Structural Engineering
- Structural design
- Finite-Element analysis
- Material specifications
- Detailed construction drawings
Site Inspections & Structural Assessments
- Structural condition evaluation
- Deficiency identification
- Planning policy compliance veritification
- Technical recommendations for remediation or enhancement
Structural Engineering FAQ
Answers to frequently asked questions about structural engineering.
Projects involving load-bearing wall modifications, reinforced concrete floor/roof structure alterations, beam installations, foundation design, or building extensions require structural engineering expertise.
KUBU assesses existing structural systems typical to Malta, particularly load-bearing masonry and reinforced concrete structures. This process accounts for standard construction methodologies used in different periods of Malta's development, from traditional stone construction to modern reinforced concrete systems. Assessment includes identifying load paths, evaluating material conditions affected by Malta's marine environment, and determining appropriate intervention strategies.
Exposed reinforcement and spalling concrete, common in older Maltese buildings with reinforced concrete structures, indicates progressive deterioration typically resulting from chloride penetration and reinforcement corrosion. Such deterioration presents a safety hazard requiring immediate technical assessment. KUBU can perform a comprehensive structural evaluation to determine the extent of deterioration and develop a detailed remediation specification.
Material selection varies based on project requirements and budget constraints. Reinforced concrete remains predominant in Malta's construction industry due to local expertise, availability, and performance in the Mediterranean climate. Structural steel offers advantages for longer spans, rapid construction, or lightweight additions to existing structures for specific applications. Hybrid solutions combining reinforced concrete cores with steel framing when appropriate.
Transfer slabs in multi-level buildings require specialised finite element analysis to redistribute loads from upper levels to different support arrangements below. These complex structural elements, typically constructed from heavily reinforced concrete, are essential when wall layouts change between floors in apartment buildings. KUBU applies advanced finite element analysis to optimise reinforcement layout, thickness, and concrete specifications.