A Structural Engineer's Services During A Historical Renovation
Upgrading a building that is within a historic district may require a consultation and investigative process that is conducted by an engineer. Engineering services involve addressing safety concerns and aesthetical features that would compromise one's safety to occupy a structure.
The Specifications For The District
Some historical districts that are overseen by a government entity may require that property owners adhere to specific construction and design element requirements. Furnishing an engineer with the address of the building that is being revamped and providing historical details about the building's construction may help an engineer formulate a plan. There are some buildings located within regions where hurricanes and other adverse weather-related events may necessitate that extensive renovations are made to a structure.
For instance, if a historical building is located near an area that floods or receives high winds, a jurisdiction may have outlined that building owners will need to add braces, interior walls, and other structural support materials. An engineer can use these requirements to decide which materials will be needed for an upgrade and the manner in which they will be installed.
The Inspection And Investigative Process
An inspection of the premises will provide an engineer with firsthand information about the quality of the craftsmanship that was used to build an older structure. They will observe time period design features and structural supports that are essential to the building style's appearance and safety rating.
If any materials are damaged or if load-bearing walls have been compromised, an engineer can recommend replacement materials that will not only bring back the natural beauty of a building but will also improve the strength of structural components. Occasionally, an engineer may need to delve deeper into the construction of a building. This may be necessary if some materials are covering key components that an engineer typically inspects.
If there are some baseline materials that need to be investigated further, ripping out drywall or removing floor coverings may be required. An engineer will provide a full call to action that will outline where any problems are located and the type of upgrades that will be needed to fully restore a building.
Some historical buildings may contain a lot of aesthetical features that won't need to be restored. Floor planks, crown molding, and other original materials can be patched or repaired. Paint, varnish, and glaze are protectants that will beautify and strengthen original pieces within a structure.
For more information, contact a company like East Coast Engineering Inc.