as precast or reinforced concrete, structural steel, and wood.
- Location of walls
The accurate placement of shear walls and vertical bracings is crucial to withstand damages from horizontal powers such as strong winds or earthquakes that can be moved from high-rise buildings all the way down to the foundation. The placement also plays an important role in ensuring favorable functional needs and visual aesthetics of the superstructures.
- Location of columns
It is a permanent grid that helps to speed up the construction process, enhance bay dimensions handily, facilitates monotonous member sizes at lower costs.
- Supplementary considerations
Alternative structural design and engineering necessities and considerations include floor and roof penetration, exterior modifications and cladding, floor to floor heights, and existing structural systems.
Perfect Structural System
There is no foolproof structural system in construction. The perfect structure will depend on the type of building itself. The experienced and qualified project manager will decide the best type of structural system to be used depending on several factors. At US Framing, our team of project management specialists will be able to help with your construction projects. We guarantee that you will be in good hands as we have a perfect track record of planning, coordinating, and supervising construction projects from start to finish. Rest assured that you will be in good hands.
