SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE, BUILDING AND DESIGN

BACHELOR OF QUANTITY SURVEYING (Hons)

MARCH 2015 INTAKE

Construction Technology 1 (BLD60104)Assignment

Group members' name: Darren Loong Chi Yoong (0318029) Lau Chin Sheng (0317899) Kiing Kiu Chun (0318727) Lee Jian Ru (0318132)

Tutorial group: 1 - Tuesday (2pm-4pm)

Lecturer: Ms. Azrina

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction ........................................................................ 3-5- Objective of this assignment- Location background

Type of Roof .................................................................... 6-17

Type of Windows ........................................................... 18-24

Type of Doors ............................................................... 25-30

Type of Stairs ................................................................. 31-34

Conclusion ......................................................................... 35

2

Introduction

The aim of this project is to identify, compare and contrast of the type of roof, type of windows and doors, and type of stairs of chosen building. This project split in 3 parts.

Part 1Illustrate the type of the building with plan / sketches / photo / diagrams.

Part 2Identify and explain the type of roof, type of windows and doors and type of stairs of the building with sketches/ photo / diagrams.

Part 3Compare and contrast with one other types of and recommend an alternative to replace the existing type of roof, window and door, staircase.

3

Location BackgroundIOI Mall in Puchong is a modern 3-storey shopping and entertainment mall with a total area of approximately 650,000 square feet. This mall with a Mediterranean architecture was launched in June 1996. It is one of the major shopping centre for residents in Puchong and the vicinity. The other shopping centre is TESCO Puchong which is located just beside the shopping mall.

Servicing the needs of the people, this shopping mall has a few main tenants that provide branded goods as well as entertainment for the entire family.

The 3 floors has a total of 147 outlets divided into Food Street, Entertainment Wing, Education Corner and Fashion City to name a few. Jusco departmental store houses a wide range of branded and local goods that you can choose from. Example of goods offered at Jaya Jusco include clothes, food stuff, stationary  shoes and a variety of household products. Most of the items here are reasonably priced.

Address :

IOI Mall PuchongBandar PuchongBatu 9 Jalan Puchong47100 Selangor.

4

Floor Plans

5

Types of RoofThe types of roof found at the city mall we have chosen which is IoI city mall, Puchong consists of the main roof is the pitched roofs, additional smaller roofing which are glass roofs which are in a cone like shape and trapezoidal roofs. Function of the pitched roofFirst and foremost, there are several types of roofing we have saw on our visit to the city mall and we noticed each type of roofs found in the mall serves a different purpose for the mall. The purpose of the main roof which are the pitched acts as a shelter which provides protection from animals and weather, notably rain, but also heat, wind and sunlight.

Besides that, the roof also has roof tiles. For IoI mall, they use clay roof tiles. The reason for using clay roof tiles is because it is very durable as it does not corrode (chemically inert) so it can withstand the climate change in Malaysia, it provides a very aesthetically pleasing roof system and it is environmentally friendly.

Left section of IoI Mall roof

Right section of IoI Mall

Middle section of IoI Mall

6

SuitabilityThe pitched roof used for IoI Mall is very suitable as Malaysia has a tropical climate which means it experiences high temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. Daytime temperatures rise above 30°C (86°F) year-round and night-time temperatures rarely drop below 20°C (68°F). In this case, a pitched roof which has a slope can provide proper shade during the day as well enhance the drainage as it will allow the rainwater to flow towards the gutters which can help reduce the problems such as leakage if the rain water has not been properly removed. In addition, as most houses and residential area in Malaysia uses pitched roof as well, using this type of roof is a good plan as it will be able to blend in nicely with its’ surroundings and not stick out like a sore thumb. In conclusion, the pitched roof is a good choice to be used as the roof for IoI city mall as it sustain the climate change of Malaysia, it helps the shopping mall blend in with the other residential areas in its’ surroundings and the clay roof tiles used as the finish gives it a very aesthetic pleasing appearance.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Pitched roof

Close up pictures of IoI Mall roof

7

Advantages Disadvantages

Loft Space- constructed in such a way as to afford plenty of usable space, either as much-needed storage or even as additional living space.

Expense-the more complex design, additional building materials and extra man-hours cost significantly more than a flat roof.

Lifespan-is almost certain to offer a much longer lifespan than a flat roof, with materials that are more durable and weather resistant.-The internal accommodation will be more efficiently insulated and will not suffer from the extremes of temperature.

Foundations-Pitched roofs also place a greater burden on the foundations of the building and this may have implications for the depth of the footings.

Natural- can be more effectively blended in to either the rest of the property (in the case of an extension) or to neighbouring buildings, while also helping to retain a sense of individuality and character.

Leakage problem-a few slipped tiles may be the result of failure of individual tiles or the effect of a storm or extreme weather.-moss on roof could create blockage which could prevent rainwater from flowing to the gutters outlets and other drainage points on the roof.

Function the glass roofSecondly, we also noticed there was the presence of glass roofs. The function for the glass roof is to provide the shopping mall with more light so it will give

One of the possible problems that will be faced when a pitched roof is used which can lead to leakage problem which is the blockage of the gutters which could have been the cause of moss growing on the roof

8

off a more welcoming atmosphere compared to a shopping mall which is dark and gloomy which will give off a more dull atmosphere. Less lighting would be needed with the presence of glass roof as they are used to provide more light from the sun. Hence, with the presence of the glass roofing, the IoI mall can reduce the energy usage. Besides that, it is weather resistant therefore the maintenance would be lower as it will not corrode or rust even if there is drastic climate change.

SuitabilityThe glass roof is very suitable to the IoI mall. This is because the glass roof is not only nice but the benefit it has provided for the mall such as providing extra light from the sun which gives the sun a more welcoming look as it looks bright. Besides that, it also saves energy as it provides natural lighting which reduces the need for light bulbs to help light up the room. The glass roof also indirectly helps regulate the temperature for the shopping mall. This is because the glass roof is a poor heat insulator, hence it allows sun to pass through the roof which can make the temperature in the room less chilly.

Top view of the glass roof

Bottom view of the glass roof

9

In conclusion, the glass roof is a suitable to be used at IoI mall because it brings a lot of benefit to the mall even though it is quite costly to build, in the long run, it can help the mall save more money from the lack of usage of light bulbs.

Advantages and disadvantages of Glass RoofAdvantages Disadvantages

Lighting Factor-this installation does not reduce light in the room, rather provides more light.

Heat Factor-during hot days, the areas which are under the glass roofs would tend to have higher temperature as glass is not a good heat insulator which allows the heat energy to go into the shopping mall.

Energy saving-glass roofing allows the sun to pass through. This allows the place to receive more sunlight which reduces the amount of light bulbs needed for the mall to brighten up the shopping mall.

Easily dirty-Those areas which are under the glass roof are noisy and easily accumulate dirt, if we close these spaces with glazed roofs would not present such inconveniences.

Aesthetic look-glass roofing gives the shopping mall a more modern look to the building. This will make it look more appealing to the customers which go to the shopping mall.

Expensive-to improve the safety and security of the roof to prevent breakage, glass can be either toughened or laminated. Hence, it will increase the price of the glass roofing would increase.

The glass roof could easily get dirty which means it is high maintenance to keep as glass is quite prone to dirt sticking to it.

The picture on the left shows the effects of using glass a roof. The glass roof does not reflect or insulate the heat away hence it will increase the temperature inside the roof.

10

Function of the trapezoidal roofLast of all, we have found the zinc coated trapezoidal roofs. Unlike most shopping complex, IoI mall has a rooftop parking. With the presence of the rooftop parking, a shade must be provided for the cars. The function of the trapezoidal roofs are to reflect the sun away from the car as well as to provide a proper shade for the cars. This is to ensure the car does not absorb the heat given off by the sun which could spoil the car if the car is exposed to the heat of the sun in the long run.

SuitabilityIn my opinion, the trapezoidal roofing is suitable choice as a shade for the cars. This is because it is made of metal which makes it a good heat insulator. This can help remove excess heat given off by the sun. Besides that, it is the sheet metal has been galvanized which means it has an extra protective layer on top of the metal. This will act as a sacrificial metal which will rust instead of the metal beneath of the sacrificial metal. This will make the sheet stronger as the layer of rust can prevent further rusting.Last of all, it is economical which means it is cheap. This tells us that it can be easily replaced if some damage were to have been done towards the sheet roofing such as dents or if the sheet roof was already faulty from the start. In conclusion, I think the use of trapezoidal roofing is a good choice as the roof for the carpark as it is a god heat insulator, economical and it is durable.

Advantages and disadvantages of Trapezoidal roofs Advantages Disadvantages

Good Heat Insulation-the colour coating on these sheets has strong insulating properties and thus these sheets give the excellent protection against heat.

Noise-the sound of rain tapping on the roof is like living inside a drum.  In a rainstorm or hailstorm, living beneath thin sheets of metal is bound to be noisier than living beneath thick slate

Trapezoidal roofing which provides shade for the cars

The trapezoidal roofing is still strong even with a layer of rust which means it has been galvanized

11

or tile.Corrosion Resistance-manufactured using superior quality of steel and aluminium, these sheets have excellent anti-corrosion properties.

Denting a metal roof can dent if large hailstones fall on it. Aluminium and copper, much softer than steel, are more prone to denting.

Economical-requirement of extra costs like installation and maintenance costs are minimum due to which these sheets have excellent economical value.

Lightning-there are many documented instances of lightning striking trees or other high objects located near metal roofs rather than the roofs themselves

Part 3Substitute for the pitched roofFor the main roof, I would suggest to change the type of the roof used which is from pitched roof to gambrel roof. I would suggest this because it is quite similar to pitched roof but has a few added advantages to which I believe the mall needs.

The dent which has been made on the sheet would reduce the appearance of the sheet.

Using these sheet roof can cause a lot of noise to occur during rainy season which could be very irritating to some people

Since the roof is made of metal, it is more prone to getting lightning strike which could damage the cars in the process

12

A gambrel, or barn roof, is much like mansard in a sense that it has two different slopes. The difference between the two is that the gambrel only has two sides, while the mansard has four. Recently, this style or roof is not only found on top of barns, farm houses and log cabins. They are also seen on Dutch Colonial and Georgian style homes, as well. Hence this proves that, gambrel style of roofing is getting more popular.

Advantages and disadvantages of gambrel roofAdvantages Disadvantages

Loft space-Much like the pitched, the gambrel provides extra living space for a garret, attic or loft. Plus it’s simple to frame out.

Weather- These roofs are not ideal or advisable in areas that experience snowfall, heavy winds, and heavy breezy weather as it is not tough enough to handle the pressure.

Cost-These roofs are not only easy to build. However, they are time and cost saving too.

Facing- South facing heavy winds and rain can harm the roof top area.

Style-the roof has two curved lines that present an uncomplicated and stylish look. The unwavering style looks satisfying and fashionable.

Discrimination- It is not very easy to differentiate between gambrel roofs and bold roofs that posses change in affix designs.

Substitute for glass roofFor the glass roof, the thing I would subsititute would be the shape of how the glass roof has been constructed which is in a cone like shape which I think to be more costly instead of replacing it with a flat roof which serves the same purpose but saves costs on the material used.

Examples of Gambrel roof

13

Advantages and disadvantages of flat roofAdvantages Disadvantages

Cost-flat roofing is generally considered to be a more affordable option at the

Poor drainage-flat roofs do drain, but not nearly as efficiently as a roof with any kind of

A cone like shape which is found at IoI mall

The flat glass roof which I suggest to change which is cheaper and it can be an extra walk way.

14

point of construction and involves considerably less materials and labour than a pitched roof.

pitch. Therefore water has a tendency to puddle and remain on the roof, which could lead to the roofing material breaking down or to eventual leaks, particularly along the seams.

Design-typically the design of choice for smaller structures, such as garages and extensions. While flat roofs are designed to hold standing water to some degree, a slight pitch of only a few degrees is usually incorporated to enable rainwater to drain away into a hopper.

Maintenance-constant checking for leakage is required so a leakage does not occur. The materials used for flat roof are not usually long lasting which the normal lifespan given is about 20 years only.

Stability-Although any excursion to the roof should be dealt with using care and caution, flat roofs offer significantly more stability and horizontal surface than sloped roofs do.

Collects Debris and Dirt

-A roof that is flat, such as a flat concrete roof, is more likely to collect debris that will typically slide off a sloped roof.

Method of InstallingThe method of installing the roof for both gambrel roofing and glass roofing are the same. Hence, both have the same procedure:1st step: Tearing off the roof and preparing the roof deck (remove the old roof and fix the problems found in the previous roof such as leakage)2nd step: installing roof deck protection (deck protection for is in the foundation on which a good roof system is built)3rd step: install leak barriers (prevent leakage)4th step: starter strip shingles (to help in wind resistance)5th step: nailing of shingles (take your time nailing the shingles as improper nailing could cause future problems)6th step: installing your shingles 7th step: install flashing and ridge vents (flashing is used for water proofing and ridge vents help reduce hot moist air in your attic)8th step: install ridge cap shingles (helps protect some of the highest stress and vulnerable areas of the roof)9th step: cleaning up the job site

Substitute for trapezoidal roof

15

As for this roof, what I suggest for substitution is the material used which in this case, they use a metal which will rust which makes the sheet roof looks worn out as well as dirty. The material I suggest that should replace the current material is aluminium roof sheets.

Advantages and disadvantages of aluminium sheetsAdvantages Disadvantages

Does not rust-aluminium is a metal that will not rust. Hence, it can retain the original appearance of the sheets.

Expensive-Aluminium at $1250 per tonne, is almost ten times as expensive as steel.

Strong-strength-wise it is comparable to steel. It is much stronger than steel at lower temperature. Unlike steel, aluminium does not become more brittle during lower temperature.

Noise-the sound of rain tapping on the roof is like living inside a drum.  In a rainstorm or hailstorm, living beneath thin sheets of metal is bound to be noisier than living beneath thick slate or tile.

Lightweight-aluminium is light. Hence, it is easier to work with as well as carry around. Repair would be faster with carrying a light weight metal such as aluminium.

Low melting point-aluminium has low melting point compared to most metal such as steel. The melting point of aluminium is roughly 660 degree celcius.

Method of installing metal roof

1st step: Make sure the first panel is installed square - all the other panels will follow it.

Pictures and examples of aluminium sheet roofing to replace the old material

16

2nd step: On exposed fastener panels: While you don't have to predrill holes for your screws, predrilling panels will make it easier to get the screw lines straighter. - You can predrill a stack of about 10 panels at a time. - Make sure you measure for predrilling accurately.

3rd step: If you pop lines for your screws, make sure to use blue chalk, and NOT RED CHALK. Red chalk is very difficult to get off and can stay on for months, while blue chalk will usually wash off with the next rain.

4th step: If you need to cut panels lengthwise, you can score them with a box cutter several times, and then bend it back and forth until it breaks off, producing a clean edge. You can also use tin snips or the TurboShear Drill Attachment for cutting them.

5th step: Screw your fasteners in straight, and don't overtighten them. The best way to do this is to set your drill tension, preferably testing it out on a scrap piece of metal or on an area that will be covered over by a ridge cap or other flashing.

6th step: Wear protective rubber coated gloves while working with metal roofing and flashings. This not only protects you from the sharp metal edges, it also gives you a better grip on the metal roofing.

7th step: After you finish installing the metal roofing, make sure to brush off any metal filings / shavings that are on the roof. Otherwise they will cause unsightly rust spots where they rest on the metal roofing.

Types of WindowThe types of window found at the Puchong IOI city mall, are Awning window and fixed/picture window.

17

Function of the Awning window. To provide a means for admission of natural daylight to the interior of

building. Serve as a means of providing the necessary ventilation.

Three general objective of providing a means of ventilation are:- To extract moisture from existing space where it is produced in

significant quantities.- To provide for occasional rapid ventilation where moisture presence

is likely to produce condensation.- To achieve background ventilation which is adequate without

affecting the comfort of the existing space.

SuitabilityWe can say that the reason Awning window is used in IOI mall alone or in combination with other windows is because they’re often placed above or below a fixed (picture) window to allow ventilation without blocking the view. They’re the perfect window for rainy days, as their awning-like angle lets in fresh air but keeps the rain out; correctly placed, they can also be an excellent option for letting light and fresh air into your place and maintaining privacy.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Awning windowADVANTAGE DISADVANTAGE

They maximize ventilation but still block rainwater from coming inside.

Screens for awning windows are set on the inside, so you may end up with some dirt on your floors.

Can be positioned anywhere—next Awnings that are within reach from

Awning window

18

to windows, arranged in columns, or placed above patio doors and picture windows.

the exterior ground of the home can pose a security risk.

Awning windows are great for bedrooms and other areas that need to maintain privacy but still let some light in.

If you’re installing an awning high up, consider self-cleaning glass for the exterior surface. Otherwise, cleaning is a tougher task.

*Self-cleaning glass : if dust and crud accumulate on the glass in the horizontal position, rain or a quick squirt of the hose is all it takes to get the window clean.

Function of the Picture/fixed window.-Excellent insulation -Weatherproofing -Picture window’s uncluttered simplicity minimizes obstruction of your desired view.-not for ventilation (it’s fixed; couldn’t open.)

Picture/fixed window

19

SuitabilityIn the IOI mall, the picture window (also known as the fixed window) is the simplest and yet most versatile element of the window décor, letting in light but keeping out the elements. Because it doesn’t open and has no moving parts (hence, it’s “fixed”), the picture window offers excellent insulation and weatherproofing. Plus, the window’s uncluttered simplicity maximizes the view of the outdoors and allowed more daylight to enter the existing space.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Picture/fixed window.

Advantages DisadvantagesPicture windows offer an unobstructed view of the outdoors.

Generally for looks only and won’t help with ventilation on their own.

If combined with patio doors or open-and-close windows, picture windows bring the perfect balance of light and ventilation.

The large expanse of glass can make them vulnerable to breakage.

Excellent insulation and weatherproofing.

Part 3Substitute for both Awning and Picture windows.For the type of window, I would suggest to change all windows in Puchong IOI mall into picture/fixed window with stained glass. This is because stained glass provide more aesthetic ambience to the existing space. Hence, it will be another attractive spot of the mall. However stained glass contribute limited daylight to enter the mall and limited ventilation from the picture/fixed window but these problems can be overcome by installing ventilator and a more sophisticate lighting system.

20

Advantages and Disadvantages of Picture/fixed window(with Stained Glass.)

ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGES Versatile. Stained glass is no Limited light. Light can still

Normal Stained glass window.

21

longer limited to inoperable picture windows. It can be found on many different windows from awning to casement.

pass through, but busy designs and dark colors can limit the amount of passable light, making the room appear darker.

Attractive. Stained glass windows are often used to add visual interest to a boring room. The window becomes the focal point, while giving the space a personal touch.

Obstructed views. Stained glass windows offer privacy, but distorted views work both ways. When looking out or in, the scenery can appear blurry and washed in color.

Privacy. Because they’re ornately decorated, stained glass windows offer more privacy than other windows.

Overuse. When used as an accent piece, stained glass can be pleasing to the eye. Outfit an entire room with it and the look goes from elegant to garish.

Method of installing1. Installation against double channel sealed unit.

22

2. Installation against single channel sealed unit.

23

3. For installation in locations with condensation problems or against single pane windows, additional vents for air movement are needed

24

Types of DoorThe types of door that we found at the mall we have chosen which is IoI mall, Puchong are, exterior and interior doors, then it is further broken down as solid wood doors, glass door and automatic sliding glass door.

Function of the DoorExterior doors and interior doors that we found in IoI mall, Puchong serve a different purpose for the mall. The purposes of exterior door are provide security for the shops and people who visit the mall, preserve the internal heat of building, maintain levels of sound insulation, protection from weather such as thunderstorm, and glass doors that are transparent help to increase the appearance of the mall. The purposes of interior door are used to close the access through internal walls, provide security, and some of the solid wood door inside the mall act as fire door.

Function of Glass DoorIn IoI mall, Puchong, we noticed that there are two types of door, glass door and solid wood door, and both of them serve a different purpose for the mall. Glass doors mostly serve as shop front in IoI mall, Puchong.

Frameless glass shop front

25

Automatic sliding glass door Automatic sliding glass door that is found in front and at the sides of IOI mall, Puchong. Automatic sliding glass door will detect whether there are people in front of the door. If someone is detected, the door will open automatically, when no one is detected, it will automatically close the door.

SuitabilityGlass doors are a great choice for businesses and it provides a lot advantages.One of the distinct benefits of doors made from glass is the fact that they allow light to pass through. For doors which open to the outside there is the benefit of being able to enjoy natural sunlight entering the mall. Not only does this sunlight look and feel much more pleasant than artificial light, but it also helps to reduce the need for that artificial lighting, lowering costs as well as representing a greener alternative.

But even in cases where the door is not an exterior one, a glass door still allows light to pass from one room to the other, not only creating a visually more attractive space, but also a more practical one, since there are fewer shadows and darker areas, maximising the efficient use of the room.

Automatic sliding glass door that operate automatically is more convenient for customers who want to enter particular enclosed place.

In conclusion, I think the glass door is a good choice to be used as the door for IoI mall as it is convenient and suit the business purposes .

26

Advantages and Disadvantages of Glass DoorAdvantages Disadvantages

Appearance- The glass doors add richness, light, beauty and charm.

Privacy

- Glass doors need curtains to install along with them to attain privacy.

Easy cleaning

-They do not swell from exposure to moisture, bring visual openness, easy cleaning.

Fragile-Liable to crack or break if they receive a very sharp knock or heavy blow.

Good Resistance

-Resistant to termites and other insects.-Cannot rust, peel, come off, or corrode.

Intensive installation-Hard to install, labour cost increase.

Function of Solid Wood DoorWe also noticed that there are solid wood door inside IOI mall, Puchong. Solid wood door mostly serve as fire door in IoI mall, Puchong.

Fire door in the mall

27

Fire doors are part of a building's passive fire protection system, an essential requirement for public buildings. Fire door serves to protect escape routes of the mall.

Besides, we also found that solid wood doors are used as the back doors of the cinema in IOI mall, Puchong

Suitability

Solid wood doors are a great choice for fire doors because it fulfils the requirement of fire doors. Fire doors are manufactured to withstand the spread of fire for a given period of time, normally a minimum of 30 minutes. Fire door may be solid construction or made with a special core, often flax board or wood composite material that required longer time to burn. Solid wood doors can be made from a variety of hard or soft woods. Therefore solid wood doors can say have high fire resistance because fire has to burn through many materials. Solid wood door is also good sound resistance, which suit cinema theatre door requirement.In conclusion, I think the solid wood door is a good choice to be used as the door for IoI mall as it is durable and have good sound and fire resistant.

Fire door in the mall

28

Advantages and Disadvantages of Solid Wood DoorAdvantages Disadvantages

Durable- Solid wood door will last very long if good materials are used.

Cost

- A good quality hardwood can be very expensive.

Good sound resistance

- Have the greatest sound deadening abilities.

Heavy-Heavy and hard to carry.

Good fire resistance

-Provide more resistance to fire than engineered wood or hollow core doors.

shrinkage and expansion-More prone to shrinkage and expansion due to temperature and moisture changes.

Substitute for solid wood doorFor the solid wooden door, the thing I would subsititute would be the steel doors. Some people may feel that they can save some money by purchasing wooden doors. Actually, sometimes wooden doors are more expensive . Wood absorbs moisture easily, it can peel, bubble, bow, twist and warp; resulting in a costly replacement. Wooden doors are not energy efficient and they require routine maintenance. But, steel metal doors require less maintenance .Steel doors are energy-efficient and can even lower your establishment’s heating and cooling costs.  Obviously these traits are especially handy in environments with high precipitation and temperatures like Malaysia. Steel doors even have higher fire resistance than solid wood door.

29

Advantages and Disadvantages of Steel DoorAdvantages Disadvantages

Durable- Steel door last longer than wooden door

Easily dented

- Dent easily when get knocked by hard object.

Good resistance

-Metal doors can handle bad weather and will not need any annual upkeep.

-It won’t rot and spilt

 lack of insulation-Not suitable in climates with very low or very high temperatures.

Good fire resistance

-Provide more resistance to fire than wood

Intensive installation-Hard to install, labour cost increase.

Example of steel door

30

TYPE OF STAIRS

Introduction

There are various types of stairs that can be built in different type of spaces, such as straight

stairs, L-shaped stairs, U-shaped stairs etc. The suitability what kind of stairs is to be used

depends on the design and size of the space. Stairs that are used for the construction of malls

is usually only used as an emergency staircase because most malls today have an escalator or

travelator installed.

There are many stairs that can

be found in IOI Mall and they

are only used as an emergency stairs. The type of stairs that is used in all the emergency

stairs in IOI Mall is the U-Shaped stairs or is also called 'Half landing stairs'.

Function of U-Shaped Stairs

Examples of the type of stairs that can be built.

The U-shaped stairs that is used as the emergency stairs of IOI Mall.

31

The basic function of a stairs is that it is a path that connects one level to another level. As

the stairs in IOI Mall acts as an emergency stairs, its specific function is to allow the patrons

to use the stairs in the event where there is an unforseen circumstance such as a breakdown

in the lifts or the escalators and when there is a fire. The U-shaped stairs is basically two

parallel flights of stairs connected by a rectangular landing that requires 180-degree turn in

the walk line. The 180-degree turn creates a substantial space for patrons to land, unlike

other type of stairs where there is limited or no space to land.

Advantages Disadvantages

Easier fit into an architectural plan- U-shaped stairs is easier to draw out on a plan of a building compared to other type of stairs. It is also easier to be measured by the quantity surveyor. This makes U-shaped stairs the most common type of stairs used in to construct commercial buildings.

Difficult to build- Requires a longer period of time to design and build because of its number of flights of stairs and the landings.

The landing has a wide space- The landing of a U-shaped stairs is very wide and usually in a rectangular shape. This creates a space for patrons to rest while climbing up the stairs or even rush down without having to collide with other patrons in the unlikely event of an emergency.

Requires more floor space to build- U-shaped staircase a wide staircase due to its separation of the flights of stairs with a rectangular landing therefore it requires a wider space to build.

Safe- The flights of stairs are shorter so a fall down a staircase will be unlikely and even if there is a fall the injury may not be serious, as he or she will stop at the landing.

Costly- Constructing a U-shaped staircase is costly, as it requires more building materials and more labour cost.

Advantages & Disadvantages of U-Shaped Stairs

A clear photo showing three flights of stairs where the top stair and middle stair is connected by the 180-degree turn.

180-degree turn creates a landing space.

32

Suitability of U-shaped Stairs

U-shaped stairs is probably the most suitable type of stairs to be used as an emergency

staircase in a commercial building such as a mall. This is because it is the safest type of stairs

compared to other types of stairs. The patrons of the mall can rush down the stairs quickly

during the event of an emergency. It is also user friendly because of the 180-degree turn

landing, making patrons who have difficulty in walking have a temporary space to rest.

Substitute to U-Shaped Stairs

The type of stairs that is suitable to substitute U-shaped stairs is straight stairs with central

landing. This type of staircase is similar to the U-shaped stairs except there is no turns and

the landing is smaller than that of a U-shaped stairs.

A short flight of stairs before a landing makes it safer for patrons to climb and go down.

A photo showing three flights of stairs taken from below. The 180 degree turn can be seen clearly.

Straight stairs with central landing.

An example of a straight stairs with a landing.

33

Advantages & Disadvantages of Straight Stairs

34

Advantages Disadvantages

Easy to construct- Straight stairs is easy to design and construct. It does not require a large workforce to construct it.

Falls can be serious- As a straight stairs directly connects one floor to another without any turning, unlike the U-shaped stairs, the flight of stairs would be longer and a person who falls down while walking on the stairs may result in severe injury.

Inexpensive- Straight stairs is less costly than U-shaped stairs because construction is simpler and less time consuming.

Requires more space to construct- A landing which is to be constructed between a flight of a straight stairs may require extra space. This will also result in difficulty accomodating in the floor plan.

Uninterrupted view- A person who is travelling up or down a straight stairs has a clear view of the entire flight therefore there is a lower risk of collidng with someone who is going in another direction.

No visual barrier- Because there is no visual barrier between the two floors connected by a straight stairs, there is often a lack of privacy.

CONCLUSION

Through this assignment, our group managed to anaylse and identify the types

of roof, windows, doors and stairs of IOI Mall Puchong. We have used our

knowledge that we have learned in Construction Technology 1 and apply it in

this assignment. We have understood that different types of building have

different types of roof, windows, doors and stairs. The selection of the types of

roof, windows, doors and stairs depends on the design of the space and the

peference of the contractor and designer. Different types of roof, windows,

doors and stairs have different functions and its advantages and disadvantages.

35