BUILDING MATERIALS AND ELEMENTS PEWSENTA

building elements and building materials

1. According to the Uniclass classifications, ‘elements’ are: ‘…multi-trade built objects, made up of several systems, collectively serving a common purpose.

2. Foundation Plinth Superstructure Apart from the foundation and plinth, the superstructure has several components

3. Foundation Plinth Walls, columns Sills, lintels and chejjas Doors and windows Floors Roofs Steps, stairs, and lifts Finishing work Building services. Parapet

4. Foundations main functions and requirements are: (a) Evenly and safely distribute the superstructure loads to the soil. (b) it reduces the uneven and unequal settlement of the building. (c) It minimizes the overturning possibilities of building due to lateral forces. (d) It provides a level surface for the construction of a superstructure. part of the structure that transmits loads directly and safely to the soil or underlying rock. also called a substructure

5. Main functions of the plinth: transfer the superstructure load to the foundation. acts as a small retaining wall to keep the filling material just below the raised floor level of the building. protect the building from dampness or moisture penetration.enhances the appearance of the building. Plinth Beam A plinth beam is a structure between the surface of the surrounding ground and the immediate surface of the floor (just above the ground).

6. (a) It encloses the building area into separate compartments and provides privacy. (b) It provides safety from insects and theft. (c) Wall also works as an insulator for the Walls and Columns Vertical member of the building and transfer the structure loads to the foundation.

7. It holds the window or glass in place. It protects the wall directly below the window by shedding away from the wall. Chejja is the projection provided outside the wall to protect the door and windows from the rainwater. Sills, Lintels and Chejjas A window frame does not directly place over masonry; instead, it is placed over 50 to 75 mm thick plain concrete. This concrete course is called a sill. A sill serves two purposes.

8. Weather resistance Sound and thermal insulation Damp prevention and termite proof Fire resistance and durability Privacy and security The doors are used to give access to different rooms and to deny access whenever required. Windows are provided to get proper light and ventilation in the building. Doors and Windows

9. The primary function of a floor is to provide a working/functional area and support of occupants, furniture, and equipment of a building. Floors

10. Different kinds of roofs fulfil different requirements such as: A sloping roof gives good thermal protection and provides good air circulation space. A flat roof gives provision for additional floors and provides extra comfort to the occupants. Roofs must be leaked-proof. The sloping roof and A.C. sheet roof provide excellent leak proofing. The roof is the uppermost portion of the building, whose primary function is to enclose the space Roof

11. Functions of the stairs: It gives means of communication for a one-floor level to others on day-to-day use. Provide a way of escape in case of an emergency like a fire. Stairs are the structural component consist of steps that gives convenient access from the ground floor to other floor levels Stairs and Lifts

12. Function of finishing work is: I t gives a protective cover from sun, rain, and snow. Finishing work gives a smooth surface and improves the aesthetic view of the building. To some extent, rectify the defective workmanship. I t cover-up unsound and porous material used in construction. Some of the building portions like the bottom of the slab, walls, and top of the floor need smooth finishing with plaster. Finishing

13. Some built-in movable or immovable fixture which adds considerable utility to the building is called as utility fixtures. Building Utility Fixture

14. Parapets are short walls extended above the roof slab. Parapets are installed for flat roofs. It acts as a safety wall for people using the roof. Parapet

15. Tropical architecture is the design that focuses and responds to the climatic conditions of the tropics. It studies the significant influences that impact architecture in tropical regions and develops passive strategies to lessen heat gain. It also encourages air movement throughout the building, and it can also take various styles and forms. The main reason for this is its design influence. It is the climatic and environmental conditions of the tropics and not its appearance.

16. In tropical architecture, every building component like walls, doors, and windows, can be purposefully located which results in fluidity of space and light flowing in, out and around the building.

17. Water, exterior courtyards, open floor plans, white surfaces reflecting the sun and shade are consistent elements of Tropical Design. Colorful skies and coastal water blues reflect in the windows and off the clean white exteriors Make use of the sunny reflections of day and crystal glows of night Light colored walls aid in the natural lighting as they reflect more light and better illumination with the natural light Skylights

18. V erandas, covered walks, lanais and canopies are incorporated to structures to offset the heat. Incorporating extra-wide overhangs and deep porches as shelters from the sun and rain Careful selection and placement of windows and glass doors invite natural light indoors with the cool comfort of shade. High walls around the property can be installed to avoid the heat island effect from non-shaded areas. Roof angles can control the amount of sunlight that gets in the building

19. Strategically located windows and large sliding doors facilitate ventilation while providing transparency, views, and daylight. Expansive windows and sliding glass doors provide cross-ventilation, promote a seamless flow from indoors to outdoors, and frame stunning views of the location Rooms separated from the corridor by sliding doors allows air to circulate freely when the doors are open. Staggered slats allow for ventilation even when the doors are closed.

20. Skylights with a sliding glass pane on the topmost part of all the doors also allows air movement Having vents in the roof cavity to help draw out heat coming from the rooms in the building Some architectural designs will have openings on top of clerestory windows as well as staircases to promote air change. High ceilings to incorporate the concept that hot air rises and cool air goes down.

21. Landscaping with surrounding garden: Trees, grass and shallow pools are used to create a cooling effect .

22. Architecture is the expression of the materials and methods of that time. It is implied that the architecture of today appears to be dictated in the expressiveness of its form by modern materials and methods. "Essential truth" suggests an architecture that results from the state of mind of an era and that an architecture exists, takes form, and is expressed only at that very moment when a general evolution of mind is accomplished.

23. Building materials form an integral part in the field of architecture. The site selected as well as the nature of the surroundings determine the building type and choice of building material. The type and form of structure is determined by the type of material used. The concept of ‘building materials’ glorifies the endurance and visual aspects of design. Not only does it provide meaning but also enhances the aesthetic quality of a building— venustas (beauty) and firmitas (structure). CARRIOS

24. In designing a tropical structure, the materials play an important role in achieving the goals and design features of the building as well as the structure and function of the building. The characteristics of materials are important in expressing design techniques, the properties of their composition (e.g., structure, weight, durability) and the way they are used in structure. Their properties may be expressed and interpreted by the treatment of the surface, and their use may be expressed by emphasis on the dimensions and joining of the building units into which they are formed.

25. Heavyweight or Mass Walls Heavyweight or mass walls usually consist of solid material. These include concrete, adobe, rammed earth, or masonry units such as concrete blocks, bricks or stone . They can be covered with a plaster or render or can be left exposed.  Known for having a high thermal mass. Mass or heavyweight materials such as concrete, stone and brick can collect and store large amounts of heat energy.  Classification of Wall Material

26. Lightweight or Framed Walls Lightweight or framing wall construction typically uses wood or light gauge steel members. The frame is the structural element and transfers the loads from the roof down to the foundation. Cladding covers the frame and functions as a skin. EDORIA

27. In addition, exterior claddings include wood, metal, vinyl, or cement board sidings. Drywall or plasterboard is a popular panelling for inside, where it can avoid contact with moisture. Lightweight wall construction tends to have a low thermal mass. Hence, framed walls tend to have a low capacity for storing heat energy. EDORIA

28. Lightweight or framed construction using timber or metal framing is ideal for hot, humid tropical climates. Mass or heavyweight walls are better in temperate climates or climates where the temperature significantly differs between the day and night-time. Due to their thermal massing properties, they are ideal for warming up your home at night. EDORIA

29. The following insulation materials are good options in our hot, humid climate: Spray Foam Insulation There are two types of spray foam insulation options to choose from open-cell and closed-cell. Open-cell foam is more breathable and allows moisture to pass through the building without causing damage to other areas. Open-cell spray foam in humid climates should be used on attics, walls, and roofs. Closed-cell spray foam can be used in basements and under floorboards where damage is more likely to occur from outdoor moisture. Closed-cell spray foam is also ideal for areas of your building that could be at risk of flooding. EDORIA

30. Fiberglass Fiberglass is made of small glass fragments that are woven together. This is a good insulation method for humid climates because it absorbs very little water. Mineral Wool This is made in a similar way as fiberglass, except it's made out of volcanic rock, usually basalt. . EDORIA

31. Flexible elastomeric This is a great material to use for plumbing and ductwork. It keeps moisture away from the pipes and vents to prevent any damage there. It prevents condensation and is resistant to dirt. Cellular glass This lightweight and durable insulation is moisture resistant and doesn't absorb water. . EDORIA

32. Constructing Roofs for Tropical Climates Choosing a roofing contractor roofs with Light colours Installing reflective insulation under your roofing material. Installing vents or whirlybirds to allow hot air to escape from your ceiling cavity. Insulating your ceiling with bulk insulation

33. Metallic Roofing According to studies, metallic roofing can reflect up to 66 percent of the sun's energy away from the roof. Good quality metallic roofing will cost more than some other materials. When properly installed, metallic roofing stands up to extreme weather conditions better than most other materials.

34. Concrete Roofing Concrete is heavy and will resist being blown off the roof in heavy winds. Concrete tiles can withstand winds of up to 193 kilometers per hour. Concrete reflects up to 77 percent of the sun's energy away from the roof. White "S" shaped concrete tiles are even more effective at reflecting heat. The best concrete roof tiles for tropical climates may be flat tiles.

35. Slate Roofing Tiles Slate is one of the oldest roofing materials. It is a heavy material and slate tiles are usually flat, which helps them stay put in heavy winds. The downside to slate is that it is an expensive roofing material. Slate comes in a variety of colours , from greys to earth tones. A light grey or earth tone will reflect heat.

36. Terracotta Tiles Terracotta tiles are used in hot climates around the world. In general, terracotta tiles have low heat absorption. Both the shape and colour of terracotta roofing tiles can contribute to keeping your home cooler during the hot months. Today's terracotta tiles are oven baked and have a protective coating that helps reflect the sun's rays away from your roof. "S" shaped terracotta tiles allow air to circulate, which helps prevent heat capture.

37. Ceramic Roof Tiles A white ceramic tile will reflect most of the sun's heat energy away from the house. Ceramic tiles come in a wide variety of shapes and in dozens of colours , including tiles that appear aged. White ceramic tiles will reflect about 77 percent of the sun's heat away from the house.

38. Membrane Roofing Also called "rubber roofing," membrane roofing materials are actually made from Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM). It is a relatively new type of roofing material, but is able to stand up to harsh weather. Membranes made from thin sheets are also used under conventional roofing to help reduce heat transfer and shield the roof from water.

39. Luxury Vinyl Tile Luxury Vinyl Tile is a good option for a hot climates flooring. It comes in layers for durability. It holds up well to heat, damp conditions, and high traffic. It's also versatile and can work for different areas in your home like kitchens, basements, and even areas prone to water, like bathrooms.

40. Porcelain Tiles Porcelain is a human-made ceramic tile that withstands humid climates very well. It has a low absorption rate of 0.5 percent, making it essentially waterproof. In addition to withstanding temperature changes and humidity with ease, tile floors are also great for keeping your home cool.

41. Laminate I f you just live in a humid climate and are looking for budget-friendly, durable floors for your living room, dining room, or hallway, laminate flooring might be your answer. Look for high-pressure laminate floors, which are made with a special type of glue that minimizes moisture absorption.

42. Engineered Wood Made from layers of different woods that have been glued together, it is exceptionally strong and can withstand both heat and humidity. To make it more resistant to scratches and moisture, the latest engineered wood is impregnated with acrylic.

43. Bamboo Bamboo is durable, easy to clean and maintain, and resistant to scratches and humidity. It is as durable as hardwood. Bamboo is slightly more expensive than other flooring options. However, if you want something that will withstand pets, children, and humidity, bamboo flooring is recommended.