P.N.
Dandeniya
QS Level 05
Batch: - 2023/01 BUILDING CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY
(F45C002M03)
Assignment
1. Comparison of on-site construction & off-site construction
Answer:
On-Site Construction
Advantages:
Customization: High degree of flexibility and customization according to specific site conditions.
Adaptability: Easier to make design changes and modifications during the construction process.
Material Transport: Direct delivery of materials to the construction site, reducing the need for
intermediate storage.
Disadvantages:
Time-Consuming: Typically takes longer due to weather delays, logistical issues, and site-specific
challenges.
Weather Dependent: Construction progress can be significantly affected by adverse weather conditions.
*Site Disruptions: Greater impact on the surrounding environment and neighborhood due to noise, dust,
and traffic.
Off-Site Construction
Advantages:
Speed: Faster construction times as modules are built simultaneously with site preparation.
Quality Control: Improved quality control as components are manufactured in a controlled factory
environment.
Reduced Waste: More efficient use of materials and less waste produced during manufacturing.
Disadvantages:
Design Limitations: Less flexibility in design and customization compared to on-site construction.
Transportation Issues: Challenges related to transporting large prefabricated components to the site.
Initial Cost: Higher upfront costs for setting up manufacturing facilities and transportation logistics.
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2. Identify building elements and list down materials to construct them.
Answer:
1.Foundation:
- Materials: Concrete, steel rebar, aggregates, waterproofing membranes.
2. Structural Frame:
- Materials: Steel, reinforced concrete, timber.
3. Walls:
- Materials: Bricks, concrete blocks, precast concrete panels, insulation materials, drywall, plaster.
4.Roof:
- Materials: Timber, steel trusses, roofing tiles (ceramic, concrete), metal sheets, asphalt shingles.
5. Floors:
- Materials: Concrete, timber, steel, insulation materials, floor finishes (tiles, wood, carpet).
6. Windows and Doors:
- Materials: Glass, aluminum, wood, PVC, composite materials.
7. Electrical Systems:
- Materials: Copper wires, electrical conduits, switchboards, light fixtures.
8. Plumbing Systems:
- Materials: PVC pipes, copper pipes, stainless steel, brass fittings.
9. Insulation:
- Materials: Fiberglass, foam boards, cellulose, mineral wool.
10. Finishes:
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- Materials: Paint, plaster, ceramic tiles, wood veneers, laminates.
3. Identify different building construction methods.
Answer:
1.Traditional (Stick) Building:
- Uses timber or steel frames constructed on-site, with brick or block walls.
2. Modular Construction:
- Prefabricated modules built off-site and assembled on-site.
3. Panelized Construction:
- Prefabricated panels (walls, floors, roofs) constructed off-site and assembled on-site.
4. Tilt-Up Construction:
- Concrete panels cast on-site and then tilted up into position.
5. Steel Frame Construction:
- A skeletal framework of steel beams and columns is constructed on-site.
6.Concrete Frame Construction:
- A framework of reinforced concrete columns, beams, and slabs is constructed on-site.
4. Describe building regulations in Sri Lanka are designed to ensure safety, health, and
environmental standards in construction and urban development.
Answer:
In Sri Lanka, building regulations are designed to ensure safety, health, and environmental standards in
construction and urban development. Key regulations and their purposes include:
1. Urban Development Authority (UDA) Regulations:
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- Zoning Laws: Define land use categories and control the type of development allowed in different
areas.
- Building Heights and Setbacks: Ensure adequate light, ventilation, and privacy for buildings.
2. National Building Research Organization (NBRO) Guidelines:
- Disaster Resilience: Mandate construction practices to withstand natural disasters like earthquakes,
floods, and landslides.
3. Sri Lanka Standard (SLS) Codes:
- Material Standards: Ensure the quality and safety of construction materials used in buildings.
4. Public Health Regulations:
- Sanitation and Water Supply: Ensure buildings have adequate sanitation facilities and safe drinking
water.
- Ventilation and Lighting: Mandate minimum standards for natural and artificial ventilation and
lighting.
5. Environmental Protection:
- Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA): Required for large projects to assess and mitigate
environmental impacts.
- Sustainable Construction Practices: Promote the use of sustainable materials and energy-efficient
building designs.
These regulations collectively aim to create safe, sustainable, and habitable urban environments while
minimizing adverse environmental impacts.
5. Name the main parties involved in building construction project
Answer
A construction project typically involves various parties with different roles and responsibilities.
Client/Owner: The entity or individual commissioning the construction project. They define the project
requirements, provide funding, and ultimately own the completed building.
Architects/Designers: Professionals who design the building, taking into account the client's
requirements, budget, and legal regulations. They create the architectural plans and specifications.
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Engineers: Depending on the project, various engineers may be involved, such as structural engineers,
civil engineers, mechanical engineers, and electrical engineers. They design and ensure the integrity of
the structural and mechanical systems.
General Contractor: The main contractor responsible for the overall construction of the project. They
manage subcontractors, coordinate construction activities, and ensure that the project is completed on
time and within budget.
Subcontractors: Specialized contractors hired by the general contractor to perform specific tasks, such
as electrical work, plumbing, HVAC installation, and more.
Financial Institutions: Banks or other financial institutions that provide funding for the project through
loans or other financial arrangements.
Regulatory Authorities: Government bodies responsible for reviewing and approving plans, permits,
and ensuring that the construction project complies with building codes and regulations.
6. State the functional requirement of a building
Answer
Space Allocation: Designating areas for different functions.
Accessibility: Ensuring the building is accessible to all.
Safety and Security: Implementing measures for occupant safety.
Structural Integrity: Ensuring stability and durability.
Environmental Controls: Specifying HVAC, lighting, and other systems.
Utilities: Providing necessary water, electrical, and drainage services.
Compliance: Adhering to local codes and standards.
Flexibility and Adaptability: Allowing for potential changes in use.
7.Classify the building according to the height
Answer
Low-Rise Buildings:
• Typically up to 3 stories, but in some classifications, can extend to 4 stories.
• Commonly residential or small commercial structures.
Mid-Rise Buildings:
• Generally between 4 to 12 stories.
• Often a mix of residential and commercial properties.
High-Rise Buildings:
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• Usually considered buildings with more than 12 to 15 stories.
• Common in urban areas and may include residential, commercial, or mixed-use developments.
Skyscrapers:
• An extreme subset of high-rise buildings, often exceeding 40 or 50 stories.
• Iconic structures in major cities, including office buildings, hotels, or residential towers.
8.Name 04 load bearing elements (structural) in a building
Answer
Columns: Vertical members supporting loads and transferring them to the foundation.
Beams: Horizontal or inclined members distributing loads from the structure to the columns.
Walls: Vertical elements, both interior and exterior, providing support and stability.
Foundation: The structural base supporting the entire weight of the building and transferring it to the
soil.
9.Describe with a sketch a suitable type of foundation for a made up ground
Answer
Shallow Spread Foundation (Strip Foundation)
Description:
In made-up ground, which may consist of compacted fill or engineered fill, a shallow spread foundation
is often suitable.
Advantages:
• Well-suited for uniform and stable made-up ground.
• Relatively cost-effective and straightforward to construct.
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10.State 03 differences between load bearing walls & non load bearing walls
Answer
1.Structural Function
Load-Bearing Walls:
• Load-bearing walls are an integral part of a building's structural system and are designed to
support vertical loads, including the weight of the floors and roof above them.
• Removing or altering load-bearing walls without proper reinforcement can compromise the
structural integrity of the building.
Non-Load-Bearing Walls:
• Non-load-bearing walls are not designed to carry vertical loads from the structure above. They
primarily serve as partitions, dividing spaces within the building.
• These walls are not critical to the building's overall stability, and their removal typically does
not have a significant impact on the structure.
2.Construction Materials and Thickness
Load-Bearing Walls:
• Load-bearing walls are generally constructed with materials capable of supporting substantial
vertical loads, such as concrete, masonry (brick or block), or structural steel.
• These walls are typically thicker and more robust to handle the structural demands placed on
them.
Non-Load-Bearing Walls:
• Non-load-bearing walls are often constructed with lighter materials, such as gypsum board
(drywall), wood framing, or metal studs.
• They are thinner compared to load-bearing walls since they do not bear the vertical loads of the
structure.
3.Flexibility in Interior Layout:
Load-Bearing Walls:
• Load-bearing walls play a crucial role in determining the layout and configuration of a building's
interior spaces.
• Changes to the placement or removal of load-bearing walls may require careful consideration
and structural analysis to ensure the building's stability.
Non-Load-Bearing Walls:
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• Non-load-bearing walls offer greater flexibility in interior design and can be easily moved or
removed to modify the layout of a space.
• Changes to non-load-bearing walls typically have less impact on the overall structure and can be
more easily accommodated during renovations
11.Briefly explain the types of brick bonds
Answer
Stretcher Bond:
• Stretcher bond is the simplest and most commonly used brick bond.
• Bricks are laid lengthwise with their long faces parallel to the face of the wall.
• Each row consists entirely of stretchers (long faces), creating a uniform and straightforward
pattern.
Header Bond:
• Header bond involves placing bricks with their short ends (headers) facing outward.
• Headers alternate with each row, creating a visually distinctive pattern.
• While not as strong as other bonds, header bond is often used for decorative purposes.
Flemish Bond:
• Flemish bond is an alternating pattern of headers and stretchers in each course.
• Each row starts and ends with a header, creating a more complex and aesthetically pleasing
appearance.
• Flemish bond is both visually appealing and structurally sound.
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English Bond:
• English bond alternates courses of headers and stretchers, but each course consists entirely of
one type.
• The alternating courses provide both strength and a pleasing appearance.
• It comes in two variations: single-course and double-course.
12..What is form work & state its functional requirements
Answer
Formwork, also known as shuttering or molds, is a temporary structure used in construction to support
and shape concrete or other materials while they set or cure. Formwork is a crucial element in concrete
construction, allowing the creation of various structural elements such as slabs, walls, beams, and
columns.
Functional requirements of formwork:
Support and Containment:
The formwork must provide adequate support to hold the weight of fresh concrete and contain it in the
desired shape until it hardens.
Shape and Dimensions:
The formwork must be designed to produce the required shape, dimensions, and surface finish of the
concrete element being cast.
Strength and Stability:
Formwork should possess sufficient strength and stability to withstand the pressure exerted by fresh
concrete and the dynamic loads during the pouring process.
Reusability:
In many construction projects, it is desirable for formwork to be reusable to minimize costs. Therefore,
formwork materials and construction should allow for easy removal and reuse.
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Durability:
Formwork should be durable enough to withstand multiple uses and exposure to various environmental
conditions.
Easy Removal: Once the concrete has set, the formwork should be easy to remove without damaging
the concrete surface.
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