The building superstructure is the visible part of a building that sits above ground.
This essential component of any construction project encompasses everything from the ground floor upwards to the roof. It is the portion of the building that you see and interact with daily.
Superstructure vs. Substructure
Understanding the superstructure is easiest when compared to its counterpart, the substructure.
- Superstructure: The part above ground, including floors, walls, beams, columns, and the roof.
- Substructure: The part below ground, primarily consisting of the foundation, which supports the entire building. The provided reference highlights that the substructure is the portion below the soil, also known as the foundation, and project managers should not underestimate its importance.
Think of the substructure as the building's legs and feet, anchored into the ground, while the superstructure is the body and head resting upon them.
Key Elements of the Superstructure
The superstructure includes various structural elements that work together to create the building's form and function. These typically involve:
- Columns and Beams: Vertical and horizontal members forming the structural frame.
- Slabs: The horizontal layers creating floors and ceilings.
- Walls: Both load-bearing and non-load-bearing walls defining spaces.
- Stairs and Elevators: Providing access between different levels.
- Roof: The uppermost covering protecting the building from the elements.
Understanding the role and composition of the superstructure is crucial in construction, as it defines the usable space and overall appearance of the building.
