Complete New-Build Design Is Not Our Core Service Right Now
Cornell Engineers has extensive experience working with architects and building designers on houses, renovations and commercial buildings.
However, we are not presently concentrating on complete structural design and drafting for new architectural projects.
These projects require ongoing design, drafting, coordination and construction support. Our current focus is forensic engineering, building damage investigations, independent engineering reports and selected structural work involving existing buildings.
Engineering for Existing Architectural Buildings
Architecturally designed buildings can be more difficult to investigate than conventional buildings.
They may incorporate:
- large openings and long structural spans;
- concealed beams and connections;
- exposed steel, concrete, masonry or timber;
- unusual load paths;
- cantilevered building elements;
- complex balconies, decks and façade interfaces;
- multiple construction systems; and
- details developed specifically for that building.
When damage occurs, the engineer must understand both the visible problem and the original structural intent.
Investigating Structural Problems
Cornell Engineers can investigate concerns involving:
- cracking and building movement;
- foundation or floor movement;
- structural deterioration;
- corrosion of steel and reinforcement;
- concrete cracking and spalling;
- moisture-damaged timber;
- defective or incomplete construction;
- storm, impact or accidental damage;
- problems uncovered during renovations;
- failed or inadequate repairs; and
- differences between the drawings and constructed work.
Our investigation may include a site inspection, review of architectural and structural drawings, examination of construction records and assessment of the likely cause of the problem.
Working With Architects and Building Designers
We can work with an architect or building designer when an existing building requires:
- investigation of a structural defect;
- advice about an alteration;
- assessment of an unexpected site condition;
- development of a practical repair approach;
- review of a proposed structural repair; or
- an independent engineering opinion.
Where appropriate, we may prepare a structural detail for a specific repair or alteration. We are not currently offering complete structural documentation for every new architectural project.
Independent Engineering Reports
Where responsibility for damage or defective work is disputed, Cornell Engineers can provide an independent engineering report.
Our reports explain:
- what we inspected;
- what documents we reviewed;
- what we observed;
- the likely cause of the damage;
- the structural significance of the problem; and
- what further investigation or repairs are recommended.
We work with property owners, architects, builders, insurers, loss adjusters, building consultants and legal representatives.
Is Your Project Suitable?
If you need complete structural design for a new architectural building, you should engage an engineering practice with the design, drafting and construction-support resources required for the entire project.
If you need an experienced engineer to investigate a problem with an existing architectural building, please send us:
- the property address;
- a description of the concern;
- photographs of the affected areas;
- available architectural and structural drawings;
- previous reports or repair documents; and
- an explanation of the advice you require.
We will review the information and advise whether the project suits our current services.