DAVE KIESSLING, RCS, RS | PS&S
When a structure is damaged by fire, the restoration process must begin with a thorough and expert structural assessment. Fire restoration isn’t just about rebuilding what was lost—it’s about understanding how fire, heat, and smoke affect various building materials and systems, and ensuring that any repair or reconstruction results in a safe, code-compliant, and resilient structure.
Structural engineers play a pivotal role in this process, starting with a detailed evaluation of the damage. Their primary responsibility is to determine whether the integrity of critical structural elements— such as beams, columns, load- bearing walls, and foundations— has been compromised. Even if a structure appears intact, fire can weaken concrete, warp steel, and char or burn through wood framing, significantly diminishing material strength. Engineers must examine these components for signs of cracking, deflection, spalling, and discoloration, which may point to hidden structural issues.
In addition to the structural components, engineers assess the condition of building systems, including electrical, mechanical, and plumbing infrastructure. Electrical wiring exposed to high heat can become hazardous, even if there are no obvious signs of damage. HVAC systems may spread smoke and soot throughout the building, impacting indoor air quality long
after the fire is extinguished. Fire restoration requires a holistic approach, with engineers collaborating closely with other professionals, such as emergency response companies, to develop comprehensive, safe, and effective recovery strategies.
A key aspect of the engineer’s role is to determine what can be repaired and what must be replaced. For instance, steel may regain its strength upon cooling, but it may also suffer from permanent deformation. Similarly, concrete that appears undamaged can become brittle or unstable due to thermal expansion and contraction. Each case requires careful judgment based on principles of material science, current building codes, and safety standards. Obtaining material specimens for laboratory testing may become necessary.
Following the assessment, engineers produce detailed reports, restoration plans, and specifications. These documents are essential for insurance claims, permitting, and guiding contractors through the bidding and reconstruction phases. Restoration may also involve upgrading certain elements to meet modern building codes, particularly if the structure was originally built under outdated standards. Engineers ensure that the rebuilt environment not only matches the functionality of the original but is also more durable and better prepared for the future.
Coordination is another critical responsibility. Engineers work alongside architects, code officials, insurance adjusters, and construction teams to guide the entire restoration process. Their technical expertise ensures that safety is prioritized at every step—from demolition of compromised areas to final construction—backed by data, analysis, and industry best practices.
Ultimately, fire restoration from an engineering perspective is about turning disaster into an opportunity for improvement. It requires technical skill, sound judgment, and a deep understanding of how buildings respond to fire. Whether dealing with localized damage or leading the recovery of a large-scale loss, engineers are essential to restoring not only the structure itself but also the safety and confidence of those who rely on it.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Dave Kiessling, RCS, RS is Vice President with PS&S. Mr. Kiessling has been with PS&S, formally DW Smith, for 8 years and had over 30 years of experience in the construction industry when he joined the team. He now serves as Vice President of Construction Services and directs the Community Association Department and is tasked with the day- to-day operations, which includes but is not limited to scheduling of field inspectors, assigning projects, proposal management, plan specification development, board meetings, billings, and business development. Contact him via email at:
dkiessling@psands.com.
www.CAIKey sto ne .org 17
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