Construction of a taller building in China using concrete pillars with reinforced steel

(Source: See References: Tall building)

Building construction varies according to the type of building and the region it’s being built in. Columns or pillars of brick are preferred in colder countries as they are sturdier with regard to the elements, and tend to keep out the cold more. This also applies to the walls of the building. Preformed concrete blocks are used for inner walls, supporting walls and areas where the larger blocks are more cost effective.

                          
Concrete block                 European brick                   Smaller red brick

(Source: See References)

In most cases, columns or pillars are constructed, and then the spaces in between are filled with blocks, bricks and windows. For larger, taller buildings more pillars are required.

In countries where earthquakes or tremors are common the system of pillars with reinforced steel inside is used as this has been proven to withstand earth movements more effectively.

In two-storey houses, wooden beams and floorboards are often used for the upper floor and roofing as this requires less heavy machinery. This is not practical for the strength needed in taller structures, and the system of ‘Flying Form’ is used. The flying form, or table form, consists of 3 principal components: the adjustable post shoring, manufactured truss forms, and column supported forms. The manufactured forms will conform to high regularity as they are used to construct identical bays in each floor of the high-rise.

The props or post shoring (normally scaffolding) rests on a wood sill, and blocking raised by jacks are installed to support the table. These can be moved horizontally by means of rollers. Column and beam reinforcements are placed and tied where necessary. The forms are then filled with concrete. Once the concrete sets, the forms can be removed and the process repeated on the next floor.

9.1.3 Construction: topping off