At SPS Consulting Engineers, we specialise in providing innovative and practical structural engineering solutions for homeowners, architects and builders across Ongar, Essex. This recent garage conversion and side extension project demonstrates how careful structural design can create a stunning open-plan living space with a vaulted ceiling, whilst ensuring the highest standards of structural safety and Building Regulations compliance.

Working closely with Gemini Builders, who expertly carried out the steel installation and construction works, our structural engineers designed the complete steel frame and produced detailed structural calculations and fabrication drawings that brought this impressive extension to life.

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Structural Design for a Vaulted Roof Extension

One of the key architectural features of this project was the creation of a vaulted roof, allowing the new extension to feel bright, spacious and contemporary.

Unlike a traditional flat ceiling, a vaulted roof removes conventional ceiling joists, meaning the structural steelwork must safely support:

• The roof structure
• External masonry walls
• Wind loading
• Snow loading
• Long-span roof members
• Lateral stability of the extension

Our engineers designed an efficient structural steel solution using a combination of:

• Structural steel portal frame
• Ridge beam
• Rafters
• Universal columns
• Universal beams
• Connection details
• Steel fabrication drawings
• Foundation loading calculations

The result is a clean open internal space with minimal visible structural elements.

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Detailed Structural Engineering Drawings

For this Ongar project, SPS Consulting Engineers provided a full structural engineering package including:

• Structural calculations
• Steel beam design
• Structural steel layout drawings
• 3D steel model
• Connection detailing
• Pad foundation loading
• Building Control submission drawings
• Fabrication drawings for the steel manufacturer

The 3D steel model enabled the builder and steel fabricator to clearly understand the installation sequence before work began, helping the project run smoothly onsite.

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Working Alongside Gemini Builders

This project was delivered in collaboration with Gemini Builders, who installed the structural steelwork exactly in accordance with our engineering drawings.

As shown during installation, the temporary lifting equipment safely positioned the large steel members before they were securely fixed into place, creating the impressive vaulted framework ready for the roof construction.

Strong collaboration between the structural engineer and builder is essential on projects involving complex steelwork, ensuring:

• Accurate steel fabrication
• Efficient installation
• Compliance with Building Regulations
• Reduced construction delays
• High-quality workmanship

The finished structural frame provides the strength required while allowing the architect’s vision for an open vaulted ceiling to become a reality.

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Structural Engineers for Garage Conversions in Ongar

Garage conversions have become increasingly popular throughout Ongar and the surrounding areas of Essex, allowing homeowners to create valuable additional living space without the expense of moving home.

Many garage conversions require structural alterations such as:

• Removing load-bearing walls
• Installing steel beams (RSJs)
• Designing portal frames
• Supporting existing roofs
• Creating open-plan kitchen extensions
• Vaulted ceiling design
• Side extensions
• Rear extensions

Every structural alteration must be properly designed by a qualified structural engineer to ensure safety and Building Regulations approval.

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Why Choose SPS Consulting Engineers?

SPS Consulting Engineers have extensive experience designing structural solutions for domestic extensions across Essex, including:

• Garage conversions
• Side extensions
• Rear extensions
• Loft conversions
• Open-plan renovations
• Steel beam calculations
• Structural surveys
• Structural inspections
• Building Regulations calculations
• Temporary works advice

Our engineers work closely with homeowners, architects and contractors to provide practical, cost-effective engineering solutions tailored to every project.

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Structural Engineers in Ongar, Essex

If you’re planning a garage conversion in Ongar, a side extension, or a vaulted roof extension, SPS Consulting Engineers can provide the complete structural engineering design package from concept through to construction.

Whether you require steel beam calculations, structural drawings, Building Regulations calculations, or advice on removing load-bearing walls, our experienced engineers are here to help.

Contact SPS Consulting Engineers today to discuss your project in Ongar, Essex, and discover how our structural engineering expertise can help turn your ideas into reality.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a structural engineer for a garage conversion in Ongar?

Yes. If your project involves removing walls, installing steel beams, creating a vaulted ceiling, or extending the existing structure, a structural engineer is required to produce calculations and drawings for Building Regulations approval.

Can a garage conversion have a vaulted ceiling?

Absolutely. A vaulted ceiling creates a spacious, modern feel, but it requires careful structural design to safely support the roof using engineered steelwork.

Do you provide structural calculations for Building Control?

Yes. SPS Consulting Engineers supply full structural calculations, steel beam designs, fabrication drawings, and documentation suitable for Building Control approval.

Areas We Cover

SPS Consulting Engineers provides structural engineering services throughout Ongar, Chipping Ongar, High Ongar, Brentwood, Epping, Chelmsford, Harlow, Shenfield, Romford, and across Essex.