Topic 8 - Construction Methods and Operations (Part I)
Topic 8 - Construction Methods and Operations (Part I)
METHODS AND
OPERATION
Construction in Civil Engineering
Construction is a process that consists of the building or assembling of
infrastructure. Far from being a single activity, large scale construction is
a feat of multitasking. Normally, the job is managed by the project
manager and supervised by the construction manager, design engineer,
construction engineer or project architect.
Construction in Civil Engineering
For the successful execution of a project, effective planning is essential.
Those involved with the design and execution of the infrastructure in
question must consider the environmental impact of the job, the
successful scheduling, budgeting, site safety, availability of materials,
logistics, inconvenience to the public caused by construction delays,
preparing tender documents.
Common Sectors of Construction Industry
1. Building Construction
2. Infrastructure
3. Industrial Construction
1. Building Construction
Building construction is the process of constructing buildings. This is
more specific than the general term “construction.” The result of
building construction is always a building or an addition to a building.
This may be in a residential or non-residential setting.
• Residential
• Non-Residential (Commercial/Institutional)
Residential Buildings
Residential projects involve the
construction of houses,
apartment buildings, and even
larger multistory high rise
buildings.
Commercial Buildings
Commercial projects suitable for
use by any retail or wholesale
concern, distributorship, or
agency.
Institutional Buildings
Institutional projects simply
refers to any structure that
fulfills a role related to
healthcare, education,
recreation, or public works
2. Infrastructure
Infrastructure projects focus on the development and maintenance of
services, facilities, and systems. These can be funded by private
companies, publicly, or combined as a public-private partnership (a
collaboration of government entities and private sector companies).
2. Infrastructure
3. Industrial Construction
This sector of the industry is highly specialized and requires firm with
vast resources and significant construction and engineering expertise.
The number of contractors qualified to actually work with in the
industrial sector is quite limited. The project types included in this
category are defined primarily by the production activities that occur
within the power. Manufacturing plants, oil refineries, electrical genera
ting facilities, steel mills, chemical processing plants as well as pipelines
are all examples of industrial construction projects.
Different Construction Methods
The methods of construction have always been influenced by prevailing
technology, techniques, skills, and even the political and economic
climate. This is why eras are characterized by certain construction trends
as shown by the history of buildings. Before the discovery of modern
materials like stone and clay, buildings were even made of leaves and
branches.
There are different factors as to why you should choose certain
construction methods, namely:
size of the building
location of the construction
purpose of the building
budget for the project
environmental factors
Concrete Construction Method
Concrete has become popular worldwide,
especially in commercial buildings. This
method is commonly used in civil
engineering because of its strength and
ability to support weight.
Concrete is a combination of cement and
water, which is mixed with either stone or
sand. It becomes more sturdy when
reinforced by rebars.
Masonry Construction Method
This method makes use of various materials
such as concrete blocks, stones, and bricks
that are bound together.
Since it is non-combustible and high-
resistant, this method is popularly used to
build fireplaces and walkways. Building
owners who want a rustic look opt for
masonry.
Steel Framing Construction Method
Steel framing, whether structural steel or
cold-formed, has been used by builders since
the 19th century. Most builders prefer to use
steel for commercial buildings because of
their strength and thickness.
Despite its prohibitive costs, it has also
become a favorite method for residential
projects.
Wood Framing Construction Method
One of the most popular and widely used
methods centuries ago and even up to now
is wood framing. Builders opt for this
method not only for residential structures,
but even for industrial and commercial
structures.
Aesthetics aside, wooden frames are
environment-friendly since they absorb
carbon.
Precast Flat Panel System
A precast flat panel (PFP) system is a
construction technique that provides
an alternative to traditional site-
based construction. Its components
are mass produced off-site, making
them practical for recurring
requirements that also demand speed
of manufacturing and consistency of
product.
Hybrid Construction Method
The hybrid method combines different
techniques and materials, and often makes
use of prefabricated materials for building.
Builders prefer this method because of the
uniqueness of the output. This method is
also more flexible, economical, and more
efficient time-wise.