Introduction to site investigation classification of rocks and soil types and relationship to bearing capacities.
Site appraisal, preparation and temporary services.
Foundation types, solum treatment, and underbuilding construction.
Load bearing and non-load bearing masonry, timber framed walls and construction.
Formation of openings, fireplaces, flues and chimneys.
Wall and floor finishes.
Floor construction.
Timber flat and pitched roofs and roof coverings.
Access provision from lower to upper levels.
Window and door openings and construction.
Electrical supply and metering installations, distribution, circuits for power and lighting.
Mains, cold and hot water supply systems.
Above and below ground drainage for rainwater and foul systems.
Heating: low pressure hot water, open and closed systems.
Ventilation: simple extract systems.
Interaction between the building fabric and services.
Functional and legislative requirements of low rise buildings and related services.
Introduction to specification writing and utilisation of the National Building Specification (NBS) and Co-ordinated Project Information (CPI).
Construction and services drawings interpretation and presentation both manual and computer generated .
On successful completion of this module, the student should be able to:
1. Identify the functional requirements of the external envelope, internal components and services elements of a low rise building. (A1 all, B3)
2. Outline the relationship between subsoil conditions and foundation construction (A1, B1:BS, BT, CN, QS, FR, PM)
3. Describe forms of wall, floor and roof construction, finishes and service elements (A1, C2, C3)
4. Apply construction principles and legislation to produce basic design concepts and construction details (B1, B6)
5. Demonstrate an understanding of the mechanical and electrical services required for low rise buildings (A1, C2, C3)
6. Compare alternative construction and services proposals (A1, B1, B2, B3, C2, C3)
7. Demonstrate understanding of the interaction between the building fabric and services (A1, B1, B2, B3, C2, C3)
8. Interpret construction and services drawings (B2, B4, C2, C3)
Lectures provide the basic theoretical concepts of building construction and services.
They will be complemented by structured tutorials where videos and digital photographs will be used to show examples of site practice.
Tutorials taking place involving sketching classes for the preparation of construction specifications and details.
Students will have access to drawing studios, CAD laboratory and library facilities at GCU. This includes digital information such as Construction Information Service Online http://www.info4education.com/, British Standards Online http://bsonline.techindex.co.uk.
Web based material including manufacturers trade literature is also available.
Development of problem-solving and application of knowledge to same (D1, D2, D3, D10)
Effective communication: written, graphical and oral (D14)
Effective use of Information Technology (D13)
Effective time management (D6)
Independent working (D4, D5, D7, D8, D9)
Common across all programmes