Structural engineering is a field of civil engineering particularly concerned with the design of complex structural systems. In a sense, structural engineering is largely the application of Newtonian mechanics to the design of structural elements and systems: such as buildings, bridges, walls (including retaining walls), dams, tunnels, etc.

Structural engineers ensure that their designs satisfy a given design intent predicated on safety as well as serviceability. In addition, structural engineers are responsible for making efficient use of funds and materials to achieve these over-arching goals. Structural engineers may design simple beams, columns, and floors of a new building, including calculating the loads on each member and the load capacity of various building materials (steel, timber, masonry, concrete) and render more difficult structures, considering physics of moisture, heat and energy inside the building components.

Nelson Engineering has a customized approach to structural design. This requires close attention to the client’s ideas and needs, as well as ongoing communication with the client and the project progresses. We prefer to be involved as early as possible in the design work so structural elements are an integrated and complementary component of the design. We believe that clear, concise drawings correctly illustrating the work to be done results in the contractor’s better understanding and, therefore, more competitive bidding and better prices.