You’ve found the perfect home, but your general inspector has flagged a potential issue with the foundation. Or, you’ve noticed a new, unsettling crack in your basement wall. In these moments of uncertainty, a term you may not have heard before comes up: structural inspection.
At Blue Sky Engineering, we understand that your home is your most valuable asset. A structural inspection is a professional, in-depth evaluation of your property’s “bones”—the foundation, walls, and framing that hold everything together. This isn’t a simple visual check; it’s a technical analysis performed by a licensed structural engineer to diagnose a building’s health, ensuring its safety, stability, and long-term value.
A Structural Inspection vs. a Home Inspection: What’s the Difference?
A standard home inspection is a valuable, broad assessment of a home’s overall condition, from plumbing and electrical systems to the roof and HVAC. Think of a home inspector as a general practitioner: they can identify red flags and provide a big-picture overview of the property’s health.
A home structural inspection, however, is performed by a specialist. When a home inspector finds a potential structural issue—such as a large crack, a sagging floor, or signs of settling—they will almost always recommend a structural engineer for further investigation. Our expertise is focused exclusively on the building’s load-bearing systems, allowing us to perform the necessary calculations and provide a definitive diagnosis.
What Does a Structural Inspection Include?
During an inspection, a licensed structural engineer conducts a thorough visual assessment, looking for both obvious and subtle signs of distress. The process typically includes a detailed examination of:
- Foundation: We look for signs of movement, including horizontal, vertical, or “stair-step” cracks, inward bowing, or heaving that may indicate a serious underlying problem.
- Framing & Load Paths: We evaluate key load-bearing elements like beams, columns, joists, and trusses for signs of deflection, damage, or inadequate support.
- Walls, Floors, and Ceilings: We inspect for signs of structural movement, such as large drywall cracks, uneven or sloping floors, and sticking doors or windows.
- Water Management Systems: Water is a leading cause of structural failure. We examine the impact of drainage and grading on your foundation and crawl space.
The Benefits of a Professional Structural Report
The outcome of a structural inspection Utah is more than just a list of issues; it’s a detailed, professional report that provides you with a clear path forward. This report serves as a definitive resource that can:
- Provide a Clear Diagnosis: We distinguish between minor, cosmetic issues and serious structural problems, helping you understand the cause and severity of the issue.
- Offer Actionable Recommendations: Our reports can include recommendations for the necessary repairs or reinforcements, giving you a clear scope of work to discuss with a contractor.
- Serve as a Legal Document: A report from a licensed engineer is a legal document that carries professional liability, providing the evidence needed for real estate negotiations or legal matters.
- Give You Peace of Mind: Whether you are buying a home or maintaining your current one, a structural engineer’s report gives you the certainty and confidence to protect your most important asset.
Don’t Guess, Get a Professional Opinion
When it comes to your home’s foundation and structural integrity, guessing is not an option. A structural inspection is a proactive step that provides certainty and protects your investment from potential long-term risks.
If you are a prospective homebuyer or an existing homeowner with structural concerns, don’t settle for a surface-level assessment.
Contact Blue Sky Engineering Today
Schedule an expert home structural inspection and gain the peace of mind that comes from a professional opinion.