Structural and civil engineering are two disciplines in the engineering field that are quite similar to each other. Both engineering types are responsible for making sure construction projects are safe, stable and cost-effective. However, they hold vital differences that make them distinct from each other.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Civil engineers typically are involved in the overall supervision of a construction site and are focused on how the construction projects will impact the environment. Structural engineers, on the other hand, are usually tasked with looking at the effect of various conditions of the infrastructure of the construction project. 
The major differences between the disciplines include the following:

• Civil engineering is a broad subject that includes structural engineering. Structural engineering is a subject under civil engineering at the undergraduate level.
• ​Structural engineers analyze the effect of temperature and wind fluctuations on tall buildings and other structures. Civil engineers work strictly on research, environmental factors and or design and may act as supervisors at a construction site.

All structural engineers are civil engineers. However, not all civil engineers are structural engineers. Despite their similarities or differences, both civil and structural engineers must be familiar with the laws and regulations in the places where they work.

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For more details about civil engineering in Santa Rosa, contact the civil engineering and land planning firm of Atterbury & Associates today. Our team of experts applies best management practices by working closely with local, state, and federal regulatory agencies. We provide design, consulting, and planning services utilizing the most innovate mechanisms in the industry. Make sure to like us on Facebook, find us on Google+, and subscribe to our blog.

The relationship between Architecture and Civil Engineering is important for communicating and coordinating the safety and quality of the project. While the professions are similar, they have different perspectives and priorities. 

Aspects of the Relationship

Architecture specializes in spatial functionality and aesthetics of designing and developing infrastructure projects. The functionality, creativity, and feel of structures is the focus. Civil Engineering concentrates on the structural elements, emphasizing the feasibility of the construction project, strength of materials, and safety. Other distinctions between Civil Engineering and Architecture include:

• Shared leadership. While Architects and Civil Engineers work together to design a construction project, the Architect takes the lead on design, while the Civil Engineer concentrates on the physics involved in the development project.
• Blending aesthetics with safety. An Architect enhances the interior and exterior appeal of the structure, while the Civil Engineer determines strategies to ensure that the aesthetic materials are stable and safe.
• Design and work quality. The Architect designs for placement, dwelling space, facility arrangement, room, lighting, and ventilation, whereas the Civil Engineer designs to support the Architectural features, plans the ancillary components to support the development,  supervise the construction, and implement the design.
• Project design and construction. While the Architect creates the aesthetic design of the project, the Civil Engineer produces it based on load calculation, foundations, grading, drainage, and utilities.

Both Architects and Civil Engineers are involved in preparing and creating a project and work together throughout the development process. They rely on the support of each other to complete the project successfully.

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For more details about the importance of the relationship between civil engineering and architecture, contact Atterbury & Associates today at 707-433-0134. Like us on Facebook, find us on Google+, and subscribe to our blog.

Planning, developing and executing a commercial project is a job too large for any one person.  There are so many different aspects that experts from various fields need to be involved in to successfully complete the venture. One of the most important consultants for any project is a civil engineering professional. These consultants are trained to consider factors that may be affected or need to be addressed before construction can even begin. There are many different services that a civil engineer can offer.

Comprehensive Planning

The area of your project determines the types of permits you’ll need and the standards you’ll be required to follow. For instance, projects in Sonoma County may need to consider one or more of the following standards, depending on their area and project type.

• Zoning Ordinance
• Sonoma County General Plan
• Grading Ordinance
• Well & Septic Standards
• California Coastal Commission
• State Agencies
• Building Codes
• And more…

Having a civil engineering professional on your team will provide the experience of someone who understands these guidelines and knows how to complete a commercial project while still following the designated plan.

Agency Permitting

Another aspect of project planning that can be confusing is the necessary permits and processes for obtaining them. There are often more required than you would expect, making it vital to have someone on hand who knows how to efficiently navigate the legal side of construction. 

Site Design

In addition to obtaining necessary permits and determining which adjustments will need to be made to satisfy each plan for the specified area, experts in civil engineering are also able to contribute to site design. Their past experiences allow them to offer options for compliance and creatively come up with a solution that will satisfy the reviewing committee as well as government regulation.

As you prepare to undertake the task of planning and executing a commercial project, consider hiring an expert in the civil engineering field to determine legal compliance and safety. For more information on Civil Engineering and the roles they play, contact Atterbury & Associates today at 707.433.0134, “like” us on Facebook, find us Google+ and subscribe to our blog.