Overview of structural parts of building

A building is consists of many structural components. Generally, structural components are divided into two categories-

i) Sub structure and

ii) Super structure

Sub structure:

The structure below ground level is called sub structure. Sub structurecan also be divided into two parts- a) Foundation and b) Plinth

Foundation:

The most lower part of the building. The main function of the foundation is to transfer load to sub soil. It is the most important part of structure. Most of the failure of a structure may happen due to foundation failure. Foundation should be strong enough to meet the following requirements-

It should be strong enough to distribute the load to sub soil.

It is capable to support structure.

Read More: Types of Foundation

Plinth:

The part between surrounding ground level and ground floor of the building is called plinth. The purposes of the plinth are-

• Transfer the incoming load from super structure to the foundation.

• Provide damp proof to the building

• Support the back filling as a retaining wall.

• Plinth also increases the esthetical look of the building.

Keep in mind that, sometimes, plinth isn’t considered as sub structure and count it as an individual part of a structure.

Super structure:

The part above plinth level is called super structure. Super structurecontains many other structural components. Such as-

Wall

Floor/Slab

Lintel and sunshade

Step and stair

Roof

Wall: Wall is used to separate the usable area of floor for different purpose. Such as bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, living etc. Other prime purpose of wall is to provide privacy and security.

Floor: The main purpose of floor is to provide better living space and support of occupants, furniture and other equipment of a building. The purpose of making different floor in different level of a building is to create more accommodation within limited space. Floor should be strong, durable, damp prove and heat protected.

Lintel and Sunshade: Lintel is provided for the purpose of supporting wall above door or window opening. Sunshade is generally combined with lintel above window opening to protect rain and sun.

Read More: Types of RCC Lintel

Step and Stair: Stair is made for easy communication among various floors of a building. Stair consists of steps. steps height should be comfortable enough for vertical movement.

Roof: The top most part of a building is the roof. Roof is build for the purpose of enclosing and protect the living area/floor area from weather effect. Roof should be stable, durable and weather resistant.

There are also others structural parts of a building. Such as water tank, septic tank and parapet etc. Septic tank and under ground water tank is completely separate structural part and not included in building structure. But, parapet and overhead water tank are parts of building structure.