Buildings, materials, and how they stand up
Roof Parapet Wall: How It Works
Its performance depends on coordinating structure, waterproofing, coping, insulation, air control, drainage, and any safety or fire-related role.
By Clara Voss · 2026-09-10Latest
What Is a Skylight? Types, Shafts and Performance
A skylight is roof-level glazing that brings daylight indoors. Learn fixed, vented and tubular types, when a light shaft is needed, and performance factors.
What Is a Solarium? Definition and Sunroom Differences
Typically built with glass walls and a glass roof, it admits abundant sunlight and broad views; overhead glazing usually distinguishes it from a sunroom.
Brickwork Bond Types Compared: How to Choose
See how running, header, English, Flemish, stack and garden-wall patterns differ, then choose by wall system, dimensions and workmanship.
Concrete Foundation for a Brick Wall: Footing Size
No universal size fits every wall; footing width, thickness and embedment depend on wall type, loads, soil, frost conditions and drainage.
Stone Veneer Foundation: What to Verify
Exterior veneer is not automatically foundation-approved. Verify substrate, grade, moisture, attachment, drainage, local rules and warranty.
Foundation Brickwork: How to Evaluate It
Adequacy depends on the complete load path, soil support, geometry, condition, drainage and local approval—not visible brick alone.
More articles
3D Modeling Software: Choose by Workflow
Tinkercad fits simple browser projects, Blender a broad creative pipeline, Shapr3D precision CAD, Revit BIM, and Maya or 3ds Max entertainment.
Cellar Dry Rot Causes: How to Trace the Damp
Trace leaks, groundwater, rainwater defects, condensation and damp-masonry connections, with a table showing where to check first.
Lateran Basilica: Rome’s Cathedral Explained
Its Constantinian foundation, medieval fabric, Borromini’s Baroque interior and Galilei’s façade show how centuries of rebuilding shaped the church.
Precast Lintel: Types, Sizing and Installation
Screen options by wall construction, clear opening, bearing, supported width, loads and form—not stock length alone.
Stone Masonry: Types, Materials and Wall Systems
Compare structural, dry-stone, adhered veneer and anchored cladding, with guidance on stone tests, mortar compatibility, drainage and historic repair.
Type N vs Type S Mortar: Strength, Workability & Uses
Type N fits many moderate above-grade jobs; Type S is considered for heavier loads, soil pressure, below-grade work, or demanding exposure.
Unreinforced Masonry: Signs, Risks, Retrofit Options
Explains how records and structural evaluation confirm suspected URM, plus how local rules, performance objectives and documentation shape retrofit decisions.
Masonry Veneer: Types, Loads and Drainage
Compare anchored and adhered systems, trace gravity and lateral load paths, and understand how cavities, flashing, weeps and movement joints prevent failure.
What Is Masonry? Definition, Materials and Uses
Brick, stone and concrete block are assembled as individual units into work that may be structural or veneer, with distinct roles for mortar and grout.
W18x35 Dimensions, Weight & Section Properties
Tabulated values include 17.70 in depth, 6.00 in flange width, a 0.300 in web, 0.425 in flanges and 35 lb/ft; W460×52 is commonly listed as the metric designation.
Metal Floor Joists: Types, Spans, Sizing and Cost
Start with the application and complete floor assembly, then evaluate loads, clear span, spacing, depth, serviceability, MEP routing and installed cost.
Best Way to Insulate a Metal Building by Use & Climate
See how climate, humidity, occupancy, heating schedule, roof type, construction stage, access and budget determine the right assembly.