What Is Plinth In Architecture?
What Is Plinth In Architecture?
Plinth in architecture is a raised platform or base, usually a rectangular slab of stone, which supports the walls of a building or structure. In classical orders it is the lowest part of the base, while in modern buildings it is typically at ground level.
It can also be used decoratively and traditionally to separate different parts of a room, such as separating interior walls or columns from outer walls. Plinths may also be used to support sculptures, vases and other architectural features.
Uses Of Plinth
The use of a plinth in constructing a house offers numerous benefits, some of which are critical in ensuring the stability, strength and longevity of the structure.
Plinths evenly distribute the weight of columns, acting as a barrier or retaining wall that prevents the dampness of the ground floor from reaching the upper structure of the building. In framed structures, plinth beams are also used as a waterproofing sheet to protect the house from mold, mildew, and other moisture-related damages.
Furthermore, the plinth provides a better aesthetic appeal, gives the building more strength and durability, and prevents cracks from forming when the foundation experiences settlement.
The height of the plinth, normally set around 150-300 mm above the road level, serves as a retaining structure for the compacted soil used to fill the gap between the foundation and the plinth level.
Where Is Plinth Located In A Building?
Plinth is the bottom portion of a building which is generally constructed at ground level and then raised up to accommodate the upper floors. It is usually made from block or brick, and is essential in creating a strong foundation for the building’s walls and columns.
It also provides structural support for the entire structure and helps to prevent moisture damage by keeping water away from the base of the walls. Plinths can be located both inside and outside a building, depending on its design and purpose.
Inside buildings, plinths are typically found along hallway walls or beneath staircases. Outside buildings, plinths are often used to elevate key elements such as porticos or archways away from street level, making them more prominent in a landscape.
What Is The Standard Height Of Plinth?
Plinth height is an important factor in building design and construction, and the most common range is 300-600mm. Generally, a 450mm height is recommended, however for waterlogging prone or important buildings the minimum plinth height should be 600mm to avoid damage.
An additional consideration when determining plinth height is that it should by 1.2 times the floor area of the building at minimum to ensure adequate load bearing and stability.
Is Plinth A Superstructure Or Substructure?
The superstructure elements of a building include walls, columns, beams, doors and windows, which are designed to support the roof structure and architectural features of the building. On the other hand, substructure elements such as foundation and plinth provide the structural strength and stability to carry the load of the entire building.
The foundation is typically buried in the ground and extends below frost depth to ensure no damage occurs due to freezing temperatures.
The plinth is constructed on top of this foundation and provides support for the walls and other structures above. Both foundation and plinth must be structurally sound to safely bear all external forces imposed on them.