Ladgate Structural Designs

Ladgate Structural Designs Structural Engineers
Beam & Lintel Specialists
24hr Turnaround
North East of England
Fast. Clear. Reliable.

Structural calculations & drawings for:
• Wall removals
• Steel beams
• Rear extensions
• Building Regulations support

Message for a fast quote.

20/05/2026

How a Site Visit Works

During a structural site visit, I:

• Measure spans
• Check wall thickness
• Identify load paths
• Assess existing structure
• Confirm bearing locations

That allows calculations to be completed quickly — often within 24 hours.

18/05/2026

May Is Extension Season

If you’re planning a rear extension this summer, now is the time to get structural design in place.

Beam design, lintels, stability — sorted early means fewer delays later.

16/05/2026

Monday Motivation: Keep Your Builder Moving

Builders don’t want week-long delays waiting for calculations.

That’s why I offer 24-hour turnaround on standard beam designs after site visit.

Speed + precision = smoother builds.

Message us directly for the quickest response.

13/05/2026

Cracks Above Windows Aren’t Always Cosmetic

In many North East homes, especially older brick properties, cracks above openings can indicate:

• Lintel failure
• Inadequate bearing
• Structural movement

Not every crack is serious — but some need investigation.

If you’re widening an opening or replacing doors, make sure the new lintel is properly designed.

Small oversight. Big consequences.

08/05/2026

Why Cheap Structural Design Can Cost More Later

Choosing the cheapest quote can result in:

• Undersized beams
• Building Control rejection
• On-site delays
• Redesign fees

Good structural design isn’t expensive compared to fixing mistakes.

Fast. Clear. Reliable.

05/05/2026

Padstones Explained

A steel beam doesn’t just sit on brickwork.

Loads must transfer safely into the masonry.

Padstones:
• Spread concentrated load
• Prevent crushing
• Improve stability

Small detail. Big structural importance.

02/05/2026

What Is Lateral Restraint – And Why Does It Matter?

When you remove a load-bearing wall, you’re not just supporting vertical loads.

You’re also affecting stability.

Lateral restraint prevents:
• Wall bowing
• Movement over time
• Structural instability

It’s one of the most overlooked aspects of residential alterations.

30/04/2026

End of Month Reminder: Planning Permission ≠ Building Regulations

Common confusion across residential projects.

Planning Permission deals with appearance and size.
Building Regulations deal with structure and safety.

Removing a wall or installing a beam requires Building Regulations compliance — even if planning wasn’t required.

That’s where structural calculations come in.

Feel free to drop us a message in our inbox for further support and advice.

27/04/2026

Monday Question: Do I Need Calculations for a Small Knock-Through?

Short answer? Usually yes.

Even modest openings can:
• Affect floor support
• Reduce wall stability
• Change load distribution

Building Control will typically require structural calculations.

Better to have them ready than delay your build.

24/04/2026

Thinking About Bi-Folds?

They look great. But structurally, they change everything.

Large glazed openings mean:
• Wider spans
• Heavier loads
• Reduced lateral stability

Especially in exposed North East coastal areas, wind load matters too.

Bi-fold installations almost always require proper beam design.

We are currently working on a beautiful extension design with proposed corner bi-folds, we can’t wait to share our design and the finished build with you.

22/04/2026

Rear Extension Planned for Summer?

Spring is when most North East extension projects begin.

Structurally, I check:
• Foundations
• Roof loading
• Openings
• Stability
• Existing structure condition

Beam and lintel design is often the key structural element.

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Middlesbrough

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