How it works
1. You send us your structural design
Email assessments@re-structured.com with your existing structural design as soon as you can.
This can be at any stage before the steelwork is ordered. The process is fast if needed.
2. Your design is reviewed
We go through the information you send and concurrently review local geological maps for soil-type data. An experienced structural engineer assesses the assumptions and unknowns in the design.
The specified steelwork, concrete and timber is analysed to see if they can be smaller or lighter. The foundations are reviewed for efficiency.
On complex projects, we also review the construction sequence and site constraints.
3. You receive our assessment
You will receive a summary of our findings, setting out what improvements can be made. We explain why we think the current design is the way it is and we give an indication of the savings that can be expected.
We find savings on 90% of the projects we review.
We set out our fees for developing out the improved design in a clear way. We will answer all the questions you have.
4. Your design is updated
We get to work optimising the design. We prepare the documents your contractor needs to build your project more cost-effectively. This includes all calculations and drawings.
The design will be safe and meets the current Building Regulations. We track all changes and savings made.
We can also work with your Architect/designer to optimise layouts.
5. You buy something nice with the money you've saved!
Your contractor will work to the new documents issued. We are on hand if anyone has any questions.
Have a glass of wine and reallocate the money to something more interesting...
FAQ
Will it still be safe?
Yes, the structure is redesigned using the latest codes of practice, modern techniques, and advanced software. Our engineers all established, have great reputations, and we have proper insurance in place.
How fast can you undertake a redesign?
Roughly 48 hours on a residential extension project with a construction budget around £100k.
Usually 3 weeks for a construction project over £2million.
We don't hold up the design or construction programme.
Does this process affect my Architect?
The optimised structural design leads to reduced structural sizes or simply deletions. Therefore, no updates to the architectural package are normally needed.
Sometimes our findings are so significant that it can lead to improved layouts and better architecture. In these cases, the Architect will need to update their designs.
What if you don't find anything?
Then move onwards with the project knowing you have an efficient design. You don't pay us anything.
What happens with my existing engineer?
If we find savings, this does NOT mean the original engineering firm provided a poor service. See our articles about this topic. They will have also done a lot of work with your designers to get to this stage. Do not expect any refund from them.
How does it work with PI Insurance?
It is important the final structural design is covered with appropriate Professional Indemnity Insurance.
There are various ways of ensuring coverage and this is agreed and confirmed on every project.
How do you know how much money is saved?
The cost of structural materials and products are broadly known and generally accepted. We have a list of costs per kilo for various materials, which consider the following:
- The product/raw material
- Fabrication
- Delivery
- Installation
- Contractor's overheads
- Contactor's profit
- VAT
We then compare the original weights against the weight of the new design and calculate the cost of the difference.
What is the normal scope of your assessment?
Each project is unique, but typically we will review the following:
- Steelwork design
- Concrete design
- Interpretation of the Ground conditions
- Foundation design
- Drainage design
- Temporary works and sequencing
- Reinforcement Design
- Assumptions in the design
- Unknowns influencing the design
Can you provide other services not yet completed?
Yes, we can undertake all the services usually undertaken by an engineering firm and these are done on a fixed fee basis. Services we can provide are:
- Drainage Design (inc. Build Over notices)
- Temporary Works Design
- RC Detailing
- Site Visits
- Enhanced support during Construction
- Construction Negotiation and Resolution
- Bespoke Staircase and Balustrade Designs
Can you focus on sustainable design?
Yes. We can also focus on sustainable aspects of the design, just let us know early in the process if this is important to you.
We are big believers in the first word in "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle" and the biggest saving of embodied carbon is to reduce structure. We seek to swap steel and concrete for less carbon intensive options. We are fans of timber and modern products like Foamglas. Also, it is sometimes better to strengthen existing structure than to replace.
Got another question?
Email us your question to info@re-structured.com or use the chat button and we will answer it.