If you are removing internal or external load-bearing walls in a domestic property built from brick or concrete block construction, EngDesignTech.co.uk can assist by providing steel beam calculation reports. This offers a faster and more cost-effective alternative to traditional structural engineering services, and is intended for straightforward structural alterations.

There are 6 different calculation types available, grouped by the nature of your project. These typically include beams supporting cavity walls, internal load-bearing walls, floor joists, and flat roof joists, among others.

However, it is important to understand the limitations of this service and when a qualified structural engineer should be appointed instead.

Use a competent builder

It may sound obvious, but all structural work should be carried out by a competent and experienced builder. Cutting corners on workmanship can lead to safety issues, delays, and significantly higher costs later in the project.

Commercial buildings or non-masonry construction

If your property is commercial in nature (such as an office, shop, or industrial unit), or if it is constructed from materials other than brick or concrete block, this service will not be suitable. In these cases, an experienced structural engineer must be appointed to carry out a full bespoke design.

Building regulations approval

If you are using EngDesignTech.co.uk, you will likely already understand that Building Regulations approval is required for structural alterations, including removing load-bearing walls, extensions, and new structural openings. This is separate from planning permission, which may also be required.

Ultimately, the property owner is responsible for ensuring compliance with all regulations. All structural calculations and supporting drawings must be submitted to Building Control for approval.

This is where we can help. EngDesignTech.co.uk provides professional steel beam calculation reports intended for submission to Building Control. Our founder, Linden Copeland, has previous experience reviewing structural calculations within a local authority setting, giving him a clear understanding of what Building Control expects.

Building Control Officers (either from the local authority or an approved private inspector) will review the calculations and the completed works to ensure compliance with Building Regulations.

Find out more about the approval process

Weak or damaged masonry

If the masonry supporting the proposed steel beam is weak, damaged, or unsuitable, it should be repaired or rebuilt by a competent builder before any steelwork is installed.

Larger or less stable structures

In some cases, removing a load-bearing wall may require a steel “goal post” frame, where vertical steel posts support the beam at each end. This is typically required where there is insufficient stable masonry to provide adequate support.

If a steel goal post frame is required, this service may not be suitable, and a structural engineer should be consulted to provide a full bespoke design.

As a general guide, steel goal posts are often not required where the building layout meets guidance within Building Regulations Approved Document A. As a rough indication, this may apply where:

You have walls on all four sides and the floor area does not exceed 70m², or
You have walls on three sides and the floor area does not exceed 36m²

Adequate foundations

Existing foundations are usually suitable for typical domestic beam installations. However, they should always be exposed and verified by Building Control where required. Beam lengths and load assumptions are limited within this service to help ensure foundation loading remains within reasonable bounds.

General rules for steel beams

Steel beams should not be positioned above lintels or existing openings
Beam ends should not clash with existing structural elements such as lintels or beams
Steel should not be installed into chimneys or within 50mm of a flue
Beams should be supported on adequate load-bearing masonry with a minimum plan area of 0.1m²
Minimum end bearing should be 100mm, supported on appropriate padstones as specified in the calculations
Supporting masonry should comply with the requirements of Approved Document A

If you have any questions about any of the above, feel free to get in touch with us.