Differences and Similarities Between Architects and Structural Engineers
While private businesses or public organizations are all investing in new structures to expand their operational capabilities or enhance the quality of life in the community, it is equally important to design those buildings efficiently so that they can serve their purpose for a long period of time.
For companies and organizations in New Jersey with no in-house construction and building management capabilities, hiring the services of professionals to advise them on these matters is highly crucial. When it comes to ensuring compliant building design, there are broadly two professionals that can be employed – architects and structural engineers.
While it’s a common knowledge that architects and structural engineers work together to build efficient modern structures, each focuses on different aspects of a building project. Based on their requirement, a client needs to decide whether they require the services of an architect or a structural engineer in NJ, or both. In some cases, a hired architect will bring in a structural engineer for part of a project.
Below are the top similarities and differences between architects and structural engineers.
Training and License
There is some overlap between the training and licensing requirements for architects and structural engineers as well as differences.
First, both are required to accumulate sufficient training through different field immersion activities. Architects typically gain experience from architectural design firms while structural engineers build their knowledge and expertise through countless site visits, workforce and equipment management, project scheduling, and others.
In terms of licensing, architects must meet the requirements of the registration board of their respective state. The requirements of each state vary per education, experience, and examination. In New Jersey, architects wishing to take the Architect Registration Exam must hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Architecture from accredited university or college, and have at least three years of experience under an Architectural Experience Program.
Likewise, the licensing requirements specifically for structural engineers also vary per state. However, there are also some states that don’t require professional engineers to have an SE license before they can render their service. In New Jersey, professional engineers that specialize in structural engineering are not required to obtain an SE license to operate, although their practice, along with other branches of engineering, is strictly regulated by State Board Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors.
Nature and Scope of Work
Often, an architect and structural engineer have to come up with a plan that will ensure the structural stability and integrity of the structure. The architect drafts the blueprint and the structural engineer goes over it and decides on the best materials and construction approach that should be used to bring the architect’s design to completion.
Both professionals are also required to collaborate from time to time with other stakeholders in the project like clients, contractors, and workers. They must have an in-depth understanding of engineering design, and be the proficient problem-solvers of the project.
But while the architect often gets the credit as the “genius” for bringing the plan into fruition due to the significant input they provide during client meetings, it is up to the structural engineers to make sure that the building meets the standards specified in various building codes and regulations. This means structural engineers also have to make sure that all key components – from electrical and water systems, to sewerage systems and mechanical components – comply with the structural specifications of the building.
And while an architect is usually concerned with the structure’s aesthetic, color, materials, and other factors that might impact its overall functionality and productivity of the occupants, a structural engineer is more focused on factors that could make the built system less safe for the occupants, including seismic forces, concentrated loads, corrosion, fretting, and accidental damage.
Functions
Both architects and structural engineers can be found working together on building projects. However, they complete different tasks to produce a structurally stable and efficiently designed building.
The architect’s functions mainly include:
- Building design
- Materials specifications
- Contract management
- Cost estimation
- Client coordination
The tasks that a structural engineer would typically deliver in a project can include:
- Construction materials evaluation
- Area inspection and site appraisal
- Building code implementation
- Building inspection
- Damage assessment
- Demolition management
The last but certainly not the least notable difference between an architect and structural engineer is that the latter can also testify as an expert in legal proceedings.
Because of the high-level expertise in technical aspects of the structure, it is often the structural engineer, not the architect, who is retained to provide testimonies when the structural system at hand suffered a major failure that caused significant financial damage or even injuries to the occupants.
In conclusion, whether it be an office building, an industrial facility, single-family residence, or a multi-family development, it is the responsibility of architects to design and plan built structures in accordance with the occupants’ space and aesthetic needs.
On the other hand, it’s the job of structural engineers to show how to safely construct, develop, and maintain the building the architect has envisioned, ensuring that its structural integrity can withstand the test of time and is compliant with various building codes and laws.
For more information about the services and expertise that our professional NJ structural engineers provide, contact Lockatong Engineering today.
