Structural works (gros œuvre) are all the construction operations that guarantee the solidity, stability and weatherproofing of a building. They include the foundations, the infrastructure (slabs, basement walls) and the superstructure (load-bearing walls, columns, beams, floors and roof frame).
The key stages
A preliminary geotechnical study determines the nature of the ground and the appropriate type of foundations. Earthworks follow, then the pouring of the foundations and slab. The superstructure is then raised: load-bearing walls, reinforced concrete columns and beams, before the roof frame and covering are fitted to make the building weathertight.
Why it is decisive
The quality of the structural works determines the durability of the building and the safety of its occupants for several decades. A defect at this stage is difficult and costly to correct once the finishing trades have started. That is why MaythEG systematically combines a geotechnical and structural study with every structural works project, whatever its size.