Building Components - Detailed Notes
Building Plans
Definition: A building plan is a graphical representation of the layout, design, and structure
of a building, showing details like dimensions, rooms, walls, doors, windows, and other
elements.
Types of Plans:
- Site Plan: Shows the location of the building on the plot.
- Floor Plan: Top view showing room arrangement and dimensions.
- Elevation: Shows the vertical view of a building (front, side, rear).
- Section: Cut view showing internal structure and height details.
Purpose: Guides construction work, ensures safety and compliance with building codes
(NBC – National Building Code).
Setting Out of a Building
Definition: The process of transferring the plan from paper to the ground to mark the exact
position of the building.
Procedure:
- Mark reference lines using stakes and strings.
- Use theodolite, total station, or measuring tape for accuracy.
- Check for right angles using the 3-4-5 method.
Purpose: Ensures accurate positioning of walls, foundations, and structural elements.
Foundations
Definition: The lowermost part of a building that transfers loads to the ground.
Functions:
- Distribute building loads evenly.
- Prevent unequal settlement.
- Provide stability.
Types of Foundations:
- Shallow Foundations: Isolated, Combined, and Raft/Mat foundations.
- Deep Foundations: Pile and Pier foundations.
Bearing Capacity: The ability of the soil to support the load from the building.
Settlement: Downward movement of a structure due to compression of soil.
Brick Masonry
Definition: Construction of walls and structures using bricks and mortar.
Types of Brick Bonds: Stretcher, Header, English, and Flemish bonds.
Qualities of Good Brickwork:
- Proper alignment and leveling.
- Uniform mortar thickness (10–12 mm).
- Bricks well soaked before use.
Stone Masonry
Definition: Construction using stones bonded with mortar.
Types:
- Random Rubble Masonry: Irregular stones.
- Coursed Rubble Masonry: Stones in layers.
- Ashlar Masonry: Precisely cut stones for fine finish.
Uses: Foundations, retaining walls, arches, and bridges.
Beams
Definition: Horizontal structural members that transfer loads from slabs to columns or
walls.
Types: Simply Supported, Cantilever, Continuous, and Fixed beams.
Materials: Reinforced Concrete, Steel, Timber.
Columns
Definition: Vertical load-bearing members transferring loads from beams/slabs to
foundations.
Types: Short Columns (crushing failure) and Long Columns (buckling failure).
Materials: RCC, Steel, Timber.
Lintels
Definition: Horizontal structural members placed above doors, windows, and openings to
support the load above.
Materials: RCC, Brick, Stone, Steel, or Timber.
Purpose: Prevents load transfer directly onto the frames.
Roofing
Definition: The top covering of a building to protect against weather.
Types: Flat Roof, Pitched Roof, Shell, and Domed Roofs.
Materials: Tiles, Metal Sheets, RCC, Asphalt, Thatch.
Flooring
Definition: The bottom surface of a room on which people walk.
Types: Mud, Cement Concrete, Tile, Marble, and Wooden flooring.
Requirements: Durability, smooth finish, easy cleaning, and aesthetic appearance.
Plastering
Definition: Coating of mortar on walls, ceilings, or surfaces to obtain a smooth finish.
Types: Cement, Lime, and Gypsum plaster.
Purpose: Protects surfaces, improves appearance, and prevents moisture penetration.
National Building Code (NBC)
Definition: A comprehensive document published by BIS providing guidelines for building
design and construction.
Objectives:
- Ensure safety, structural stability, and fire protection.
- Maintain health, hygiene, and environmental standards.
- Regulate materials, planning, and construction practices.
Major Parts Include:
Part 0: Integrated Approach
Part 1: Administration
Part 2: Development Control Rules
Part 3: Fire and Life Safety
Part 4: Structural Design
Part 5: Building Materials
Part 6: Construction Practices
Part 7: Building Services
Part 8: Building Safety and Maintenance.