If you’re planning to start any sort of remodeling project, then the question of whether or not to hire an engineer will arise at some point during the process. While most homeowners likely know that the plumbing and electrical work requires some level of expertise, few may realize that remodeling projects also benefit from the inclusion of licensed professionals like architects or engineers.
Whether it’s putting in new drywall or adding central air conditioning, it’s important to use engineers to help ensure any remodeling project you take on is compliant with building codes and safe for your family. The truth is that building anything from the ground up will require engineering expertise, while remodeling projects typically only need it if they introduce structural changes to your home. Here are ten common remodeling projects that require engineering services:
Basement Remodel
When it comes to basement remodels, it’s important to hire an engineer or contractor who understands building codes and structures. This will allow you to rest assured that no hidden structural issues are lurking below ground level. Hiring an engineer for a basement remodel is a great way of ensuring that your new space meets or exceeds all safety standards and can accommodate future plans.
Kitchen and Bathroom Remodel
In a kitchen or bathroom remodel, plumbing is often a primary concern. Because these spaces require water, electricity, and gas lines, there are a lot of potential hazards at play. In either case, you might have to hire an engineer to ensure that you’re not going to disrupt current infrastructure or create an unsafe environment in your home. It doesn’t matter how much you love those granite countertops if your home’s wiring or plumbing won’t support them— that can mean tens of thousands of dollars in additional costs.
Read: How to get Permit for Kitchen Remodel?
Foundation Repair
Structural foundation damage can result from earth shifting, poor-quality building materials, or termites. If your home’s foundation is damaged, it may be time to call in a professional. Since foundation repair can be costly, you should look for signs of damage before things get worse. Look for cracks in exterior walls, floors that are sagging or uneven, doors and windows that don’t close properly, and other structural damage. To learn more about how to tell if your home needs foundation repair, contact an experienced contractor today.
Garage Addition
When you add an addition to your garage, you’re in a sense, building a second house. While a garage addition is not quite as complicated as a full-scale home, it does require some specialized skills and knowledge when it comes to building codes and zoning regulations, as well as understanding how much load the existing structure can take.
Also, think about whether the plumbing and electrical systems need updating first; remodeling often requires more permits than doing construction from scratch because of existing systems in place.
Your local building and codes department will have complete details on what your project needs to comply with codes—and these rules can vary greatly from region to region. Get up-to-date specifics before getting started, so you don’t have delays later on due to violations. The team of structural engineers at Design Everest has been helping with construction and pre-construction services for over a decade. The team is fluent in local building laws in California and can help you ensure that your remodeling project is worth every dollar you spend.
Building Up or Out
One of the most common projects that require structural engineering expertise is when you are expanding your home. Whether you are expanding vertically or horizontally, make sure that your project will pass inspections and that it does not overload power and plumbing systems. Adding square footage to your home can be an exciting process; if you want to add on correctly, however, be sure to have the project overseen by a licensed engineer.
If you are adding new floors, you will also need to add a staircase, which will involve breaking a part of the ceiling and ensuring that the new additions do not create any disturbance to the load-bearing elements. These types of projects need to be supervised by an engineer.
Installing or Replacing your Pool
Pools and spas are complex additions to your home. There’s a lot that goes into installing a pool or spa, from water filtration systems to proper drainage, so it is always best to consult with an engineer to ensure that these additions are structurally sound and safe. Furthermore, there are several laws and codes to comply with when installing or remodeling a pool. An engineer will be aware of the nitty-gritty of what needs to be done to be fully compliant.
Attic Remodeling
If you are considering transforming your attic into a functional space, you will need to hire a structural engineer who can make sure that there are correct load-bearing elements in your home for the project to be successful. Factors like the number of people who are going to be in that space and the purpose of the room will all need to be taken into consideration before remodeling.
Adding New Windows/Door
Doors and windows are important structural elements of a home, and any major changes need to be supervised by a structural engineer. If you are resizing your doors or windows, elements like headers (beam on top of the window/door frame) also need to be changed. A remodeling engineer will ensure that there are no weakened areas in the frames or around them that can create structural issues. And, if the new window or door is being added to a load-bearing wall, you will need an engineer to make sure that the structural integrity of your home is not compromised.
Adding New Dormers
Similar to windows and doors, the addition of new dormers also requires expert supervision as it will involve creating changes to your roof framing. Factors like the slope on the roof, its condition, and structural integrity need to be taken into consideration before dormers can be added.
Adding a New Garage
Garages need to be created based on the local building codes and the weather conditions. You will need to get permits when building your garage, whether it’s a detached or an attached one.
Most remodeling projects require you to work with the local building departments to ensure that it is compliant with local laws and will involve getting various types of permits for them. Hiring a remodeling engineer to take care of these needs as well as ensure that your home is structurally sound can help you make the most of your investment.
How Can Design Everest Help?
Design Everest is California’s leading construction services company and has offered its services to over 6000 projects. Get in touch with Design Everest today for a free quote and consultation for cost-effective and smooth remodeling of your home.
