The Overlooked Partner in MEP Renovations
Engineer with helmet and laptop inspecting HVAC system blueprint over industrial ventilation equipment. – Engineering, HVAC, Industrial Maintenance, Building Systems.
Building owners and facilities teams are choosing renovation over new construction across markets. The need for MEP renovations, whether due to aging systems, code compliance, or energy efficiency, often drives these projects. However, even when structural changes are not the focus of the project, they are often needed. Adjustments for equipment load support or altering existing utilities often impact the structural systems of the building. THP’s understanding of existing structures makes us a key team member for the MEP engineer and the building owners. THP provides coordination and safety in maintaining the facility’s structural integrity with safe, cost-effective, project-specific solutions.
Why Renovation Projects Are on the Rise
As construction costs continue to rise and budgets get tighter, owners and facility managers are pursuing renovation as an alternative to new construction. Renovating buildings can save money and provide environmental sustainability due to the reuse of materials from existing infrastructure. At the same time, the need to extend the service life of an aging building has placed greater importance on making thoughtful, long-term improvements. THP partners with teams to support these goals, delivering efficient, cost-effective structural solutions that maximize the value of what’s already in place.
Common Issues We Help to Avoid
The role of the structural engineer in an MEP renovation is to assess the existing structure and make sure that it meets the MEP needs while remaining safe and structurally sound. When a structural engineer isn’t called in to a project at the start, we frequently see a host of preventable problems: overloaded floors and roofs, interrupted load paths, and serviceability issues due to vibration. THP creates efficient upgrade solutions for the reinforcement of existing structures, especially addressing these preventable issues.
Our approach to MEP renovation projects begins with an in-depth understanding of the existing building’s conditions. We begin by looking at available existing building plans and then go on site to understand how the proposed changes might affect the structure. From coordination with the existing framing and conveying the structural impact of new rooftop equipment, to bearing the weight of heavy mechanical systems, our team is focused on thinking ahead so that we minimize the need for cutting and reinforcing, resulting in minimal structural impact on the building.
Beyond coordination, structural engineers look for opportunities to repurpose the existing building structure to minimize the need for invasive demolition or extensive reinforcement. The goal is always to deliver outcomes that are safe, efficient, and tailored to the project’s specific needs by identifying structural impacts early. This approach helps to keep projects on schedule and within budget while supporting the performance and flexibility of upgrades to the building.
Structural Engineer Involvement in Action
THP’s involvement in the multi-phase renovation and expansion of Clippinger Laboratory at Ohio University showcases the value of early structural collaboration on MEP-driven projects. As the structural engineer and building envelope consultant, THP supported the transformation of a 189,000 SF academic building into a modern research and teaching environment. Our early structural consulting enabled the design team to compare several alternative systems in terms of life-cycle cost, enabling the strategic placement of all MEP systems and minimizing structural reinforcement.
THP analyzed the new layout of the proposed rooftop units and compared their weight to the existing roof’s load capacity. It was determined that the existing roof structure, in some areas, was not designed to support the additional loading and had to be reinforced. Additionally, the new MEP scheme had piping and ductwork passing through concrete slabs, so THP conducted on-site evaluations to identify safe areas for slab openings, maintaining structural integrity.
Day One of Your Renovation Project
Structural engineer involvement at a preliminary stage is essential in all renovation work, particularly in renovations that require upgrades to MEP systems. Structural considerations often influence mechanical and electrical enhancements affecting feasibility, configuration, and cost of design and construction. Structural engineers bring value in the earliest stages of design by helping the team determine structural limitations, assess existing conditions, and develop reinforcement strategies that meet the project’s scope and budget. THP’s collaborative approach and technical expertise make us a trusted partner throughout the entirety of the renovation process.
If you are planning a renovation project focused on infrastructure or mechanical upgrades, THP can help you navigate complexities with clarity and confidence. We look forward to the opportunity to engage with building owners, facilities managers, and design teams to discuss how our structural engineering services can positively impact your project goals. Contact us today to learn more about our renovation services and how we can add value to your project’s long-term success.