Harringay, Haringey - So Good they Spelt it Twice!
Structural calculations for a loft conversion
We're in the process of having our loft converted. Thus far, no part of the process has gone smoothly. The latest issue is with the structural calculations.
The calculations came back and, apparently, we need some insanely massive steels. The builder is concerned because, in all the years he's been doing loft conversions, he's never used anything this big. He doesn't know how he's going to get them in.
Now, I'm in no way qualified to say whether the calculations are correct. I'm also obviously keen for the loft to have structural integrity. Still, something doesn't seem right. It's a standard dormer conversion. Half of our neighbours have had them done. We've had visits and quotes from six local loft conversion companies, and none of them thought that there was anything out of the ordinary about the job.
I'm unsure of what to do now. Do we pay for a second opinion from another engineer? Has anyone had this issue? Really, it's not a massively large space. I don't understand how it could be so out-of-the-ordinary that a builder with years of experience doing loft conversions has never encountered this.
I'd appreciate any advice.
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Rainbow_carnage on
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The calculations were done by a company called Fast Plans Ltd. They were recommended by Pat of Another Level, who's the builder that's doing the work.
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Permalink Reply by MD on
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If Pat recommended them and is doing the work, but has never seen the like before, has he not asked the structural engineer WHY such big steels are needed? It sounds like you should definitely seek a second opinion though.
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Pat has queried it. The engineer insists that the calculations are correct.
I think we are going to have to get a second opinion, but I'm still confused about all of this. Is it really that subjective? Surely there's a formula that the engineers use for these sorts of jobs? I would understand if this was a unique grand-designs-type project. I can see how different structural engineers might have different ways of approaching the job. But it's just a standard dormer conversion with a small shower room. Every second house on the street has one.
So, really, I'm concerned about two things now. One is that the calculations are off. Or if they are right, and Pat isn't comfortable working with the larger steels, do I need to find a new builder?
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Permalink Reply by Rebecca Thomas on
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How big are you talking?? We had ours done and the steels they used were colossal! Arrived on a huge lorry and put up by crane. All quite exciting to watch!
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