Foundation: Walls and Floors – JSS3 Basic Technology Lesson Note (Second Term)

FOUNDATION

A foundation can be defined as the part of a building that is in direct contact with the ground and carries the weight of the building. It may be in the form of stones and concrete.

Types of Foundation

There are five major types of foundations namely:

1. Strip Foundation:

This is the type of foundation that is most suitable for small structures. It is a continuous deposit of concrete in the foundation trench on which the walls of the building are constructed.

2. Pad Foundation

It is a reinforced concrete base on which reinforced concrete columns are constructed. The size of the pad of the foundation could be reduced by providing steel reinforcements towards the bottom of the foundation running in both directions.

3. Raft Foundation   

It is used where the load-bearing capacity of the soil is weak. It is normally used in construction buildings on waterlogged land.

4. Pile Foundation

   Piles are used in the construction of massive structures such as bridges.

5. Stepped Foundation

This is a strip foundation constructed on sloped ground. Furthermore, where the nature of the soil in a building site is not the same, the stepped foundation will be incorporated.

Functions of Foundations

1. Foundations receive and support the weight of walls, roofs, property, and inhabitants in the building.
2. Foundations are constructed to withstand the force of a strong wind.

Walls and floors

Walls

Walls are structural elements that enclose, divide, or support buildings. There are various types of walls, including:

1. Block Wall: A wall constructed using concrete blocks, typically made of cement, aggregate, and other additives. These blocks interlock or are bound together with mortar to form a sturdy structure.
2. Brick Wall: Built with bricks, which are typically clay or concrete units. Bricks are arranged and bonded using mortar to create a wall. Brick walls are known for their durability and aesthetic appeal.
3. Parapet Wall: An extension of a wall at the edge of a roof, balcony, bridge, or terrace. It provides a barrier and can serve decorative or protective purposes.
4. Veneer Wall: A non-structural outer layer added to an existing wall, often for aesthetic reasons. Veneer walls can be made from various materials like stone, brick, or wood and are applied to the exterior of the primary wall.
5. Retaining Wall: Designed to resist the lateral pressure of soil when there is a desired change in ground elevation. These walls prevent soil erosion and are commonly used in landscaping or civil engineering projects.
6. Timber Wall: A wall constructed using timber (wood) as the primary material. Timber walls can be load-bearing or non-load-bearing, depending on their structural purpose.

Walling materials vary based on construction needs:

1. Brick: Durable and commonly used for load-bearing walls.
2. Concrete: Versatile, strong, and suitable for various wall types.
3. Wood: Often used for framed structures and non-load-bearing walls.
4. Drywall: Lightweight and commonly used for interior partitions.
5. Stone: Offers aesthetic appeal and durability for both load-bearing and decorative walls.
6. Glass: Used for transparent or decorative walls in modern architecture.

FLOORS

This is the horizontal surface in a building or room on which people walk. It serves as the base for furniture and other elements within a space.

Types of Floors

1. Hardwood Floors: Made from solid wood and known for its durability and timeless appearance.
2. Laminate Floors: Composed of multiple layers, including a photographic layer that mimics wood or other materials. It is cost-effective and easy to maintain.
3. Tile Floors: These can be ceramic, porcelain, or natural stone tiles. They are durable, water-resistant, and come in various designs.
4. Vinyl Floors: Made of synthetic materials and known for their resilience, affordability, and versatility in design.
5. Carpet Floors: Soft and comfortable, made of various fibers. Carpets provide insulation and a cozy feel but require regular cleaning.

Flooring Materials and Uses

1. Wood: Elegant and durable, suitable for living rooms, bedrooms, and dining areas.
2. Laminate: Cost-effective and versatile, used in living rooms, kitchens, and bedrooms.
3. Ceramic Tile: Waterproof and durable, commonly used in bathrooms and kitchens.
4. Porcelain Tile: Similar to ceramic but denser, suitable for high-traffic areas.
5. Natural Stone: Luxurious and durable, used in various areas, including kitchens and entryways.
6. Vinyl: Affordable and resilient, suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas.
7. Carpet: Soft and warm, ideal for bedrooms and living rooms where comfort is a priority.

EVALUATION: 1. What do you understand by the term, Wall?

1. Mention and discuss 5 types of walls that you know.
2. Identify 5 flooring materials you know and state their uses.
3. Mention 5 types of floors and explain them.

CLASSWORK: As in evaluation

CONCLUSION: The teacher commends the students positively