No one seems to want to design the post anchorage and footings on my sliding gate/fence!
How do you typically handle engineering for site fencing and gates(footings, post anchorage etc)? I have always seen the structural engineer handle it, but now, they are saying the fence company should design it. I don’t currently have it called out as a delegated design…should I?
That’s what I usually do; the manufacturer knows their product and has access to the engineering people, either on staff (most likely), or can hire.
I’ve been spoiled. Typically my civil engineers design it since they’re more in tune with the ‘big picture.’
Lynne,
I would not delegate fence design. Instead download and review the Chain Link Fence Manufacturers Association’s Product Guide. It is a clear road to the work results you should expect. Here is the link: http://www.chainlinkinfo.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/CLFMIProductManual-Jan2014-revisions.pdf
I worked in that industry for a number of years. Field observation is critical for verifying the owner gets what he/she is paying for.
For fairly simple gates, delegated design. This is pretty common and allows for competitive bidding. Just make sure that any restrictions are indicated on the drawings or described in the specifications. For complicated portals, where you’re dealing with vehicle lanes, crash barriers, vehicle and man gates, guard shacks, gate and barrier operators, with 480v and hydraulic lines running everywhere, a structural/civil engineer may be involved in designing foundations, but unless the products are sole sourced, the final design may change based on the bid. That should be covered by the Shop Drawings.
Two valid reasons for the structural engineer not to want to design the fence posts.
The engineer is being asked to do it for free. Fence posts are not typically part of the engineers typical scope of work.
There is something unique about the gate that really should be designed by somebody who is familiar with similar designs.