Module 1
Building Components
Introduction to Building Elements and Their Functions
CVE 314 Construction Technology | FUOYE
Learning Objectives
Identify the main components of a building structure
Understand the difference between structural and non-structural elements
Know the load transfer path from roof to foundation
Understand the functions of each building component
Know the performance requirements for building elements
Recognize different types of walls and their purposes
Building Components Overview
Main Building Components
Foundation Transfers building loads to the ground, provides stability and support
Walls Enclose space, support loads (if load-bearing), provide weather protection
Floors Provide level surfaces, support occupants and contents, separate storeys
Roof Protects from weather, supports coverings, may provide insulation
Doors Allow access and egress, provide security, fire compartmentation
Windows Admit natural light and ventilation, views, emergency egress
Stairs Vertical circulation between levels, fire escape route
Structural vs Non-Structural
Understanding which elements are structural is critical for alterations, maintenance, and ensuring building safety. Never remove
structural elements without engineering assessment.
Load Transfer Path
Types of Building Loads
Dead Loads Live Loads
Permanent, static loads from the weight of the building itself -
Variable loads from occupancy and use - people, furniture, stored
structure, finishes, fixed equipment. Calculated from material
materials. Specified by building codes based on use.
weights.
Example: Walls, floors, roof, permanent partitions Example: People, furniture, equipment, stock
Wind Loads Snow Loads
Lateral loads from wind pressure and suction on building surfaces. Loads from accumulated snow on roofs. Varies with location, roof
Varies with location, height, and building shape. pitch, and exposure.
Example: Pressure on walls, uplift on roof Example: Snow accumulation on flat/pitched roofs
Performance Requirements
Structural Stability Resist all applied loads without collapse, excessive deflection, or vibration
Weather Resistance Exclude rain, wind, and snow; control air infiltration
Fire Safety Resist fire spread, maintain escape routes, protect structure
Thermal Performance Minimize heat loss/gain, maintain comfort, reduce energy use
Sound Insulation Control airborne and impact sound transmission between spaces
Durability Maintain performance over design life with reasonable maintenance
Accessibility Allow access and use by people with disabilities
Foundations
Functions of Foundations Foundation Types
Strip:
Continuous walls
Pad:
• Transfer all building loads to ground Point loads (columns)
• Spread loads to acceptable bearing pressure
• Anchor building against uplift and sliding Raft:
Whole building footprint
• Provide level base for construction
• Resist ground movement (settlement, heave) Piles:
Deep bearing strata
• Protect against frost damage
• Accommodate services entry Piers:
Heavy point loads to rock
Types of Walls
Load-bearing walls must be supported by adequate foundations. Partition walls can be built off floor slabs. External walls must meet
thermal, acoustic, and weather resistance requirements.
Floors
Floor Functions Floor Types
Solid ground floor:
Concrete slab on hardcore
• Provide level walking surface Suspended timber:
• Support occupants and contents Joists on sleeper walls
• Separate storeys (upper floors) Beam and block:
• Resist fire spread between levels Precast beams + infill blocks
• Provide sound insulation
Timber upper floor:
• Support internal partitions
Joists bearing on walls
• Accommodate services distribution
• Contribute to lateral stability Concrete upper floor:
In-situ or precast slabs
Doors and Windows
Doors Windows
• Provide access and egress • Admit natural daylight
• Security and privacy • Provide ventilation (openable)
• Fire compartmentation (fire doors) • Views out and visual connection
• Sound insulation • Emergency escape (min size)
• Weather protection (external) • Solar heat gain (passive solar)
• Visual connection (glazed) • Weather resistance
• Emergency escape route • Security when closed
Roofs
Roof Functions Roof Types
Flat roof:
1:40 to 1:80 fall, membrane covering
• Weather protection (rain, snow, wind) Pitched roof:
• Structural support for loads 15-60 degrees, tiles or slates
• Thermal insulation Trussed rafter:
• Solar protection Factory-made, spans to 12m
• Rainwater collection/discharge
Cut roof:
• Fire resistance
Traditional site-built rafters
• Accommodate services
• Support coverings and finishes Mono-pitch:
Single slope, lean-to
Building Services (M&E)
Water Supply Drainage
Cold and hot water distribution, storage, pressure management Foul water (sanitary), surface water (rain), combined systems
Electrical Heating
Power distribution, lighting, emergency systems, data/comms Boilers, radiators, underfloor heating, heat pumps
Ventilation Gas Supply
Natural ventilation, mechanical extract, HVAC systems Mains gas distribution, safety systems, metering
Module 1: Key Takeaways
Main components: foundation, walls, floors, roof, doors, windows, stairs
Structural elements bear loads; non-structural can be altered more freely
Load path: roof → walls → floors → walls → foundation → ground
Loads include dead, live, wind, and snow - all must be resisted
Performance requirements: stability, weather, fire, thermal, acoustic, durability
Walls: load-bearing (support loads), partition (divide space), external (envelope)
Foundations spread loads to soil; type depends on soil and building loads
Building services (M&E) provide water, drainage, power, heating, ventilation