Building Technology

This book describes and illustrates the constructional processes, materials and components used in the erection of fairly simple domestic and associated buildings, and examines the principles and philosophy underlying their choice. Its primary aim is to meet the needs of students of a variety of disciplines whose studies embrace building technology.

Building drawing is important as it is often easier to explain building details by drawings or sketches than by written descriptions. Drawing thus forms an effective means of communication and drawings constitute an essential working basis for any building project. It is desirable to achieve maximum uniformity in the presentation of building drawings and this is assisted by implementing the recommendations contained in BS 1192: 1969 (Building drawing practice). This chapter is concerned with the various drawing materials in use and the basic principles to be observed in the preparation of drawings and sketches.

It is imperative that the foundations of a building be properly designed to spread the dead and superimposed loads over a sufficient area of soil. In this context ‘soil’ is that part of the earth which lies below the topsoil and above the rock, having being formed by the erosion of the earth’s crust by water, atmospheric means, and intense pressure over many thousands of years. This involves an understanding of soil types and their characteristics and awareness of the different types of foundation that are available. Chapter 1 dealt with site investigations and these included an examination of soil conditions and the level of the water table. These aspects are becoming even more important as some building sites now occupy land which has been avoided in the past. Building Research Establishment Digest 64¹ suggests an initial approach to the local authority with its intimate knowledge of soil and general conditions in the area. Older editions of Ordnance Survey maps may provide useful information on features that cause difficulty, such as infilled ponds, ditches and streams, disused pipes and sites of old buildings and tips. A polygonal pattern of cracks about 25 mm wide on the ground surface during a dry summer, indicates a shrinkable soil.

Walls to buildings can be constructed in various ways using a variety of materials. In order to appreciate the different constructional techniques and their relative merits, it is necessary to know the functions of walls in various locations. The principal methods used in the construction of both external and internal walls and partitions are examined in some detail.

Before examining the constructional requirements and techniques associated with fireplaces, flues and chimneys, it is helpful to consider their purpose, the changing form of appliances and the general objectives, against the background of statutory requirements.

This chapter examines the various types of floor and the constructional techniques and materials used in their provision. The techniques employed must be considered in relation to the functional requirements, in order to achieve a satisfactory form of construction. The form of construction selected may also influence the provision of other elements. For instance, the thickness of floors will affect the height of walling, and the choice between a solid or suspended ground floor can affect the location of services and the size of the heating installation.

This chapter examines the general principles involved in the design of roofs; the various forms of construction and coverings; the techniques used in roof drainage and insulation; and the materials employed.

This chapter examines the general principles of design of windows; the construction, detailing, fixing and uses of different types of window; glazing techniques; and the forms and uses of double glazing and double windows.

Consideration of general design principles is followed by an examination of the various types of door and their uses and the constructional techniques employed, together with the main characteristics of frames and linings. Finally, metal doors and ironmongery are investigated.

This chapter completes the study of joinery work by examining the design and construction of staircases and simple joinery fitments.

This chapter is concerned primarily with finishings to walls and ceilings. Floor finishings were considered in chapter 6. In selecting wall and ceiling finishings, probably the two most important considerations are appearance and maintenance costs. In particular situations other factors may also be important, such as resistance to condensation, acoustic properties and provision of a smooth, even surface.

This chapter examines the methods of supplying water to buildings, cold and hot water supply arrangements, sanitary appliances, waste systems and hot water heating. These aspects all relate to ‘sanitation and services’ but are included here as it was felt that a study of ‘building technology’ would not be complete without them.

This chapter is concerned with building drainage from initial design and statutory requirements to the constructional techniques and materials used and methods of disposal of the effluent. As in previous chapters reference will be made to appropriate Codes of Practice and British Standards.

The final chapter is concerned with the various external works provided in connection with buildings, apart from drainage and other underground services. They consist principally of roads, paved areas, footpaths, landscape work, fencing and gates.