#structural-engineering

#structural-engineering

"For applications like glazed walls, roofs and windows or doors then a safety glass is a necessity," says Edward Stobart, technical sales manager at IDSystems. "Toughened safety glass is treated in the manufacturing process to be significantly stronger than ordinary glass and if broken breaks into blunt pieces. Alternatively laminated glass is two panes of glass with a polymer interlayer - much like a car windscreen - which, even if broken, the pane shatters but holds together providing an extra level of security and safety."

Earthquakes cause buildings to stretch, compress or shear, leading to potential collapses. While rock and brick can handle compression, they fail under stretch and shear forces.

"A structural engineer can investigate problems with your home, provide technical calculations for a home improvement project or give you an independent expert report if you are in a dispute."