Light Weight Walls

Group 2
GROUP 2

● Prudence Neema- B11/0591/2020

● Ridhwan Abdirahman Sheikh- B11/0618/2020
● Omondi Charles- B11/0617/2020
● Mwambamba Junior- B11/0613/2020
● Collins Shamala- B11/0603/2020
● Phyllis Muthoni- B11s/12003/2020
Lightweight wall Materials

1. Gypsum Board
2. Lightweight concrete Blocks
3. Hollow Concrete Blocks
4. Light Steel Framing
5. Fibre Cement Boards
6. AAC Blocks
7. Foam Insulation Panels
8. Timber
GYPSUM BOARD(DRY WALL)
FEATURES OF AAC BLOCKS
 Thin Bed Mortar (AAC Block Adhesive) 3mm
10 mm
 TYPES OF FINISHES OF AAC BLOCKS
● sAAC blocks can be finished to resemble stucco.
● The plasters with polymer modifications are waterproof.
● They do, however, enable moisture vapour to allow for
breathing.
● Direct-applied veneers are usually lightweight, much
like manufactured stone.
● The face of a wall is mechanically attached to
traditional siding materials.
● If the siding material requires back ventilation, furring
strips must be utilised.
● Masonry veneers can be glued right to a wall's surface.
● As cavity walls, they can also be constructed.
 INSTALLATIONS
Electrical & Plumbing Installation in AAC

Electrical and Plumbing conduits within an AAC wall should be placed in the routed groove.

AAC Wall grooved for electrical conduits & boxes.

INSTALLATIONS
Load Installation
Light Loads (up to 15 Kgs)

Application: For light loads like electrical fittings, small mirrors, etc.

Solution: 75 mm (3”) wooden pegs should be used.

 INSTALLATIONS
Medium Loads (up to 50 Kgs)

Application: For Medium loads like large mirrors, wash basins, water heater, etc.

Solution: Sleeve anchors – 100 mm (4”) length of (8 mm, 10 mm,12 mm) Diameter based on load
should be used
INSTALLATIONS
Heavy Loads (up to 100 Kgs)

Application: For Heavy loads like Water closet, etc.

Solution: Rack Bolt (light or heavy) should be used, Drill a hole, insert the rack bold & pack it with
concrete. After 7 days, the fitting could be installed. If the block thickness is 100 mm, it is
recommended to build a ledge wall to support heavy loads.
ADVANTAGES OF AAC BLOCKS
Resistance towards Fire - The AAC block material is non-combustible and offers fire resistance of up to
six hours, depending on the block thickness, and up to 1,200 degrees Celsius.thus increased fire safety

Energy efficient along with good Thermal Insulation-Due to the material's microscopic air pockets and
the use of hydrogen to foam the concrete, it has exceptional heat insulation properties that allow for mild
winter and cool summer temperatures. As a result, it can drastically reduce your cooling expenditures by
roughly 25%. AAC blocks use less energy during production, which results in energy efficiency over their
whole lives.

Affordability and Sustainability- AAC blocks are produced with a minimum amount of waste using
natural, non-toxic raw materials. The waste of offcuts that are produced in some cases can be recycled or
used as aggregates. Because it is constructed of non-biodegradable materials, the building is stable and
enduring and won't decay or grow mould. AAC blocks help save labour expenses because they are
lightweight, energy-efficient, and simple to install.

They Are Pest-Resistant-AAC blocks are made of inorganic components, which aid in preventing pests
like termites and rats from entering the construction
ADVANTAGES OF AAC BLOCKS
High Compressive Strength-The AAC block's compressive strength ranges from 3 to 5 N/mm2. As a
result, it is superior and stronger than bricks with the same density.

Withstand Earthquakes-Because of AAC blocks' increased strength throughout the production process,
the finished building is durable. AAC brick-built structures may withstand greater seismic stresses than
conventional brick-built structures.

Better to Work with and Faster Construction-AAC blocks are 10 times larger and around 50% lighter
than regular bricks. AAC blocks are easier to lay and take less time to create since they have fewer joints
and consistent size, the lightweight blocks are simple to transport, which contributes to cost savings
overall.

Moisture Proof- The AAC blocks' inside macropores guarantee little water absorption. They offer
improved moisture protection as a result.

Sound Proof-AAC blocks provide a high level of sound suppression because of their lightweight and
porous nature. Because of this, AAC blocks are frequently used in the construction of studios, hotels,
hospitals, and other buildings.
DISADVANTAGES OF AAC BLOCKS
AAC Is not suitable as load-bearing structures, i.e., structures where beam & columns are not
used.

Non-structural shrinkage cracks may appear in AAC blocks after installation in rainy weather
or humid environments.

Has some brittle nature: requires more care than clay bricks to avoid breakage during handling
and transporting.
DISADVANTAGES OF AAC BLOCKS
Inability to use in Foundation
This is because

a. The horizontal load from fillings along the side of the block.

b. Potential water seepage from the soil around the wall.-To guard against ground moisture,and
against rainwater bouncing off the ground and splashing onto the wall, DPC is installed at a
minimum 150 mm height above the surrounding finished floor level.
 DISADVANTAGES OF AAC BLOCKS
AAC Wall Span

Similar to other masonry units like CMU or bricks, it’s not recommended to have long span
AAC block wall without RC or stiffeners.
DISADVANTAGES OF AAC BLOCKS
Avoid Heavy loads against 4” AAC Wall. Avoid heavy fittings like wall hung commode to 4
inch AAC wall. A ledge wall could be planned.

Elevator/Lift Guide rails As per regulation elevator guide rails are to be mounted on
Concrete or MS and hence avoid direct mounting on AAC blocks.
 INTRODUCTION
● Drywall made from calcium sulfate
dihydrate also known as gypsum board
or plasterboard, is a widely used
construction material that serves as a
lightweight alternative for interior walls
and ceilings.
● It is composed of a gypsum core
sandwiched between two layers of
paper.
● The lightweight nature of drywall
makes it popular for its ease of
handling, quick installation, and
versatility in creating smooth interior
surfaces.
Advantages of Drywall
● Lightweight: Drywall is significantly lighter than traditional plaster and lath
systems, simplifying handling and installation.
● Quick Installation: The installation process is faster compared to other wall
construction methods, leading to reduced labor costs.
● Versatility: Drywall is adaptable and can be used for various applications,
providing a smooth surface for different finishes.
● Fire-Resistant: Gypsum, the primary component, is inherently fire-resistant,
contributing to overall fire safety.
● Cost-Effective: Drywall is relatively inexpensive, contributing to cost-
effectiveness in construction.
Disadvantages of Drywall
● Vulnerability to Moisture: Standard drywall
is susceptible to moisture damage. Moisture-
resistant variants are available for areas
prone to wet conditions.
● Impact Resistance: While it offers some
resistance, drywall is not as impact-resistant
as some alternative materials.
● Limited Load-Bearing Capacity: Drywall
itself is not designed for heavy load-bearing
applications and may require additional
support for certain installations.
LIGHTWEIGHT CONCRETE BLOCKS
INTRODUCTION
Lightweight concrete blocks are concrete blocks that have a lower density and
weight than conventional concrete blocks.
They are made by using lightweight aggregates, such as expanded clay, shale,
slate, or perlite, that reduce the amount of cement and water in the mix 3:4:2.
Another type of lightweight concrete block is the cellular light weight concrete
block, which is produced by mixing cement and fly-ash slurry with pre-formed
foam.
Lightweight concrete blocks are easier to handle and less likely to cause structural
damage
Characteristics of Light-weight concrete walls
The main reason of using LWC for structural purposes is to reduce the self-weight of
concrete structures.

Reducing the dead load of the structure is very important in earthquake regions.

● The density of LWC is approximately 80 percent that of normal weight concrete.

● The density of structural LWC typically ranges between 1440 and 1840 kg/m3,
whereas these values vary between 2240 and 2400 kg/m3 for normal weight
concrete.
● Therefore, the most important advantage of using LWC is the possible decrease
in the construction costs and the reduction in weight of the structure.
Construction Process of Lightweight Concrete Walls
Preparing the Site:
The first step in concrete wall construction is to prepare the site. This includes
clearing the area of any debris, leveling the ground, and ensuring proper drainage.
The site should also be marked to indicate the location and dimensions of the wall.
Creating Formwork:
Formwork is the temporary structure used to hold the concrete in place until it
hardens and becomes a solid structure. The formwork for a concrete wall is
typically made of wood, metal, or plastic and should be strong enough to handle
the weight and pressure of the concrete. It should also be properly aligned and
leveled to ensure the wall is straight and uniform.
Advantages of Light-weight concrete walls

● High heat insulation - low

thermal conductivity
● Low Density
● Sound insulation
● Waterproof
● Fireproof
● Lightweight
● High strength.
● High speed construction
● Economical
Fibre Cement Boards
Introduction
Fiber cement boards are a popular building material used in construction for various applications, including
wall cladding and partition walls.

They are known for their durability, versatility, and lightweight properties.
Composition and manufacture

Fiber cement boards are a composite material made from a

combination of cement, cellulose fibers, sand, and other
additives.

● Mixing: The raw materials are thoroughly mixed in

precise proportions to achieve a homogenou`` blend.
● Forming: The mixture is then formed into sheets or
boards using a specific manufacturing process, which
may involve extrusion, Hatschek process, or other
techniques.
● Curing: The formed boards undergo a curing process
to allow the cement to harden and develop its
strength.
Installation

1. Preparation:
● Surface Inspection: Ensuring that the substrate (wall or
framing) is structurally sound, clean, and free from dust, dirt,
or any contaminants.
● Moisture Barrier: Depending on the application and local
climate, considering installing a moisture barrier or
waterproofing membrane to protect against water infiltration.

2. Layout and Planning:

● Measuring and Marking: Accurately measuring and
marking the layout for the placement of fiber cement
boards. Considering allowances for gaps and
expansion joints.
● Cutting: Planning for any necessary cuts in the boards
to fit around windows, doors, corners, and other
architectural features.
3. Installation:

● Direct Adhesion: Fiber cement boards can be directly adhered

to the substrate using a recommended construction adhesive.
Ensuring that the adhesive is suitable for both the substrate and
the boards is critical.
● Mechanical Fastening: Alternatively, the boards can be
mechanically fastened to the framing or substrate using
corrosion-resistant screws or nails.

4. Finishing:

● Edge Treatment: Finish exposed edges with suitable trim or

flashing to protect against water penetration and provide a neat
appearance.
● Painting: If a painted finish is desired, ensure that the boards are
clean and dry before applying a high-quality exterior-grade paint.
Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for painting.
The Cost of Fibre Cement Boards

The cost per square meter and the dimensions of fiber cement boards during installation can vary
based on several factors, including the brand, type, thickness, finish, and regional pricing
differences.

● Factors Affecting Cost:

○ Thickness: Thicker boards may cost more than thinner ones.
○ Finish: Textured or pre-painted finishes may be priced differently.
○ Brand: Established brands with a reputation for quality might have higher prices.
Dimensions
● Standard Sizes: Fiber cement boards are typically
available in standard sizes, with common
dimensions being 1200 mm x 2400 mm or 1220
mm x 2440 mm.
● Thickness: Common thicknesses range from 6
mm to 20 mm, with 8 mm and 12 mm being typical
for wall applications.
● Cutting to Fit: During installation, boards are often
cut to fit around doors, windows, and other
architectural features.
Advantages of Fibre Cement Boards
1. Durability:

● Weather Resistance: Fiber cement boards are resistant to moisture, making them suitable for
exterior applications. They do not swell, warp, or rot when exposed to rain or high humidity.
● Insect Resistance: They are not susceptible to insect damage, providing long-term durability.

2. Versatility:

● Interior and Exterior Use: Fiber cement boards are suitable for both interior and exterior
applications, offering flexibility in design and construction.
● Various Applications: Common uses include cladding, siding, soffits, fascias, interior
partitions, and more.
3. Low Maintenance:

● Resistance to Decay: Fiber cement boards are resistant to decay, mold, and mildew. This
reduces the need for frequent maintenance.
● Paint Adhesion: They hold paint well, extending the life of the finish and reducing the
frequency of repainting.

4. Aesthetic Options:

● Textured Finishes: Fiber cement boards are available in various textures and finishes,
allowing for a wide range of aesthetic options.
● Paintability: They can be painted in different colors to match architectural styles and
preferences.

5. Long Lifespan:

● Durable Material: With proper installation and maintenance, fiber cement boards can have a
long lifespan, contributing to the overall sustainability of a building.
Disadvantages of Fibre Cement Boards
1. Environmental Impact:

The production of cement, a key component in fiber cement, is energy-intensive and contributes to
carbon emissions. However, some manufacturers use sustainable practices and recycled content
to mitigate environmental impact.

2. Limited Load-Bearing Capacity:

Fiber cement boards are not designed to bear heavy loads, so they are not suitable for certain
structural applications.

3. Expansion and Contraction:

Like many building materials, fiber cement boards may undergo slight expansion and contraction
with changes in temperature and humidity.
4. Installation Challenges:

Specialized Tools: Cutting fiber cement boards may require specialized

tools and equipment, potentially increasing installation costs.

Dust Generation: Cutting or sanding fiber cement boards can produce

silica dust, which poses health risks if proper safety measures, such as
dust masks and ventilation, are not implemented.

5. Cost:

Fiber cement boards can have a higher upfront cost compared to some
other siding materials. However, this cost may be offset by their durability
and low maintenance over time.
Applicable use of fibre cement boards

Ceiling Applications:

Fiber cement boards can be used for suspended ceilings, contributing

to acoustic performance and providing a clean, finished appearance.

Soffits and Fascias: Eaves and Overhangs:

Fiber cement boards are used for soffits and fascias to protect the
eaves and overhangs of a building from weathering.
Interior uses:

Commercial Spaces partitions: Fiber cement boards are

employed for interior partition walls in commercial spaces,
providing a durable and fire-resistant barrier..

Exterior Cladding:
One of the most common applications is as exterior
cladding for residential and commercial buildings.
Provides a durable and weather-resistant surface that
can withstand exposure to sunlight, rain, and other
environmental elements.

Modular Construction:
Fiber cement boards can be incorporated into modular
construction for quick and efficient building processes.
FOAM INSULATION PANELS
INTRODUCTION.
These are rigid lightweight panels made from expanded polystyrene, extruded polystyrene or
polyisocyanurate that are used in thermal insulation of walls,roofs or floors in building.

CHARACTERISTICS

● Have insulative properties. They help regulate heat loss from buildings thus essential in

enhancing thermal comfort of the user.

● Are lightweight thus easy to install and have minimal effect on the structural integrity of
the building.
● Fire resistant.Some of the panels are manufactured with fire resisting properties .
● Have a rigid structure.
● Moisture resistance.Due to their closed-cell structure they exhibit better water resisting
characteristics compared to open-cell elements which make them best for use in moist
areas.
WORKING OF THE PANELS
Foam insulation panels minimize heat losses from the structure by impending heat transfer
through conduction.
The panels are fixed along exposed cavities on the walls thereby minimizing
heat losses from the interior spaces.
The insulation capacity of the panel is determined by the R-Value with a high R-value
indicating better thermal resistance than a lower R-value.
INSTALLATION
The panels are manufactured in standard sizes of 2400 by 1200 and a thickness ranging
between 25mm by 150mm.
When installing,the panels are cut in sizes that fit the existing cavity then taped or caulk
applied to ensure that its well sealed up and airtight.
ADVANTAGES

1. They are water resistant thus safe from mold growth.

2. They are cheap
3. Installation is easy.

DISADVANTAGES

1. Polyiso boards tend to lose insulation properties over time.

2. Expanded polystyrene have bubbles that may collect water causing damage.
3. The caulked joints may over time break resulting in air flow thus reducing the
effectiveness of the panel.
TIMBER
INTRODUCTION

Timber construction is a popular method for building structures due to its

versatility, accessibility, and sustainable nature.

It involves the use of wood, a renewable resource, to create various components

and systems that form the framework and envelope of a building.

From residential houses to large-scale commercial buildings, timber construction

has been widely used throughout history and continues to be a prominent choice
in contemporary building practices.
INTRODUCTION

1.1. Importance of timber in construction

● Timber is a vital construction material, valued for its versatility, sustainability, and
aesthetic appeal.
● It has been a key component in construction for centuries, offering structural strength,
natural beauty, and environmental benefits.
● The importance of timber in construction extends to various applications, from
traditional residential houses to modern, innovative architectural designs.
INTRODUCTION

1.2. Types of timber used in construction

● Various types of timber are used in construction, each possessing unique
characteristics that make them suitable for specific applications.
● The choice of timber depends on factors such as structural requirements, aesthetic
preferences, and regional availability.
● Softwoods like pine and spruce are often preferred for their availability and cost-
effectiveness, while hardwoods such as oak and mahogany are chosen for their
durability and aesthetic qualities.
Softwoods Hardwood
● Pine: ● Oak
● Spruce ● Mahogany.
● Cedar ● Teak:
● Douglas Fir: ● Maple:

Engineered wood products

● Cross-laminated timber.
● Engineered bamboo.
● Glulam.
● Laminated strand lumber LSL.
● Laminated veneer lumber LVL.
● Oriented strand board.
2. CONSTRUCTION PROCESS

2.1. Timber framing techniques

Timber framing involves the assembly of structural timber components to create the
framework of a building.

Common techniques include:

post-and-beam construction:
where vertical posts support
horizontal beams, and timber
framing systems, where wooden
members form a grid-like
structure.
Platform Framing: Also known as stick
framing, this is a modern technique
where each floor is framed separately
and then stacked on top of each other.

Balloon Framing: This older

construction method involves long,
continuous framing members that run
from the foundation to the top of the
building, allowing for the construction
of tall structures
Timber Frame Construction: This
method uses large, solid wood timbers
that are joined together with traditional
wooden joinery, such as mortise and
tenon joints, to form the framework of
a building.
2.2. Joinery methods in timber
construction
● Joinery methods in timber construction involve the joining or connecting of timber pieces
to create a structurally sound and stable framework.
● Joinery methods play a crucial role in timber construction, determining the strength and
stability of the structure.
● The choice of joinery method depends on factors such as the intended use of the
structure, the load it needs to support, and aesthetic considerations.
Dovetail Joints: Dovetail joints have interlocking
trapezoidal shapes, creating a strong and resistant
connection. These joints are often used in high-quality
woodworking.

Lap Joint: In this joint, one piece of wood overlaps

another, and they are fastened together with Dovetail joint
mechanical fasteners or adhesives.

Finger Joints (Box Joint): Finger joints involve

interlocking rectangular projections, resembling the
fingers of two hands clasped together. This method
provides increased glue surface area for a strong
bond.

Finger joint Lap joint

2.3. Finishing and treatment of timber
Finishing and treatment of timber are crucial steps in ensuring the longevity, durability, and
aesthetic appeal of wooden structures. Proper finishing protects timber from environmental
elements, enhances its appearance, and preserves its structural integrity.

Finishings

Staining and Painting: Staining can enhance the

natural color of the wood, while painting can

provide a protective layer against the elements.

Varnishing and Sealing: Varnishes and
sealants can protect the wood from moisture,
UV rays, and general wear and tear, while
also enhancing the appearance of the wood.

Oil and Wax Finishes: These finishes can

provide a natural, low-sheen look to the wood
while also offering some protection.
Treatment
Pressure Treatment: Timber can be pressure-treated
with preservatives to protect it from decay, insects,
and fungal growth. This is commonly used for outdoor
applications.

Heat Treatment: Heat treatment can improve the

dimensional stability and durability of timber by
reducing its moisture content and making it more
resistant to decay.

Chemical Treatments: Chemical treatments such as

borate treatments can be used to protect timber from
termites and other wood-boring insects.
3. CONSTRUCTION COST
3.1. Factors affecting cost of timber construction
Type and Quality of Timber:
● The choice of timber species significantly impacts cost. Hardwoods, such as oak
or mahogany, are often more expensive than softwoods like pine or spruce.
● Timber quality, including factors like moisture content and grade, can affect
pricing. Higher-quality, kiln-dried timber tends to be more expensive.
Construction Design and Complexity:
● The complexity of the construction design influences labor costs. Elaborate or
intricate designs, especially those requiring specialized joinery or detailing, may
increase labor hours and, consequently, the overall cost.
● Customized designs and architectural features may also impact costs due to
increased production time and craftsmanship requirements.
Size and Dimensions of Timber Components:
● The dimensions and sizes of timber components affect material costs. Larger or
specialty-sized timbers may be more expensive than standard sizes.
Labor Costs:
● The cost of skilled labor for timber construction contributes significantly to overall
project costs. Skilled carpenters and craftsmen experienced in timber construction
may demand higher wages.
● Efficiency in construction practices and project management can influence labor
costs positively.
Market Conditions and Availability:
● Market conditions, including demand for timber and fluctuations in timber prices,
can affect overall project costs.
● The availability of certain timber species or grades in the local market can
influence prices. Limited availability may lead to higher costs.
4. ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES

4.1. Advantages
● Sustainability: Timber is a renewable resource, and responsible forestry practices ensure
the replenishment of the wood supply. Low carbon footprint.
● Aesthetic Appeal: Timber adds a natural and warm aesthetic to buildings. It is a versatile
material that can be easily shaped and crafted, allowing for a wide range of design
possibilities.
● Insulation Properties: Timber has natural insulating properties, providing effective thermal
insulation. This can contribute to energy efficiency and reduce heating and cooling costs in
buildings.
Advantages
● Lightweight Construction: Timber is relatively
lightweight compared to other construction materials like
steel or concrete. This can result in faster construction
times, reduced foundation requirements, and lower
transportation costs.
● Ease of Construction: Timber construction is often
faster and more straightforward than other methods. Pre-
fabricated components and timber framing techniques
allow for efficient assembly on-site.
● Reduced Carbon Footprint: Timber acts as a carbon
sink, sequestering carbon dioxide during the growth
phase. The use of timber in construction can contribute
to lower carbon emissions compared to materials with
higher embodied energy.
● Versatility: Timber can be used for various applications,
including framing, flooring, cladding, and interior finishes.
Engineered wood products offer even greater versatility
and strength.
4.2. Disadvantages
Vulnerability to Moisture and Insects: Untreated timber is
susceptible to decay, rot, and insect infestations. Proper
treatment and maintenance are required to mitigate these
risks.
Fire Susceptibility: Timber is flammable, and in the event of a
fire, it can pose safety risks. Fire-retardant treatments are
available, but they may add to the overall cost.
Limited Span Capabilities: Timber may have limitations in
terms of span capabilities compared to materials like steel or
concrete. Larger spans may require additional support
elements.
Initial Cost: High-quality timber, especially hardwoods, can be
more expensive than alternative materials. However, this
cost may be offset by other factors like reduced construction
time.
Disadvantages
Dimensional Changes: Timber can undergo
dimensional changes due to fluctuations in humidity
and temperature. This may lead to issues such as
warping, shrinking, or swelling.
Maintenance Requirements: Regular maintenance,
including sealing, staining, or painting, is necessary
to preserve the appearance and durability of timber
structures. Failure to maintain timber can lead to
degradation.
Limited Load-Bearing Capacity in Compression:
Timber may have lower load-bearing capacity in
compression compared to materials like steel or
concrete. This can influence the design and
requirements for certain structural elements.
Availability and Quality: The availability of high-
quality timber, especially certain species, may vary
by region. Sourcing sustainably produced timber
can also impact availability and cost.