Journal
All Journal articles here are written by humans, not AI. We share our own engineering expertise, experience, and perspective because if you’re taking the time to read it, we’d like to make it worthwhile. Expect real opinions, real life, and the odd typo.
The short lifespan of a timber crib lock wall
Timber crib lock walls were widely built 15–20 years ago. Now many are failing at the same time, and ripping them out isn’t an option for most sites. Read about how we’re using smarter stabilisation techniques that keep schools, care homes and community buildings safe without costly, disruptive rebuilds.
When the heat is on - how heatwaves and drought can damage buildings
Heatwaves and drought are driving a rise in subsidence across the UK, especially in properties built on clay soils. When clay shrinks in hot, dry weather and swells again in winter, it can cause foundation movement, cracks in walls, and long-term structural damage. In this blog, MESH Engineering explore the impact of heatwaves on buildings, common causes of subsidence such as tree roots and leaking drains, and what homeowners, insurers, and property managers can do to protect their buildings.
Demolish or Refurbish? How VAT Policy is undermining the UK’s housing and climate goals
MESH Engineering have seen this first-hand how developers and housing providers are frequently steered toward demolition not because the structure is unviable, but because VAT makes it the more financially attractive option. It’s a policy contradiction that’s hard to ignore and one that puts short-term economics ahead of long-term sustainability.
In this blog we take a look at the issue and how the system rewards waste over sustainable refurbishment and what other countries are doing to encourage renovation.
Planning Approval vs. Building Control: why your project needs both (and why they don't talk to each other)
This MESH Engineering guide outlines the difference between planning approval and building control, and how engaging your structural engineers early in the project can help bridge the gap between the two processes.
A Structural Engineer’s guide on how to navigate the barn conversion process
This MESH Engineering guide outlines the essential structural considerations that will help you successfully transform an agricultural building into a safe and sustainable home, because converting a barn into a functional and compliant living space requires more than just vision.
Can your barn be converted? A Structural Engineer’s tips
Before diving into design ideas, the first and most crucial question is: can your barn actually be converted? Understanding the structural and planning requirements early can save significant time, money, and frustration down the line.
Here, MESH Engineering break down the key factors that determine whether a barn is a viable candidate for conversion.