BUILDING CONSTRUCTION

Structure And Construction Of The Various Components-

Building Construction



Components of Building Construction

Introduction

Building systems are those primary elements which together define the shape, utility, and comfort of built space. They are classified by discipline: Architectural, Structural, Mechanical, and Electrical. (Jenkins, 2000: 59) These systems must be planned and designed in concert; individually, they are composed of lesser components, such as interior framing systems, air-conditioning units and plumbing fixtures. Knowledge of how these systems coordinate and interconnect, as well as familiarity with the individual component systems and disciplines is essential for the successful integration of these items. Their coordination is critical to the overall appearance and operation of the completed interiors project.

Architectural

Architectural systems define the volumes and functions of a building. Every project begins with a statement of needs, developed by the end-user and designer, from which an initial space plan is developed. This plan sets the course for the rest of the project, including the locations of mechanical rooms, electrical closets, plumbing shafts, and data/communications shafts within the space. The development of other systems follows the architectural lead. Architectural systems are primarily concerned with enclosure (walls, roof), and definition (partitions, floors, ceilings). For interiors, definition is the primary concern. The primary system of organizing or defining architectural space is the partition. Partitions (or more commonly "walls") define and divide space. In modern construction, the stud-framed partition, either metal or wood, is most prevalent. In commercial construction metal is most frequently used (Fig. 1). A typical partition consists of studs at 400 mm (16 inches) on center with gypsum wallboard on each side. The partition may bear directly on structure, or sit on the finished floor, and may extend to the ceiling or beyond - depending upon various requirements placed on the wall to control thermal variance, acoustics, firespread, etc. Its thickness may range from 65 mm (2-1/2 inches) to more than 300 mm (12 inches) depending on what services are contained within, or what other requirements are placed upon it. Stud partitions are basically hollow, thus providing opportunity for distribution of power, communications and tempering systems. In addition, they may be filled or insulated for increased thermal and acoustical performance. Partitions may be pre-constructed or demountable—built in factories to modular sizes and shipped to a jobsite for installation. In addition to gypsum wallboard and wood or metal studs, partitions may be glass, wood, metal, or masonry. In each case, the only requirement is that the partition satisfy the demands placed upon it, and that the existing structure be able to support it. (Eckel, 2007: 47)

Floors and ceilings also define architectural spaces. Although partitions in the strict sense of the word, they are not typically referred to as partitions except in specific instances. (When partitioning off a space, the ceiling is a part of that partition and must therefore meet code partition requirements; however, it is still generally referred to as the ceiling.) Together, floor and ceiling planes make up the largest share of an interior ...