The structural longevity and safety of any house depend entirely on the strength of its pillars. During construction, the importance of these pillars cannot be overstated as they bear the weight of the entire building. Baiju Kumar, an experienced mason from the Ghosi block of Jehanabad who has been working in construction and contracting for nearly 10 years, emphasizes that there are four critical factors to keep in mind when constructing pillars. By following these suggestions, you not only protect your home against earthquakes, fires, and other external factors but also ensure that your investment results in a durable structure that stands the test of time.
The Importance of Concrete Covering
When building a pillar, concrete covering is of utmost importance. According to the mason, you must ensure a material thickness of at least 1.5 inches around the entire pillar. It is crucial that this distance remains uniform on all sides. When this is done correctly, the iron rebars of the pillar are not exposed. This serves a vital safety function; if a fire were to occur, this protective layer of concrete shields the internal rebars from the heat, significantly reducing the chances of structural damage to the pillar itself.
Proper Cutting of Rebars
Many people make the mistake of cutting all the rebars to the same length during pillar construction. Baiju Kumar suggests that the rebars should never be cut equally. Always keep one rebar longer and the other shorter. The benefit of this is realized during seismic activity or earthquakes; if all bars are cut at the same level, there is a higher risk of the pillar bending under pressure. Alternating the lengths ensures that the pillar is far less likely to buckle or tilt, providing much-needed stability.
Correct Ring Installation
To prevent the rebars inside the pillar from sticking to each other, they must be securely fastened with rings. When you are tying these rings to the rebars, you must pay attention to the angle. The ring must be fastened at a 180-degree position. When this is achieved, the rebars of the pillar remain perfectly reinforced and cannot shift or move out of place, ensuring the overall integrity of the structure.
Using Column Starters
To ensure a solid base at the very start of the pillar construction, it is essential to use a column starter. Using this tool ensures that the pillar remains perfectly vertical and never leans. It provides a stable foundation for the pillar, ensuring that from the ground up to the roof, the entire column remains strong and balanced throughout the lifespan of the building.
