In the construction industry, in-depth understanding of foundation structures, roof structures and wall structures is essential to ensure a building's stability and long-term sustainability. As an expert in construction, Konstruktionshjälpen's job is to provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you understand these key parts of the construction process.
Basic constructions – the basis for success
The foundation is the very frame of any building and acts as the load-bearing element that distributes the building's load to the ground. The choice of foundation construction, regardless of whether it is a slab on the ground, crawl space or plinth foundation, must be adapted to the conditions of the ground, the building's load requirements and ground conditions. For proper planning, construction drawings are essential, as they specify exact dimensions and material choices to resist settlement and other potential problems that could affect the foundation. Below is an overview of the pros and cons of the three common foundation types: plinth foundation, slab on ground and creep foundation.
Terminal base
Advantages:
Cost-effective : Plinth foundations are often cheaper to install than other foundation types, especially in areas with uneven terrain where large earthworks can be avoided.
Good for hilly terrain : Since the terminals can be placed at different levels, this foundation type is suitable for hilly or sloping terrain.
Less Earthwork : Requires less extensive earthwork as the foundation does not need to be excavated to create a flat surface.
Natural ventilation : The open construction under the house can facilitate ventilation and reduce the risk of moisture problems in the floor.
Disadvantages:
Lower energy efficiency : Since there is air under the building, this foundation can lead to higher energy consumption due to poorer insulation.
Risk of moisture problems : If the soil under the building is not properly drained, moisture can penetrate under the house, which can lead to problems with rot and mold.
Less stable than slab on ground : In areas with weak or unstable ground, plinth foundations may be less stable and risk settling over time.
Requires more maintenance : The plinth foundation may need to be maintained and adjusted over time, especially if soil conditions change or subsidence occurs.
Can affect building height: Using plinths means that the foundation ends up at a higher level compared to other foundation constructions.
Flat on ground
Advantages:
High stability : Slab on ground provides a very stable foundation and is less sensitive to settlement and ground movements than both plinth foundation and crawling foundation.
Good insulation : This foundation type is well suited to achieving good energy performance because the insulation can be integrated directly into the slab and under the foundation.
Simple construction method : A slab on the ground is easy to build and can be done quickly if the ground conditions are favorable.
Resistant to moisture : With proper drainage and insulation, the slab protects the building well against soil moisture and reduces the risk of moisture problems.
Disadvantages:
More expensive foundation work : The ground work to prepare and pour a slab on land can be costly, especially if the land needs to be excavated and regraded.
Worse on sloping terrain : This foundation type is not suitable for sloping or uneven terrain as it requires extensive earthworks.
Difficult to repair : If problems arise under the slab, such as damage to pipes or insulation, repairs can be both complicated and expensive because the slab must be broken up.
Limited flexibility : Once the foundation is poured, it is difficult to make changes or additions, such as adding a basement or space under the house.
Crawl space
Advantages:
Good insulation against soil moisture : Creeping foundation provides a space between the building and the ground that reduces the risk of soil moisture affecting the construction of the house.
Easy access to installations : The space under the house makes it easy to access water pipes, drains and other installations for maintenance or repair.
Flexible for different types of terrain : Crawling ground can be adapted to both flat and slightly hilly plots, making it a flexible option for many construction sites.
Possibility of correcting problems : If problems such as moisture or settling occur, it is easier to correct than for a slab on the ground.
Disadvantages:
Risk of moisture and mold : Crawl spaces are particularly prone to moisture problems, and if the ventilation is not sufficient, it can lead to mold, rot and a poor indoor environment.
Requires maintenance : To avoid moisture problems, the crawl space must be regularly ventilated and checked, which may require more maintenance compared to flat on ground.
Energy loss : Crawl space can mean higher heat losses, making it less energy efficient if it is not properly insulated.
Roof structures – more than just protection
The roof construction is not only a protection against weather and wind, but a structure that must be carefully dimensioned to carry both its own weight, snow and wind loads. Gable roofs, pulpit roofs and hipped roofs are common types of roof design. Different choices of roof materials such as concrete tiles, sheet metal, waterproofing layer or brick.
Wall constructions – support and insulation in harmony
The walls of a building act as load-bearing elements and must be carefully dimensioned to handle the load from the roof and joists. But walls also have an insulating function, both thermally and acoustically. Wooden walls, lightweight concrete walls and prefabricated elements are some examples of different wall constructions used depending on the building's specifications and climatic conditions. This is where detailed construction drawings become important to ensure that the walls both meet load-bearing capacity requirements and create an energy-efficient and comfortable indoor environment.
Wooden wall
Description: Wooden walls are a common wall type in Sweden and other Nordic countries. They usually consist of standing wooden studs 45x175 or 45x195 center distance 600 mm which are filled with insulation between the studs and covered on both sides with an installation layer and plaster, on the other side wind protection and facade cladding is laid.
Advantages:
Easy and fast construction: Wooden walls are easy to build and adapt, which makes them quick to erect, especially in prefabricated modules.
Good insulating ability: Wood has naturally good insulating properties and together with the addition of insulating material you get good thermal insulation.
Flexibility: Wooden walls are easy to adapt and change during renovations or extensions. They can also be built in different thicknesses depending on insulation requirements.
Sustainability and environmental friendliness: Wood is a renewable resource and has a low environmental impact if it comes from sustainable forestry.
Disadvantages:
Moisture and fire damage: Wood is sensitive to moisture and can rot if it is not well protected or ventilated. In addition, wood is combustible, which means that it requires fire protection measures.
Maintenance: Wooden walls may need regular maintenance, especially if they are exposed to the elements.
Lower sound insulation: Wooden walls have poorer sound insulation capabilities compared to some other wall types such as concrete walls.
Lightweight concrete wall (Aerated concrete)
Description: Lightweight concrete, also called aerated concrete, is a porous building material that is light in weight but strong and insulating. It is made by adding air or gas to the concrete during the manufacturing process, which creates small air bubbles in the material.
Advantages:
Good insulating ability: Lightweight concrete has high thermal insulation, which means that you can achieve good energy efficiency without adding extra insulating material.
Fire safety: Lightweight concrete is non-combustible and acts as a good fire barrier, which improves the fire safety of the building.
Easy to process: Lightweight concrete is easier to cut and shape compared to regular concrete, which makes it a flexible material for construction.
Moisture resistant: The material has good properties against moisture and mold formation, which makes it suitable for more humid environments.
Disadvantages:
Lower load-bearing capacity: Compared to other types of concrete, lightweight concrete has a lower compressive strength, which limits its use in load-bearing walls for taller buildings.
Cracking: Lightweight concrete is relatively brittle and may be prone to cracking due to movement in the building or frost damage.
Sandwich concrete wall
Description: A sandwich concrete wall consists of two layers of concrete with an intermediate layer of insulation (usually EPS or mineral wool). These walls are often used in prefabricated buildings to combine the strength of concrete with insulating capabilities.
Advantages:
High load-bearing capacity: Sandwich concrete walls have excellent strength and durability, making them suitable for high-rise buildings and other structures that require load-bearing walls.
Good insulation: The built-in insulation gives the wall good thermal and sound insulation, making it energy efficient and suitable for colder climates.
Fire safety: Since the outer layers are made of concrete, this type of wall has very good fire resistance properties.
Long durability: Concrete is a very durable material and has a long life with minimal maintenance.
Disadvantages:
High cost: Precast concrete sandwich walls can be expensive to produce and transport due to their weight and complexity.
Difficult to adapt and change: As the walls are prefabricated, they are difficult to adjust on site, which reduces flexibility in case of any changes in the construction process.
Heavy construction: Concrete is a heavy material, which can lead to higher foundation costs and greater transport and installation requirements.
Why careful construction is essential
Adhering to precise construction methods is not only a building code requirement, but also has long-term financial benefits. A properly dimensioned and executed foundation prevents settlement damage, while a well-constructed roof minimizes the risk of moisture and water damage. The correct construction of the walls ensures that the building is not only energy efficient but also aesthetically pleasing.
Choice of materials – function and aesthetics in balance
The choice of material for the foundation, roof and walls has a major impact on both the building's function and appearance. For the foundation, concrete is the most used material, thanks to its strength and malleability. Roofing materials can vary between classic brick, concrete tiles or modern tin roofs depending on the aesthetic. Wall structures can be built with anything from brick and wood to plaster, with each material having its own unique properties and advantages.
Construction drawings - your guide through the construction process
Drawings are the primary tool that architects, engineers and builders use to communicate and ensure that all parts of the building are constructed correctly. Floor plans, facade drawings and section drawings are some of the most important tools for understanding how the building is to be constructed and which technical requirements must be met. Through these drawings, all parties involved can ensure that the building complies with current building standards and at the same time meets aesthetic and functional goals.
In summary, correctly executed foundation, roof and wall constructions are crucial for a building to be both safe and durable. By following clear construction drawings and choosing the right materials, you can not only avoid costly repairs in the future, but also create a building that is functional, energy efficient and aesthetically pleasing.
