Basics in Building Construction

Basics in Building Construction 4(2+2)

Lesson 07 : Walls

Glass Partitions

Glass partition walls are constructed using either glass sheets or hallow blocks.

1. Glass sheet Partition

   In this a wooden frame work is used in which glass sheets are fixed. The wooden frame work consists of a number of horizontal and vertical posts, suitably spaced, to divide the entire area into a number of panels. The glass sheets are kept in position in the panels either by using timber beadings or by putty which is made of linseed oil and whiting chalk. Such partitions are light weight, vermin proof, sound proof and damp proof. However ordinary glass is quite weak and requires frequent replacement. Nowadays, strong varieties of glass, such as wired glass, bullet proof glass and three-ply glass are also available in the market.

2. Hollow blocks

   Hollow glass blocks are translucent units of glass which are light in weight and are available in different sizes and shapes and thickness. They are usually square (14x14cm or 19x19cm) with a normal thickness of 10cm. The jointing edges are painted internally and sanded externally to form a key for mortar. The front and back faces may be either decorative or plain. The front and back faces are sometimes fluted. The glass blocks are usually laid in cement – lime mortar (1:1:4), using fine sand. All joints should be filled carefully. For blocks up to 15cm in height, expanded metal strip reinforcement is placed in every third or fourth course. If the height of the block is more than 25cm, the reinforcement is placed in every course. Provision for expansion should be suitably made along the jambs and head of each panel. Another type of glass blocks are in the form of glass bricks with joggles and end grooves.