Building construction: Identifying basic components

by Bill and Aby Brooks, REALTORS® 11/19/2023

What are the structural components of a building

Building construction is at a high as the economy increases and more folks need resources such as homes, stores and other conveniences.

Knowing the basics of a building structure is a great way to appreciate some of the technologies we use in our everyday lives and have a more profound understanding of structural fundamentals keeping us safe.

What are the main components of a building?

Even though many of the structures we use on a daily basis such as grocery stores, shopping centers, and other buildings are simplistic at first glance, there are many components making these designs safe and functional for everyday use. The main basic components of a building include but are not limited to:

Roof
Beams
Columns
Parapet
Lintels
Damp proof course (DPC)
Stairs
Walls
Floor
Plinth
Foundation
Plinth beam

How are structural members classified?

Structural members are components of a building used to strengthen and stabilize for optimal safety. These particular building components include:

Beams
Frames
Columns
Tension structures
Etc.

What is the function of structural members?

Structural members of a building include all the systems that act as the “bones” and help to strengthen a structure. For example, slabs are used to create flat surfaces used to carry the load of other structures, such as roof slab or flooring and may be reinforced with concrete beams or walls.

Footing is another vital component which acts as a tool to transmit the weight and loads from building columns to the soil.

Everything from the ground floor to the top of the roof serves a vital function, and with the aforementioned basics, you get a better picture of the components making up your home.

About the Author

Bill and Aby Brooks, REALTORS®

Aby’s understanding of excellent customer service stems from her extensive professional background. Prior to earning her real estate license in 2005, along with her college degree that focuses on business and engineering, Aby was the head of purchasing, inventory and quality assurance for an OEM medical and aerospace manufacturing company. Known by her clients and fellow realtors for her tenacity, honesty, integrity, and attention to detail, as a full-time realtor, she is also appreciated for her quick response to her client’s needs. Aby has been an avid horse rider and owner since the age of eight, with her husband Billas a local firefighter/EMT they are very active within the community. Bill served as a US Army Airborne Ranger in 75th Ranger Regiment, he is a combat-wounded veteran who was awarded a Purple Heart. Bill's background as facility Manager for an International metals company and as a firefighter/EMT gives him the experience, attention to detail and the desire to go above and beyond to serve his customers. The Brooks' serve on the board of a local non-profit (501c3) that gives back to the veterans, first responders and their families. The Brooks family resides on their small ranch in Manatee County. Aby& Bill excel in all types of real estate and their passion is helping people. “We genuinely like people, growing up in Sarasota and Manatee counties and now raising our own family here, it is an absolute pleasure to share our growing area with newcomers and reminisce with longtime residents. Our area has so much to offer and it is our business to help folks buy and sell their own piece of paradise.”