April 2024 Newsletter: Stay Connected with ES!
ES Project Spotlight
1140 S. Ocean, Manalapan, FL – Structural Remodel
We feel privileged to have contributed our structural engineering expertise for the picturesque oceanfront property in Manalapan, FL!
This latest project involves transforming the Main House roof from a classic hip to a contemporary flat and crafting a new flat roof for the Guest House with cast-in-place concrete slabs and beams. Our team specialized in the design, drafting, and detailing to deliver comprehensive construction documents for the proposed architectural program.
ES Employee Spotlight
Claudia Reategui – Cheif Finacial Officer (CFO)
Claudia is an accomplished professional with a Masters in Business Administration earned from Florida Atlantic University. She brings her expertise to Engineering Solutions as a valued consulting partner representing Arias, Arias and Jasko Financial. In her role, Claudia is entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing critical financial functions, controls, and policies. Her purview includes accounting, capital structure, and human resources management, as well as the supervision of administrative activities, ensuring the smooth operation of the organization. In her personal life, Claudia finds fulfillment in various pursuits. You can often find Claudia immersed in a good book or whipping up delicious culinary creations in her kitchen. Her love for the arts also extends to live theater, where she enjoys the magic of storytelling on the stage.
News & Resources
Recently, the RISE Doro apartments, a landmark seven-story wooden structure in Jacksonville, experienced fire damage in February 2024. This event has sparked discussions about the pros and cons of wood structures versus concrete, particularly in regions like South Florida where weather conditions and environmental factors play significant roles.
Image Source: Jacksonville Daily Record
Wood Structures
Pros
- Cost-Effectiveness: Wood construction typically comes with lower initial costs compared to concrete, making it an attractive option for developers.
- Construction Speed: Wood structures often have shorter construction times, allowing for faster project completion.
- Renewable Resource: Wood is renewable and sustainable, contributing to environmentally friendly building practices.
- Thermal Insulation: Wood provides better thermal insulation properties, which can lead to energy efficiency benefits.
Cons
- Fire Risk: Wood is more susceptible to fire damage compared to concrete, as highlighted by the recent incident at the RISE Doro apartments.
- Durability: Wood structures may be more prone to degradation over time due to factors like moisture and pests such as termites.
- Limited Height: Wooden buildings typically have height limitations compared to concrete structures due to structural considerations.
Concrete Structures
Pros
- Fire Resistance: Concrete offers superior fire resistance compared to wood, providing greater safety for occupants.
- Durability: Concrete structures tend to have longer lifespans and require less maintenance compared to wood.
- Hurricane Protection: Concrete is highly resistant to hurricane-force winds and offers better structural integrity during severe weather events.
- Noise Reduction: Concrete construction provides better sound insulation, enhancing the comfort of occupants in urban environments.
Cons
- Higher Initial Costs: Concrete construction generally involves higher upfront costs compared to wood, which can impact project budgets.
- Construction Time: Concrete structures often require longer construction periods due to curing times and complex installation processes.
- Environmental Impact: Concrete production generates significant carbon emissions, contributing to environmental concerns.
While both wood and concrete offer unique advantages and challenges, the choice between the two materials ultimately depends on various factors such as budget, location, and project requirements. As a structural engineering firm, we are committed to helping our clients make informed decisions by providing expert analysis and guidance tailored to their specific needs and circumstances.