The Importance of Knowing Construction Materials as a Structural Engineer
A good structural engineer, like a chef with their ingredients, must understand the materials specified in their designs. Timber, a versatile material in residential construction, is used in roof elements, framing, and flooring, with different stress grades impacting its structural properties. Engineers can specify higher timber grades similar to concrete's MPa ratings. Additionally, standard timber sizes vary by grade, such as hySPAN versus MGP10, and knowing these is crucial for industry-compliant designs. This knowledge ensures realistic, buildable projects that adhere to standard practices, ultimately enhancing design quality and construction success.