It’s not every day that a smaller job showcases the incredible value of having an experienced structural engineer on your side.
Last week, we proved exactly that when we visited a property with a seemingly serious roof problem. What could have been a costly repair turned into a simple fix—saving our client over £12,000!
Here’s how we did it.
The Problem: A Sagging Roof
Our client had recently purchased a property and, as part of the conveyancing process, obtained a homebuyer’s report. The report flagged a structural issue with the roof—evidence of sagging—and recommended further investigation. Concerned about the potential costs and safety, they called us in to assess the situation.
When we arrived on-site, it didn’t take long to spot the problem.
Up in the roof, we discovered the root cause:
- Trusses were positioned at quarter points in the roof
- The purlin was deflecting, causing the roof to sag
- A short beam was cantilevered past the truss to pick up the next beam
- A critical joint had been cut the wrong way up!
The incorrect joint orientation had compromised the structural integrity, leading to the deflection of the purlin.
The Misguided Advice
Before calling us, the client had sought advice from another structural engineer.
Their solution? Install several steel supports to prop up the purlin. While this approach might have worked, it was overly complex, invasive, and—most importantly—unnecessary.
The estimated cost for this solution was a staggering £12,000+.
The half joint was created the wrong way – it should have been constructed like this …
Our Solution: Simplicity and Expertise
After carefully evaluating the situation, we proposed a far simpler and more effective solution
“G” Clamp
Instead of introducing expensive steel supports, we recommended strapping the beams together using a “G” clamp or similar.
This method cost approximately £200—a fraction of the original estimate!
Why did this work?
By properly securing the beams, we eliminated the deflection issue caused by the poorly oriented joint, restoring support to the roof without the need for substantial structural elements.
The Lesson: A Good Engineer Saves You Money
This case highlights the importance of hiring an experienced structural engineer.
While it’s easy to overengineer a solution, expertise allows us to pinpoint the true cause of a problem and resolve it efficiently. For our client, this meant avoiding unnecessary costs while still ensuring their property was safe and sound.
When dealing with structural concerns, remember: the right expertise can save you thousands. If you’re facing a similar issue or want a second opinion, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help.
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