Steel framed buildings can offer a fast construction solution for a range of projects – large and small, from functional industrial to an architecturally driven aesthetic. However, over or under engineering your project will negatively impact the end result either in terms or time, cost, or safety. Which is why it’s vital to choose a steel frame building structural engineering practice with experienced structural engineers.
Our team of steel frame structural engineers work closely with you to understand your goals before producing bespoke designs offering visually appealing solutions without compromising on quality. Our portfolio of award winning projects are testament to our ability to achieve and exceed expectations.
AWA Engineers is an award-winning structural engineering practice with extensive experience in steel frame building design. As specialists in steel frame building structural engineering, our team of designers and technicians create bespoke solutions according to the needs of your project.
For large developments including industrial, commercial, retail or other steel framed properties we provide a full design and specification service. If your project is in its infancy we can offer feasibility advice regarding the options available to you. For commercial projects involving existing buildings that are being modified in any way, our service will provide sound solutions based on data about your building.
For residential projects, either new build homes, modifications and extensions, we work with your appointed architect to design and specify the most appropriate steel solution to achieve your goals.
The AWA Engineers structural steel specialists can provide end-to-end advice for your project. Before construction begins, our team can help you demonstrate that your project will be safe and compliant with building regulations by providing the necessary design information, calculations and material specifications to support your design team’s plans, giving pragmatic advice for the most cost effective and efficient solution for your building. As your project progresses to achieve building control sign off, you will have the necessary evidence regarding the structural integrity of your building.
Steel frame structural engineering is the use of structural steel components to create the frame, or skeleton, of your building. The steel frame supports the building’s floors, roof, and envelope or facade.
Steel frame buildings are often used for high rise buildings (residential and commercial), as well as for retail, industrial, commercial and warehousing where steel frames enable the creation of large open spaces.
Steel frame buildings are popular for a variety of reasons including:
Steel frames are created using a mix of vertical and horizontal structural steel components which are stabilised with steel bracing, moment joint stiffness, or concrete cores. These elements provides the building with integrity to withstand environmental factors including wind and seismic shifts as well as man-made factors such as impacts or explosions.
As steel is more dense than its concrete and timber alternatives, a smaller steel size can bear heavier loads when compared to concrete and timber components of a similar size. In addition, steel does not warp, swell or shrink as can be the case for timber frames, and is not vulnerable to insect attack. However, steel frames need to be protected from the effects of heat and fire and is vulnerable to corrosion making it less suitable for some applications such as for use for marine projects.
From a sustainability perspective, steel is endlessly recyclable and the use of technology allows pre-fabrication modelling to ensure steels are designed efficiently. In addition, the use of technology has enabled faster design of components that can be reliably reproduced to a consistent standard. Improved standardisation results in increased ease of installation and, in turn, can reduce construction time. On a similar theme, off site manufacturing means that steel frames can be produced concurrently with work being carried out on site offering further time savings when compared to the need to wait for a concrete frame to cure.
When you choose AWA Engineers for your steel frame structural engineering and design needs, you benefit from the experience of steel frame structural engineers to deliver technologically driven, innovative solutions for your project.
For any project involving a full or partial steel frame, or the use of structural steels, you will need to engage the services of a professional and experienced structural engineer. They will work with you to ensure the correct load calculations are used to design and specify the materials for your building. This will ensure that your finished building achieves the required quality standards, is safe and is fit for purpose.
"AWA were brilliant - really responsive and made sure the process went smoothly working with our architect."
Amelia Stead, Client
AWA is a structural engineering and civil engineering consultancy established in 1987, with a hard-won but deserved reputation for delivering excellence in our profession.
Our philosophy is simple: we put people first. This has resulted in a high number of repeat clients and an impressive track record of successful award-winning projects. We are proud to be professional, and approachable; we believe this makes us the ideal partner for your project.
AWA has chartered engineers in our offices located in Romsey, Hampshire and Bath, Somerset. We deliver services to clients across the South, South East and South West.
Our team includes both chartered structural engineers and chartered civil engineers committed to continuous professional development ensuring you benefit from up to date industry expertise, whatever your project entails.
To find out more about how AWA can help with your project, get in touch today. Call 01794 524447 (Romsey) or 01225 251498 (Bath) to speak to a member of our team. Alternatively, email mail@awaengineers.com and one of the team will be in touch.
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