ASSIGNMENT 1

Various Elements of Building

Faria Sheikh

Studio A

PIADS, Nagpur
Roof

A roof is an important part of all buildings. The roof is the

uppermost part of the building. It is an enclosing element at
the top. It can be sloped, flat, dome shape, or curved. A roof is
a layer that covers the structure from the top and it also
prevents the building from climatic conditions.

Floors

The floor is a layer provided in the building to prevent the

entering of dampness from the ground to the building
components. It can be made of tiles, concrete, granites, etc. It
is raised above the surrounding level because of rainwater,
etc.

Stairs

Stairs are a structure designed to bridge a large vertical

distance by dividing it into smaller vertical distances, called
steps. Steps are described as the element of the building
which allows the foot to be put on to help easy and convenient
ascent and descent usually for low heights such as
surrounding ground surface to the top.
Stairs may be straight, round, etc.
Wall

Walls are vertical elements that support the roof. It can be

made from stones, bricks, concrete blocks, etc. Walls provide
an enclosure and protect against wind, sunshine, rain, etc.

Lintel

Lintels are constructed above the wall openings like doors,

windows, etc. These structures support the weight of the wall
coming over the opening. Normally, lintels are constructed by
reinforced cement concrete. In residential buildings, lintels can
be either constructed from bricks.

Chajja

Chajja is a device that helps to cut direct sunlight, acts as a

shading device, it regulates water flow. This is a structure that
is constructed above the window projected outside from the
window face. The main function of the weather shed is to
restrict the direct entry of rainwater and sunlight. Chajjas are
constructed from RCC. Also called sun control or weather
control device. It is variably a cantilever element.
Doorway
The opening made at the wall to permit entrance & exit
for people/anything required for activity. It also acts as a
link between other rooms.

Railing

Railings are used on stairs, balconies, galleries, decks,

ramps, walkways, and so on as a means of providing
separation, support, and safety. It assists the
ascend/descend or provides support to humans. It acts
as a safety. Railings can be made from a very wide
range of materials: Wrought or cast iron.

Columns
Columns are vertical members constructed above the
ground level. Structural columns take the load coming
from the slab above and transfer it safely to the
foundation.
Balcony

A horizontal platform in form of the cantilever with an outside

extension projecting from a wall of the building & surrounded
by a railing is called a balcony. The balcony is to enjoy the
view outside.

Window

An opening especially in the wall of a building for the entrance

of light and air that is usually closed by casements or sashes
containing transparent material (such as glass) and capable of
being opened and shut.