Structural plans are the detailed drawings and calculations that ensure your home is built safely and efficiently. These documents are typically created by a structural engineer after reviewing your architectural drawings. They outline exactly how your home will be constructed, down to the size and placement of key components like beams, headers, floor joists, and support posts.

What do structural plans include?

• Foundation Plans: Details about footings, slab thickness, and reinforcements.

• Framing Layouts: The size, type, and placement of beams, joists, and trusses.

• Roof Structure: Specifications for rafters, sheathing, and other roof supports.

• Load-Bearing Elements: Locations of walls, columns, and posts critical to the home’s stability.

• Connection Details: How materials are fastened together, from bolts to welds.

Without structural plans, you’re limited with your design and left with generic construction that limits the size, materials, and complexity of your home. If your home has unique features, such as large window openings or cantilevered spaces, structural plans ensure those elements are properly supported without compromising the overall stability of the house.

Between your architectural and structural plans, this will provide your contractors with enough information to submit for permits and build the new home or renovation. 

Note: If you’re located in Canada, your structural engineer will include the Letters of Assurance (schedules). 

But occasionally, if the project is large enough, you will need some additional plans…