Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Planning a home extension, loft conversion, new build, or refurbishment? Get in touch for a competitive quote on structural calculations tailored to your project. Our structural calculation packs ensure a smooth Building Control approval process, helping you save time and money.
We provide full structural plan packages, beam calculations for extensions and loft conversions, and comprehensive support for all aspects of your project. Contact us today to get started with your construction project.
General Information
What are structural calculations and why are they important?
Structural calculations are detailed assessments by engineers to ensure beams, walls, and foundations can safely support expected loads. They’re essential for safety and Building Regulations approval.
Do I need a structural engineer to do the calculations?
Yes. Structural calculations must be carried out by a qualified structural engineer to ensure safety and compliance with UK Building Regulations.
What is an RSJ and when is it used?
An RSJ (Rolled Steel Joist) is a steel beam used to support loads when walls are removed or large openings are created.
What are padstones and are they included in calculations?
Padstones are concrete blocks that distribute loads from beams. Structural engineers include padstone specifications in their calculations.
What’s the difference between architectural and structural drawings?
Architectural drawings show layout and design. Structural drawings detail how the building is supported – including beam placements and supports.
What is included in a typical calculation package?
You’ll receive beam sizes, load assessments, padstone details, connection notes, and builder-friendly sketches.
When You Need Structural Calculations
When do I need structural calculations?
You’ll need structural calculations for projects that affect the structure of a building – such as removing walls, building extensions, or converting lofts.
Do I need a structural engineer to do the calculations?
Yes. Most structural alterations will require Building Control to review and approve structural calculations before work begins.
Do I need structural calculations to remove a load-bearing wall?
Yes. Removing a load-bearing wall requires calculations for a replacement beam (typically an RSJ) to maintain structural support.
Are calculations needed for a home extension?
Absolutely. Calculations are required to design beams, foundations, roof structures, and any new openings within the extension.
Will I need calculations for a loft conversion?
Yes. A loft conversion involves structural changes to the roof and floor, which must be supported by calculations to ensure safety.
Are structural calculations required for new builds?
Yes. New builds need full structural calculations for all structural elements – including foundations, beams, walls, and roof.
Do I need calculations for removing a chimney breast?
Yes. The remaining chimney stack must be supported using beams or brackets, which require structural calculations.
What is a retaining wall and do I need it calculated?
A retaining wall holds back soil. If it’s over a certain height or supports loads, calculations are required for safety.
Types of Structures and Materials
Can Beam Designs help with steel beam calculations?
Yes. We specialise in RSJ and steel beam design for openings, wall removals, extensions, and more.
Can you provide calculations for timber and concrete beams?
Yes. We provide structural calculations for steel, timber, and reinforced concrete elements.
Do you design foundations as well?
Yes. We provide foundation design calculations including strip foundations, pad footings, and raft foundations.
Working With Beam Designs
Can Beam Designs provide calculations without visiting the site?
Yes. Beam Designs offers a fully online service. Calculations can be completed from plans, sketches, and photographs.
What information do I need to get started?
We typically need floor plans, measurements, existing photos, and a description of the proposed work. We’ll guide you if more is needed.
How do I get started with Beam Designs?
Simply send us your drawings or enquiry via our website. We’ll review your project and provide a free, no-obligation quote.
How long does it take to receive my structural calculations?
We typically deliver within 3–10 working days depending on project complexity.
Are your calculations accepted by Building Control?
Yes. All calculations are prepared to meet UK Building Regulations and are accepted by Building Control authorities.
Are Beam Designs’ services available across the UK?
Yes. Beam Designs is a UK-wide service operating entirely online.
Do you work with homeowners as well as professionals?
Yes. We work with homeowners, architects, builders, and developers across the UK.
What types of projects do you work on?
We work on loft conversions, extensions, wall removals, new builds, chimney removals, retaining walls, and more.
Structural Calculations for Loft Conversions, Extensions & New Builds
Loft Conversion Structural Calculations
Our loft conversion structural calculation packages include everything needed for Building Control approval, material ordering, and builder reference. Simply provide architectural plans or a measured survey, and we’ll handle the rest.
Our calculation pack includes:
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Steel beam calculations for loft extensions and roof support, including padstone/bearing plates, splice calculations, and fabrication details
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Floor joist calculations, including trimming joists
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Rafter and roof modification calculations
Structural Calculations for Home Extensions
A home extension is a great way to add space—whether it’s a larger kitchen, additional bedrooms, or an open-plan living area. Our team provides precise structural calculations for extensions, ensuring compliance with Building Control regulations.
We offer:
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Steel beam calculations for single and double-storey extensions
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Load-bearing wall assessments and modifications
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Foundation and floor structure calculations
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New Build Structural Calculation Packages
For new build dwellings, we offer comprehensive structural calculation packs to support your Building Control approval. All we need is your architectural plans and Phase 2 site investigation report.
Our full new build calculation packages include:
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Foundation calculations
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Masonry or timber-framed wall calculations
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Floor calculations
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Roof calculations
We deliver reliable solutions for residential developments, extensions, and internal alterations
Structural Calculations Suitable for Part A Building Regulation Submissions
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40+
Backed by over 40 years of structural engineering experience
50+
Team members enabling engineering across the UK
1000+
Residential, commercial & industrial projects nationwide
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quick and easy online structural calculations service
What Our Clients Say
A Fair Price
Always helpful, punctual delivery of designs & at a fair price. A pleasure to be associated with Beam Designs.
Brooks Building Plans
Helpful and Efficient
Beam Designs have been working on my projects for over 8 years, they are extremely helpful and efficient in finding cost effective structural solutions to my architectural projects.
Tony Angeletta Architect
Cannot Fault their Service
I have worked with Beam Designs for a couple of years now and cannot fault their service. They are always happy to help and I look forward to working with them going forward.
Steven C.
This is a very reliable & professional…
This is a very reliable & professional company with excellent service and very prompt in providing assistance !
L.Bin
Beam Designs A+
I have used Beam Designs on many projects and on each time they have delivered both in quality and costs. They always happy to help with any queries. I would highly recommend.
Bobyas
Professional & Knowledgeable
I couldn't be more happy with the service received from Beam Designs. From start to finish, their team was professional, knowledgeable, and attentive to every detail.
Mr. J. Snitzer
Practical, Cost-Effective
Finding a structural engineer who truly understands the needs of our community isn’t easy, but Beam Designs does exactly that. Their experience with local properties and commitment to delivering practical, cost-effective solutions makes them the go-to choice for structural design.
S. Oppenheimer
Smooth & Stress-free
After researching several companies for our loft conversion project, we decided to go with Beam Designs, and we're so glad we did. Their expertise in structural engineering and their solutions made the entire process smooth and stress-free.
M.Reece
Incredibly Easy
Beam Designs made the experience of a loft conversion less stressful. They provided a design which ensured it was structurally sound and compliant with all regulations.
T.Syed
Frequently Asked Questions
Beam Designs is an online service, offering Beam Calculations for construction projects across the UK.