Do You Need a Structural Engineer for Your Masonry Home?

Homes built from bricks or concrete blocks and stone have been around for generations and they are some of the longer lasting buildings. Some, however, begin to deteriorate after a few years and that’s usually due to some faults in the building structure.

The Benefits of Building with Masonry

Masonry construction has many advantages over other types of construction and this is why it has been popular for so long. Since it’s fireproof, homes that are built with masonry tend to be safer. They will block fire from spreading and retain the heat, which is why so many fireplaces are made from stone or brick. You’ll also find that masonry holds up well against the elements. Even in a storm, there is very little that will ruin the walls built this way. They’re strong and virtually untouchable, thanks to their unyielding structure. Wind, rain, and even major storms rarely cause them to falter if they’re properly built.

Unlike wood, brick and stone doesn’t rot, even when left untreated. It can be used even in very damp areas without worry about deterioration. You may end up with some moss or mould growing, but it won’t break down like wood. Likewise, pests such as termites and carpenter ants will have little effect on a masonry building. They can’t do much to the structure and will not destroy it except in extreme cases.

Overall, masonry is a good choice for building a safe, sturdy building that will last for decades. But do you need a structural engineer for your masonry construction project?

Why You May Need an Engineer

Not all masonry structures require an engineer. Building a simple footer wall may not have anything important enough to check the structural integrity. However, if you are building any type of structure, you must be sure that the building is correctly laid out and that you have calculated the load that must be carried by every part of the structure.

The type of material will also matter. Brick tends to twist easily for example, while stone is particularly heavy all on its own and may not be ideal if you are looking to maximise indoor space. Concrete brick is quite sound and may be used for a great many buildings, but it isn’t suitable for everything.

Having a professional evaluate the building can really help you prevent future problems and ensure you are in the best possible place with your building.

If you need help with your masonry projects, Integrated Designs & Associates are the perfect company for you. With over two decades of experience, we know exactly what it takes to help you with your project. To find out more about the services we offer, then get in touch with our team today!