Identifying the main components of a building

by Ann Hayward 10/23/2023

What are the structural components of a building

Building construction is at a high as the economy increases and more folks need resources such as homes, stores and other conveniences. 

Knowing the basics of a building structure is a great way to appreciate some of the technologies we use in our everyday lives and have a more profound understanding of structural fundamentals keeping us safe. 


What are the main components of a building?

Even though many of the structures we use on a daily basis such as grocery stores, shopping centers, and other buildings are simplistic at first glance, there are many components making these designs safe and functional for everyday use. The main basic components of a building include but are not limited to: 


  • Roof 
  • Beams
  • Columns 
  • Parapet
  • Lintels
  • Damp proof course (DPC)
  • Stairs
  • Walls
  • Floor
  • Plinth
  • Foundation
  • Plinth beam 

How are structural members classified?

Structural members are components of a building used to strengthen and stabilize for optimal safety. These particular building components include: 


  • Beams
  • Frames
  • Columns
  • Tension structures 
  • Etc. 

What is the function of structural members?

Structural members of a building include all the systems that act as the “bones” and help to strengthen a structure. For example, slabs are used to create flat surfaces used to carry the load of other structures, such as roof slab or flooring and may be reinforced with concrete beams or walls. 

Footing is another vital component which acts as a tool to transmit the weight and loads from building columns to the soil. 

Everything from the ground floor to the top of the roof serves a vital function, and with the aforementioned basics, you get a better picture of the components making up your home.

About the Author
Author

Ann Hayward

Born in Philadelphia and raised in the suburbs, Ann Hayward got her Pennsylvania real estate license at age 18 even before going to college. This second-generation real estate professional followed in the footsteps of her father and two uncles, inheriting their passion for the business. Licensed in DC, Maryland and Virginia, Ann is accomplished in her career, with numerous designations including SFR, SRES, PSA, WHC, and multiunit Housing Development Finance Professional (HDFP) from the National Development Council. She specializes in Prince Georges and Montgomery Counties, Northern Virginia and Washington, DC, all jurisdictions where Ann has lived and knows very well. In addition to her professional expertise, she owns and manages personal investment property, understands and has been involved in the renovation/remodeling process, and has great resources which she shares with clients. When you hire Ann to represent you, she will make your buying or selling experience an enjoyable, rewarding one. Her compassion, sensitivity to her clients’ needs, eye for detail, and ability to see the big picture when guiding you through a purchase or sale are unique assets that will ensure your success. A diverse and relevant background also gives Ann a distinct edge. For 30 years, she worked in fast-paced, high-pressure television and theatrical production, attaining the highest achievement – DGA membership as a Director, and as an award-winning staff and freelance writer. Her keen audio visual skills and design sense benefit sellers in marketing their properties, and are invaluable in helping buyers see the potential of space. A true renaissance woman, Ann was also an income tax professional and office manager for H&R Block, so she thoroughly understands the tax and financial implications of acquiring and selling real estate. Her superior organizational skills are further evidenced as owner of a downsizing/professional organizing business, Managed For You, which allows her to connect with everyone from millennials to boomers and seniors, whether for small space planning or assisting with major decluttering and transitioning. Ann holds an AB in American History from Simmons College, Boston, plus attended Robert Wagner Graduate School of Public Administration where she was a candidate for Doctorate. She additionally studied Film Direction at the American Film Institute in LA, and was a Stanford University post-graduate Professional Journalism Fellow. Personally, Ann is an avid if not very good golfer, and the co-founder of a nonprofit 501c3 organization offering educational guidance, tutoring and counseling for youngsters from elementary school through college admission. She sits on the board of trustees of a nonprofit educational film production corporation as well. (202) 494-6252 [email protected]