What renovation projects require a structural engineer?
- coraliefortin076
- Jun 12
- 5 min read
Planning a renovation project is often an exciting time, but also one filled with important decisions. When it comes to modifying a building's structure, the issues become more technical. Hiring a structural engineer isn't just a matter of compliance with standards; it's above all a guarantee of safety, durability, and peace of mind. At Plan Maison Québec, we support each client in the success of their project, whether it's an addition, an attic conversion, or the development of an existing space.
But in what specific cases is it really necessary to hire a structural engineer? What are the legal and technical implications? This article guides you through the different types of projects that require the intervention of this essential professional in the world of residential renovation.
The fundamental role of the structural engineer
Before delving into the types of projects, it's important to understand the role of a structural engineer. This specialist's mission is to ensure the stability, strength, and safety of a building's structure, whether it's a single-family home, a cottage, or a garage.
The structural engineer designs, validates, or adapts the load-bearing elements of a building:
load-bearing walls
beams
columns
foundations
slabs
etc.
He performs precise calculations based on recognized standards, which take into account permanent loads (building weight), variable loads (furniture, occupancy), and climatic loads (snow, wind, frost). In Quebec, these climatic constraints are particularly significant, and it is essential to ensure that the structure can withstand them without fail.
At Plan Maison Québec, we regularly collaborate with structural engineers to provide our clients with renovation plans that meet the highest standards of safety and efficiency.
When does a structural engineer become necessary in a renovation project?
Some renovations can be carried out without the direct intervention of an engineer (repainting a room, replacing kitchen cabinets, redoing the floor). However, as soon as there is an impact on the building's load-bearing elements, or a significant change in load distribution, an engineer becomes essential.
1 ) Modify or remove a load-bearing wall
This is undoubtedly the most common and riskiest scenario. Many homeowners want to open up the space between the kitchen and living room, or create an open-concept layout. However, if the wall in question is load-bearing, removing it without a structural study can cause floor sagging, cracks, or worse, a partial collapse of the building.
The structural engineer will analyze the wall's role in the overall structure and then propose a replacement solution, such as installing a steel or glulam beam. They will also ensure that the loads are properly transferred to the foundations via columns.
At Plan Maison Québec, we help you identify load-bearing walls during the planning phase and work with the necessary engineers to ensure a safe and compliant result.
2 ) Add a floor or expand the house
Vertical or lateral extensions directly alter the load distribution on the existing structure. The engineer must therefore assess whether the current foundations can support the additional weight of an additional story or a new volume, such as an extension to the rear or sides of the house.
In some cases, reinforcements will be necessary: widening the foundations, adding piles, reinforcing load-bearing walls, etc. Ignoring these aspects could lead to settlement, cracks, and moisture problems in the future.
3 ) Converting an attic or loft into a habitable space
This renovation project is very popular, especially for bungalow-style homes or those with unfinished attics. However, simply laying a floor and adding drywall isn't enough. The structural engineer must assess:
Whether the existing floor joists can support an occupancy load.
Whether the roof can be modified without compromising its stability.
Whether the addition of roof windows (dormers, skylights) will affect the structural framework.
In such cases, Plan Maison Québec prepares the necessary plans, in collaboration with an engineer, to ensure that the space is not only comfortable, but above all, safe.
4 ) Add windows, doors or openings in exterior walls
Installing new openings may seem simple at first glance, but if it's done in a load-bearing wall, it requires a structural analysis. The engineer will determine if a transfer beam is necessary to redistribute the loads above the opening.
This type of intervention is also common during facade renovations or the addition of a patio door. Plan Maison Québec systematically recommends consulting an engineer when an opening touches a load-bearing wall, even if it appears to be a minor opening.
5 ) Repair or stabilize cracks in foundations or walls
Cracks in a wall or foundation can have several causes: ground subsidence, poor initial design, overloading, or even movement due to freezing and thawing. A structural engineer is the only professional qualified to diagnose the exact cause and propose an appropriate technical solution.
Interventions can range from installing anchors to partially rebuilding the foundation, or reinforcing defective beams. In all cases, a complete inspection is necessary before beginning work.
What is the difference between a structural engineer and an architect?
It is common to confuse the roles of the architect and the engineer. However, their responsibilities are quite distinct, yet complementary.
The architect is responsible for the overall design of the building:
the aesthetics
the functionality of the spaces
the interior layout
the relationship with the environment.
They ensure that the building meets the client's needs while complying with municipal regulations and urban planning standards.
The structural engineer, on the other hand, focuses exclusively on the technical feasibility of the structure: they ensure that what the architect designed can be built safely and sustainably.
At Plan Maison Québec, we are experienced in coordinating these two essential roles in major renovation projects. This helps avoid costly errors and delays, while providing our clients with a turnkey solution.
At what stage of the project should you call in an engineer?
The most common mistake is consulting an engineer too late, when the plans have already been drawn up, the materials ordered, and the contractors chosen. However, the engineer must be involved from the design phase when it comes to the structure.
This allows for their recommendations to be incorporated from the outset, avoiding costly rework, and ensuring smooth municipal permit applications. Moreover, in several municipalities in Quebec, it is mandatory to submit plans signed by an engineer for certain types of projects (expansions, modifications to load-bearing walls, etc.).
By working with Plan Maison Québec, you can rest assured that all key stakeholders—engineers, technicians, draftsmen—are involved from the very beginning of the process.
Conclusion: Secure your project with Plan Maison Québec
Renovating a house, cottage, or garage is a major investment that must be approached with care. Too often, work carried out without structural consultation leads to costly repairs, delays, and even safety risks for occupants.
At Plan Maison Québec, we understand the importance of building on a solid foundation—literally and figuratively. Our approach combines creativity, regulatory compliance, and structural engineering to deliver flawless and durable projects.
If you're planning a renovation involving structural modifications, don't take any risks.
Your peace of mind starts here, with Plan Maison Québec.
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