Building element
According to the Uniclass classifications, ‘elements’ are: '…multi-trade built objects, made up of several systems, collectively serving a common purpose. They start life as un-designed objects such as ‘external walls’ with performance attributes such as U-values attached, but become steadily more defined as design decisions are made during the project.'
Uniclass 2015, (maintained and updated by the NBS) suggests that: 'Elements are the main components of a structure like a bridge (foundations, piers, deck) or a building (floors, walls and roofs).'
NRM1: Order of cost estimating and cost planning for capital building work, defines an element as: '...a major part of a group element (e.g. the elements that create group element 3: Internal finishes are 3.1:Wall finishes, 3.2: Floor finishes, and 3.3: Ceiling finishes).A separate cost target can be established for each element.'
Where, 'group element' means: '...the main headings used to describe the facets of an elemental cost plan (i.e. Substructure; Superstructure; Internal finishes; Fittings, furnishings and equipment; Services; Complete buildings and building units;Work to existing buildings; External works; Facilitating works; Main contractor’s preliminaries; Main contractor’s overheads and profit; Project/design team fees; Other development/project costs; Risks; and Inflation).'
Faster, Smarter, More Efficient: Building Skills for Offsite Construction, published by CITB in April 2017, defines element as: ‘Items manufactured offsite and put together with other components to make a whole product.’
Assessing risks in insulation retrofits using hygrothermal software tools, Heat and moisture transport in internally insulated stone walls, by Joseph Little, Calina Ferraro and Beñat Arregi, published by Historic Environment Scotland in 2015, states: ‘The building fabric is broken down into building elements, such as floors, walls and roof. At times, a building element may be a building competent; in other cases, the element may be made up of many component parts.’
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
Infrastructure that connect the physical and digital domains.
Harnessing robotics and AI in challenging environments
The key to nuclear decommissioning and fusion engineering.
BSRIA announces Lisa Ashworth as new CEO
Tasked with furthering BSRIA’s impressive growth ambitions.
Public buildings get half a million energy efficiency boost
£557 million to switch to cleaner heating and save on energy.
CIOB launches pre-election manifesto
Outlining potential future policies for the next government.
Grenfell Tower Inquiry announcement
Phase 2 hearings come to a close and the final report due in September.
Progress from Parts L, F and O: A whitepaper, one year on.
A replicated study to understand the opinion of practitioners.
ECA announces new president 2024
Electrical engineer and business leader Stuart Smith.
A distinct type of countryside that should be celebrated.
Should Part O be extended to existing buildings?
EAC brands heatwave adaptation a missed opportunity.
Definition of Statutory in workplace and facilities management
Established by IWFM, BESA, CIBSE and BSRIA.
Tackling the transition from traditional heating systems
59% lack the necessary information and confidence to switch.
The general election and the construction industry
As PM, Rishi Sunak announces July 4 date for an election.
Eco apprenticeships continue help grow green workforce
A year after being recognised at the King's coronation.
Permitted development rights for agricultural buildings
The changes coming into effect as of May 21, 2024.