Parsways Structural Engineering Blog

Residential construction in Ontario faces harsh environmental conditions. Long winters with snow and ice, frequent freeze-thaw cycles, high summer humidity, and de-icing salts all accelerate corrosion.

Wood shear walls are a critical part of the lateral load–resisting system in wood-frame residential buildings across Ontario. Their primary role is to safely resist and transfer lateral loads—such as wind and seismic forces—from the structure to the foundation. Proper structural engineering design and construction are essential to ensure code compliance, durability, and long-term performance under Ontario conditions. What Is a Wood Shear Wall and How It Works A wood shear wal

Tall walls—walls taller than the usual limits in Ontario—require careful engineering. These walls are commonly used in modern homes, commercial spaces, and industrial buildings, and must safely resist both gravity and lateral forces.

Compare Ontario’s top engineered wood beams—LVL, LSL, PSL, and Glulam. Learn their strengths, spans, fire ratings, and best uses to choose the right beam for your construction project.

5 common foundation types used in Ontario construction. Compare cost, soil suitability, code compliance, and find the best fit for your site and climate challenges.

Multiple joist hangers supporting engineered joists in a residential floor framing system – ideal for code-compliant construction in Ontario.

Hot-dip galvanizing (HDG) is a durable solution for protecting structural steel from corrosion in Ontario’s harsh outdoor conditions. Learn why HDG is trusted by engineers for long-term performance and low maintenance.

Wondering how to safely remove a load-bearing wall in Ontario? Learn how to tell if a wall is load-bearing, steps for proper removal, requirements under the Ontario Building Code, and how structural engineering firms & consultants can help. Safe, compliant renovations start here.

Ontario’s winter climate creates significant challenges for concrete — from early-age freezing to slower strength gain and long-term freeze–thaw deterioration. These conditions directly impact the safety and durability of structural elements such as foundations, slabs-on-grade, retaining walls, an d load-bearing members. Cold-weather concreting is not just a construction task; it’s a structural durability requirement. Concrete placed in winter must meet OBC and CSA A23. 1

Professional insights on truss roof design, installation, and performance for residential and commercial wood frame structures in Ontario.

When designing a basement foundation wall, choosing between an ICF foundation and a traditional concrete wall can significantly impact energy performance, durability, and long-term costs. Both systems are widely used across Ontario, but they serve different priorities in structural design and efficiency.