Services

SCHEME DESIGN

For a new building or large extension/alteration, this is where we sketch out an initial design.

There may be more than one scheme option, so this is where we consider what works best to acheive the architect's design, site constraints, buildability and the client's budget.

DESIGN CALCULATIONS

This is where we look at the main elements of the structure in detail, preparing sketches and preliminary calculations so that the architect and other members of the team can progress their parts of the design.

There are many items to consider when working up a detailed design including: design loadings, integration of any specialists' calculations or drawings into the design, etc.

Ultimately, we prepare and check sufficient calculations to give confidence that the structural design is sound and the structure can be built in sensible and economical manner.

GA DRAWINGS

Production information for tender puposes will include general arrangement drawings, typical details and specifications with enough detail to enable the tenderers to price the work.

Our GA Drawings are produced using the latest CAD software.  However, you will still find drawing boards in our office, mainly because its the most practical way to inspect a drawing!  Nothing beats gathering round a drawing board to discuss the project drawings in detail.

Drawings and calculations are required to be submitted to the building authorities or for certification by approved persons.

BIM & SCHEDULES

Building Information Modelling is more than just drawing in 3D. It's like actually building the structure before it's even built. We have invested in the latest cutting edge software from Tekla Structures and Nemetschek Allplan Engineering to ensure we are ahead of the game.

We can produce BIM models in steel, concrete, reinforced concrete, timber and masonry and any combination of those materials in the same model.

We can automatically produce schedules of materials from the BIM models as well as passing on our structural model to a steelwork fabricator.  The feedback we have from steelwork fabricators is that this offers significant savings in lead-in time and fabrication drawing costs.

STRUCTURAL INVESTIGATIONS & APPRAISALS

We commonly undertake investigation and appraisal reports for the following:

• Homeowners
  We have extensive experience of domestic property, particularly period properties, and we give you the right advice on damp, cracks and subsidence. 

• Historic and listed buildings
  We know historic and listed buildings require special knowledge, experience and a carefully considered approach and we apply this to each and every project we undertake.

• Commercial
  We have experience in heavy industrial and process plant environments.  Whether it's checking structures for additional load or designing new bespoke frames to support heavy plant items.