In structural design, accurate analysis of concrete, steel and timber structures is crucial, for a both safe and economical result. Yet these types of structural calculations are still often performed incorrectly, leading to all sorts of issues, from overestimated load-bearing capacity to unexpected deformations. In this article, we highlight the most common mistakes and explain how to avoid them.
1. Incorrect or missing boundary conditions
One of the most common mistakes in concrete, steel and timber calculations is incorrectly defining boundary conditions in the calculation model. This includes how beams are supported or how columns are fixed at the base. If these conditions don’t match the actual situation on site, the entire calculation may be off, even if the rest of the model is accurate.
Boundary conditions determine how forces are transferred and how elements behave. Always make sure your supports and connections in the model reflect the actual design and execution plans.
2. Copying old calculations
Reusing previous concrete, steel and timber calculations might seem convenient, but it often leads to mistakes. Old models may contain input that no longer applies to the new project. Changes in dimensions, loads or support types are easily overlooked. The use of outdated standards may also remain in place without being noticed.
Use previous work only as a reference, and always perform a full check of all input values and calculation settings.
3. Applying incorrect safety factors & load combinations
Another common mistake is the incorrect application of load safety factors and load combination factors. Both lead to wrong load combinations. The Eurocode provides clear guidelines on how to combine various loads, such as self-weight, snow and wind. In practice, some combinations are sometimes forgotten or misapplied, leading to either overestimation or underestimation of the real loads and therefore unreliable results.
Using software that automatically generates correct Eurocode-compliant combinations greatly reduces the risk of such errors.
4. Underestimating material behaviour
Concrete, steel and timber each respond differently to loading. Concrete, for example, will almost always crack, leading to additional deformation. Both concrete and timber, are sensitive to creep: a deformation that gradually develops under constant load. Think of a wooden beam supporting a ceiling for years. Over time, it will slowly bend, even if the load doesn’t change.
Steel structures, on the other hand, are sensitive to imperfections, even minor imperfections in the shape or dimensions of steel elements can significantly affect their stability, especially under compressive or bending loads.
It’s important to take this particular material behaviour into account in every calculation, especially for long-term loads or slender structures.
5. Lack of transparency
Calculations should not only be correct, but also clear and traceable. When you don’t explain which loads are used, what verifications have been done or how connections are modelled, it’s hard for others to spot mistakes or give useful feedback.
Reliable software automatically generates clear calculation reports, helping you work more accurately, transparently and professionally.
Avoid mistakes with the right tools
Want to avoid mistakes in concrete, steel and timber calculations? Start by using software that supports you at every step, both efficiently and accurately. Tools like Diamonds by BuildSoft guide you through the process and help detect potential issues early on.
