In situations where the loadings are high, it may not be possible to design a masonry pier small enough to fit in with the aesthetic or practical requirements. In these circumstances a steel column is often needed. For the same load capacity, a steel column will be much more slender than a masonry pier. If the column is at ground floor level and the loads are high, it is likely that the column will need a new pad foundation.

Our structural calculations for a steel column includes the design of the column and baseplate. Our structural design also provides details on any holding down bolts which may be necessary.

We need the following information to design a steel column:

architectural layouts or sketch drawings with dimensions, so we can work out all the loadings on the column

the height of the column

type of construction (concrete or timber floors, brick or block walls etc)

Design information

All design work is carried out in accordance with BS5950 (The structural use of steelwork).

The calculations provided will be suitable for Building Regulation approval.