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JIT FOR 3 YEAR CIVIL AND ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERIG STUDENTS 2017 E.C

General notes for Building Construction 2

1.3 Components of a Building
 Buildings are composed of essential components, including:

 Foundations: Support the structure and transfer loads to the ground.

 Superstructure: Includes walls, columns, beams, floors, and roofs that provide the

building's shape and support.

 Building Services: Electrical, plumbing, HVAC, fire safety, and communication

systems.
 Finishes: Aesthetic and functional elements such as flooring, paint, and ceiling

treatments.
1.4 Design and Performance Requirements
 Buildings must meet specific design and performance criteria to ensure functionality,
safety, and sustainability:
 Structural Integrity: Resist loads and environmental forces.
 Durability: Withstand wear, weather, and aging.
 Safety: Incorporate fire resistance, emergency egress, and health standards.
 Energy Efficiency: Reduce energy consumption through insulation and renewable
energy systems.
 Aesthetics: Align with the intended appearance and architectural style.
 Adaptability: Facilitate future modifications or expansions.
1.5 Project Life Cycle of a Building
 The project life cycle encompasses:
 Conceptualization: Initial planning and feasibility studies.
 Design: Detailed architectural and engineering designs.
 Construction: Building the structure according to design specifications.
 Operation and Maintenance: Ensuring the building's functionality post-
construction.
 Decommissioning or Renovation: Dismantling or refurbishing at the end of its
usable life.

PREPARED BY; Mulugeta M. (MSc)

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JIT FOR 3 YEAR CIVIL AND ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERIG STUDENTS 2017 E.C

1.6 Main Parties in Building Construction

 Key stakeholders include:
 Client/Owner: Initiates and finances the project.
 Architects and Designers: Develop design concepts and construction plans.
 Engineers: Handle structural, electrical, mechanical, and other technical aspects.
 Contractors/Subcontractors: Execute the construction work.
 Suppliers: Provide materials and equipment.
 Regulators/Inspectors: Ensure compliance with laws and standards.
1.7 Resources for Building Construction
 Essential resources required for construction:
 Materials: Concrete, steel, timber, bricks, and finishing materials.
 Labor: Skilled and unskilled workers, including specialists.
 Equipment: Tools and machinery for excavation, lifting, and assembly.
 Financial Resources: Budget and funding for the project.
 Time: Adequate scheduling and project management to meet deadlines.
 Technology: Use of advanced methods like BIM (Building Information Modeling) and
automation.
These elements collectively ensure that a building project is planned, executed, and maintained
efficiently and sustainably
Building Drawing Topics
2.1 Introduction
 Building drawings are essential tools for visualizing and planning construction projects.
 They serve as a medium for communication between architects, engineers, and
contractors.
 These drawings provide detailed information about the design, dimensions, materials, and
construction processes.
2.2 Drawing for Building Construction
 Construction drawings are technical representations used during building projects. They
include:
 Architectural Drawings: Show layouts, elevations, and design details.
 Structural Drawings: Detail the framework and load-bearing components.

PREPARED BY; Mulugeta M. (MSc)

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JIT FOR 3 YEAR CIVIL AND ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERIG STUDENTS 2017 E.C

 MEP Drawings (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing): Indicate service systems like HVAC,
wiring, and plumbing.
Site Plans: Depict the building's location, orientation, and surrounding features.
2.3 Working Drawings
Working drawings provide comprehensive instructions for contractors to execute the design:
 Plans: Horizontal sections of a building at specific levels.
 Elevations: Vertical views of the building's exterior.
 Sections: Cut-through views to show internal structures.
 Details: Close-ups of specific components for clarity, like windows, stairs, or joints.
 These drawings ensure construction accuracy and compliance with design specifications.
2.4 Hatching, Symbols, and Notations
 Hatching: Patterns used in drawings to represent different materials (e.g., diagonal lines
for concrete, cross-hatching for brickwork)
 Symbols: Standardized icons representing various components, such as doors, windows,
and electrical outlets.
 Notations: Text annotations used to describe dimensions, materials, and other specifics.
These elements ensure clarity, uniformity, and ease of interpretation across all stakeholders.
Building drawings are indispensable for ensuring precision, minimizing errors, and achieving the
desired outcomes in construction projects.
Building Structural Systems
3.1 Introduction
 Structural systems are frameworks designed to support and transmit loads safely to the
ground.
 The choice of structural system depends on factors like building function, load
requirements, material availability, and cost.
 Key objectives include stability, durability, and efficient use of materials.
3.2 Reinforced Concrete Structures
 Reinforced concrete combines concrete's compressive strength with steel's tensile
strength.
 Commonly used for beams, columns, slabs, and foundations.

PREPARED BY; Mulugeta M. (MSc)

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JIT FOR 3 YEAR CIVIL AND ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERIG STUDENTS 2017 E.C

Advantages of Reinforced concrete :

 High strength and durability.
 Resistance to fire and weathering.
 Applications: Residential buildings, bridges, dams, and high-rise structures.
3.3 Steel Framed Structures
 Steel structures use a framework of steel beams and columns.
Characteristics:
 Lightweight and high tensile strength.
 Easy to fabricate and assemble.
 Often used for skyscrapers, industrial facilities, and large-span structures (e.g., stadiums,
warehouses).
3.4 Timber Structures
 Timber is a renewable, lightweight, and versatile construction material.
Common types:
1. Traditional timber framing: Used for small-scale buildings.
2. Engineered wood (e.g., glulam, CLT): Provides higher strength and stability.
3. Applications: Residential buildings, wooden bridges, and sustainable construction
projects.
3.5 Prefabricated Building Systems
 Prefabricated systems involve manufacturing building components off-site for quick
assembly on-site.
Features:
 Reduces construction time and waste.
 Ensures consistent quality.
 Types include precast concrete panels, modular units, and steel assemblies.
 Popular for housing, schools, and temporary structures.
3.6 Shell and Dome Structures
 Shell structures are thin, curved surfaces that distribute loads efficiently, such as roofs
and pavilions.
 Dome structures are spherical or semi-spherical frameworks offering strength and
stability.

PREPARED BY; Mulugeta M. (MSc)

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JIT FOR 3 YEAR CIVIL AND ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERIG STUDENTS 2017 E.C

 Advantages:
 Lightweight yet strong.
 Aesthetic appeal and efficient use of materials.
 Used in sports arenas, exhibition halls, and iconic architectural designs.
These structural systems address varying architectural, functional, and environmental
requirements, contributing to the diversity and adaptability of modern construction techniques
Building Construction Elements
4.1 Foundations
 Foundations support the structure and transfer its loads to the ground.
Types include:
1. Shallow Foundations: Spread footings, raft foundations (used for lighter loads).
2. Deep Foundations: Piles, caissons (for heavy loads and unstable soils).
 Key considerations: Soil type, load capacity, and structural stability.
4.2 Floor Systems
 Floors provide horizontal surfaces for occupants and equipment.
Types include:
1. Slabs: Reinforced concrete, steel, or timber.
2. Raised Floors: Allow space for utilities like cables and ducts.
3. Suspended Floors: Built above ground level for insulation or ventilation.
4.3 Wall System
 Walls enclose spaces, provide structural support, and divide areas.
Types:
1. Load-Bearing Walls: Support vertical loads.
2. Non-Load-Bearing Walls: Serve as partitions.
3. Materials: Brick, concrete blocks, timber, or glass.
4.4 Stairs
 Stairs facilitate vertical movement within a building.
 Components include treads, risers, handrails, and landings.
 Common designs: Straight, spiral, and helical stairs.
 Materials: Concrete, steel, timber, or stone.

PREPARED BY; Mulugeta M. (MSc)

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JIT FOR 3 YEAR CIVIL AND ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERIG STUDENTS 2017 E.C

4.5 Doors and Windows

 Doors: Provide access and security. Types: Hinged, sliding, revolving.
 Windows: Allow natural light and ventilation. Types: Casement, awning, fixed, sliding.
 Materials: Wood, aluminum, PVC, or steel.
4.6 Roof System
 Roofs protect buildings from weather and provide insulation.
Types:
1. Flat Roofs: Easy to construct, used for terraces.
2. Pitched Roofs: Sloped for efficient water drainage.
3. Green Roofs: Eco-friendly with vegetation layers.
4. Materials: Tiles, metal sheets, asphalt shingles.
4.7 Finishing
 It enhances the building’s aesthetic and functional appeal.
 It includes plastering, painting, flooring, and cladding.
 Types: Interior (e.g., wall paint, tiles) and exterior finishes (e.g., stucco, siding).
4.8 Damp Proofing
To prevents water ingress and dampness in walls and floors.
Methods:
 Membranes: Bituminous, polythene sheets.
 Chemical Treatments: Water-repellent coatings.
 Drainage Systems: Reduce water accumulation near foundations.
4.9 Fireplaces
Provide heating and serve as a design feature.
 Components include chimneys, hearths, and flues.
 Materials: Brick, stone, or cast iron.
 Modern alternatives: Electric and gas fireplaces.
4.10 Formwork and Scaffolding
 Formwork: Temporary molds for casting concrete elements (e.g., beams, slabs).
 Types: Timber, steel, aluminum, plastic.
 Scaffolding: Temporary structures to support workers and materials during
construction.

PREPARED BY; Mulugeta M. (MSc)

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JIT FOR 3 YEAR CIVIL AND ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERIG STUDENTS 2017 E.C

 Types: Tubular, modular, suspended scaffolds.

 These construction elements collectively form the foundation of functional, durable,
and aesthetically pleasing buildings

PREPARED BY; Mulugeta M. (MSc)