building technology

Description

Chapter 1: Introduction to Building Technology in Kenya

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1.1 Overview of the Construction Industry in Kenya

a) Historical Development

• Pre-colonial construction methods (e.g., mud huts, thatch roofing)

• Influence of colonial architecture (stone buildings, iron roofing)

• Post-independence trends and urbanization

• Role of Vision 2030 and infrastructure projects (e.g., Standard Gauge Railway, LAPSSET)

b) Key Stakeholders and Regulatory Bodies

• Government agencies: National Construction Authority (NCA), Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS)

• Professionals: Architects, Quantity Surveyors, Civil Engineers

• Artisans and fundis (local craftsmen)

• Construction codes: Kenya Building Code, NCA Act

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1.2 Basic Construction Materials and Tools

a) Locally Available Materials

• Stone (coral stone, machine-cut stone)

• Timber (eucalyptus, cypress, mvule)

• Clay and soil-based materials (adobe, stabilized soil blocks)

• Cement, pozzolana, sand, ballast

b) Tools and Equipment

• Traditional tools: trowels, plumb lines, hammers, hand saws

• Modern equipment: concrete mixers, compaction tools, scaffolding

• Safety gear: helmets, gloves, boots

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Chapter 2: Foundation and Wall Construction

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2.1 Types of Foundations in Kenyan Soils

a) Classification of Soils and Site Investigation

• Soil types: black cotton soil, red volcanic soil, sandy soils

• Soil testing methods: sieve analysis, bearing capacity tests

• Site surveys and environmental considerations

b) Foundation Types and Application

• Strip foundation: used for low-rise residential buildings

• Pad foundation: supports point loads (columns)

• Raft/mat foundation: suitable for poor soil conditions

• Pile foundations (briefly): for high-rise or special cases

• Issues in practice: rising damp, poor drainage, termite damage

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2.2 Walling Techniques and Materials

a) Wall Construction Methods

• Load-bearing vs non-load-bearing walls

• Solid vs cavity walls

• Wet vs dry construction methods

b) Walling Materials and Their Suitability

• Burnt clay bricks, concrete blocks

• Stabilized Soil Blocks (SSB): manufacture and use

• Interlocking blocks: eco-friendly and cost-effective

• Timber and bamboo in walling: rural and temporary structures

• Waterproofing and insulation considerations

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Chapter 3: Roofing and Finishing in Kenyan Buildings

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3.1 Roofing Systems in Kenya

a) Types of Roof Structures

• Pitched/gable roofs: popular for residential houses

• Hipped roofs: aesthetic and weather-resistant

• Flat roofs: commercial buildings and modern design

• Trussed roof systems: timber vs steel

b) Roofing Materials and Application

• Corrugated iron sheets (mabati): affordability and availability

• Clay and concrete roofing tiles: durability and aesthetics

• Makuti (palm thatch): coastal and traditional homes

• Gutters, fascia boards, roof drainage

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3.2 Finishing Techniques and Sustainable Practices

a) Finishing Materials and Methods

• Plastering: sand-cement finishes, lime plaster

• Painting: emulsion, gloss, undercoats and primers

• Flooring: terrazzo, ceramic tiles, concrete screed

• Ceiling finishes: gypsum, timber panels

b) Sustainability in Building Finishes

• Use of local and renewable materials

• Passive design for energy efficiency (natural lighting, ventilation)

• Rainwater harvesting systems

• Waste management during and after construction

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