When should a remedial engineer be consulted?
What is a remedial engineer?
A remedial engineer is a specialist engineer that focuses on rectifying structures or land that has failed or been damaged and now poses a risk to individuals and property. They have considerable expertise in diagnosing structural issues and designing repair plans for unstable structures.
While the remediation of structures is a relatively new field in the construction industry, the need for remedial engineers has grown significantly in recent years. Given the changing nature of building processes and materials, a remedial engineer is often required to assess the structural requirements as a general builder is not qualified to understand the impacts that structural changes may have on the overall structure of a building.
Unlike general builders, the expertise of remedial engineers extends beyond the built environment into external forces that may affect the structural stability of the building.
This includes:
- Land stability
- Soil drainage
- Soil settlement and other movements
- Land moisture
When should I consult a remedial engineer?
A remedial engineer should be consulted as soon as you identify any damage to your structure or the land on which it is built, including:
- Cracks in your retaining walls
- Moving concrete
- Windows and/or doors that no longer sit square
- Land slippage
Remedial engineers may also be consulted if an aging building is beginning to degrade and upgrades must be implemented to further the lifespan of the structure. Remedial engineers have the knowledge and experience to identify the structure’s weakness, whether it is from the land, external forces or a failed structure, and put corrective actions into place to prevent further damage.
Why consult a Remedial Engineer?
When a remedial engineer is consulted, they will determine the origin of distress within the structure before eliminating the cause of distress and any damaged material. They will then construct a plan to extend the life of a building through reconstruction and/or renewal of the structure. Through their expertise in the area, remedial engineers will select and apply appropriate materials to repair and protect the damaged structure in order to prevent any further deterioration.
In order for building repairs to be cost-effective and long-lasting, it is essential to employ a specially trained professional with knowledge and experience in building remediation to identify the root cause and provide efficient solutions.
Elite Australian Engineers are experts in the diagnosis and reparation of failing structures. Our team of remedial engineers are available to identify any structural weakness within your building and provide cost-effective and timely solutions to prevent further damage. Contact us today.