Structural engineers are among the most important people involved with buildings but also the ones whose specific tasks are difficult to ascertain. Those familiar with the building process may be able to explain the role of structural engineers, but the Institution of Structural Engineers already indicated that they are specialists in design, construction, repair, conversion, and conservation.

Designing and evaluating anything that carries and supports a load is the responsibility of a structural engineer in construction materials evaluation. The engineer’s primary concern involves the backbone, skeleton, and sinews of a structure to ensure that a building’s foundation can withstand as much force as possible.

Before the actual construction work, structural engineers conduct an area inspection and site appraisal. This work includes salinity assessment, soil erosion assessment, pavement design, slope stability assessment, subsurface investigation, and management of acid sulfate soil.

The structural engineer is responsible for evaluating schematics and in ensuring that the structure meets the building codes. The engineer conducts a site visit which inspects the foundation, infrastructure, curtain walls, insulation, and building envelope with the state’s building codes used as the guidelines.

The structural engineer also inspects building designs, conducts damage assessments, oversees demolitions, and testifies as an expert in legal proceedings.

Thanks to the plethora of skills they have, hiring a structural engineer in NJ or New Jersey for a home inspection is wise when purchasing a home in the area. For detailed information regarding structural engineers, see this infographic by Lockatong Engineering.