Basic knowledge of the architecture and construction industry! Explanation of 4 types of building structures
This time, we will focus on building structure, which is basic knowledge in the architecture and construction industry. We have summarized the advantages and disadvantages of wooden construction (W construction), steel construction (S construction), reinforced concrete construction (RC construction), and steel reinforced concrete construction (SRC construction) in an easy-to-understand manner, so please read until the end.
Wooden construction (W construction) is now attracting attention once again.
Wooden construction is common in small buildings such as private residences. It is sometimes written as "W-zukuri", which is the initial of "Wood". Because wood is a renewable resource, it has attracted attention in SDGs initiatives, and in recent years, large-scale buildings such as hotels and offices have been built using locally produced wood.
Advantages of wooden construction
- Construction costs can be reduced (materials are cheap)
- Excellent moisture absorption
Disadvantages of wooden construction
- Termite countermeasures are required
- Quality is easily influenced by the skill of the craftsman
Steel frame construction (S construction) widely used from private residences to large-scale construction
Steel structures are used not only for private residences and condominiums, but also for large-scale buildings such as warehouses and gymnasiums. "S" is the initial letter of "Steel". Depending on the thickness of the steel material, there are two types: "light steel structure" and "heavy steel structure."
Naturally, heavy steel structures are stronger. However, since lightweight steel structures are cheaper, they are often used for smaller buildings.
Advantages of steel construction
- Quality is easy to stabilize and construction period is short (in the case of prefabricated construction method)
- Superior earthquake resistance than wooden construction
- Costs are lower than reinforced concrete construction and steel reinforced concrete construction.
Disadvantages of steel construction
- Poor soundproofing
- low fire resistance
Reinforced concrete construction (RC construction) with excellent durability and lower cost than SRC construction
"RC = Reinforced Concrete" literally means reinforced concrete. As the name suggests, the use of reinforcing steel and concrete compensate for each other's weaknesses. It also has excellent soundproofing properties, and condominiums around 10 stories are often made of reinforced concrete.
Advantages of reinforced concrete construction
- Excellent durability and soundproofing properties
- Cost is lower than SRC construction
Disadvantages of reinforced concrete construction
- Highly airtight and prone to mold growth
- As the building becomes heavier, it may be necessary to improve the ground.
Steel-framed reinforced concrete construction (SRC construction) combines the advantages of S construction and RC construction
Reinforced steel concrete construction is extremely durable and is used for high-rise buildings and condominiums because it combines the advantages of both steel frame construction and reinforced concrete construction. It is resistant to earthquakes and fires, has better soundproofing properties than RC construction, and is also suitable for creating large spaces due to its high strength.
Advantages of steel reinforced concrete construction
- Combines the advantages of S construction and RC construction
- Best in earthquake resistance, fire resistance, and soundproofing properties
Disadvantages of steel reinforced concrete construction
- Construction period will be longer as steel frame and reinforcing steel work is required.
- High cost due to the use of steel frames and reinforcing bars
When you look back at it, you can clearly see that every structure has its advantages and disadvantages, and it is important to choose a structure that suits the purpose of the building.
These terms are necessary for basic knowledge of architecture and construction, but they also often come up when building a house or looking for a rental apartment. This word is not familiar to the general public, so if you know someone in your life who is thinking about moving, please talk to them about it.
*The published photo is an image.
*All article contents are based on cases in Japan.