Purpose
ensures uniform loading over ground
eliminates capillary void for damp
enables fill to required level
clean dry and level working surface
Includes…
brick/tile, clinker, gravel, quarry
waste, shale
Must not include…
plaster, timber, thermal block
When heated thermally, most commonly by the Sun, all bricks expand fractionally, up to around 2mm. This effect across a whole building can cause significant effects and therefore expansion joints are placed every 6m or less in the construction. As well as cracking, a brick layer can also oversail the Damp Proof Course (DPC) put [...]
The key function of buildings is to protect us from the external environment, to keep the weather out and keep residents and contents dry and safe. Therefore, exposure to weather and weather events is important to consider as part of building and construction.
In the UK, the prevailing wind direction is from the South-West. Winds are [...]
Buildings are expected to have certain performance requirements, which can vary depending on the intended use of the building. Some example requirements are…
Weather exclusion
Durability
Appearance (iconic/beautiful)
Security
Dimensionally suitable
Fitness for purpose
Low cost/value for money
Ventilation
Thermal comfort
Sanitation
Over recent years, sustainability has also become a key requirement. Since the 1987 Bruntland report, the idea of sustained economic activity within the carrying [...]
