Practical Functions of Columns in 1-2 Story House Building Structures

In the construction world, columns are a crucial element supporting the building's load. One type of column commonly used in residential homes is the practical column.
Despite their relatively small size, the role of practical columns in maintaining the strength and stability of building structures cannot be underestimated, especially in 1-2 story houses.

What is a Practical Column?
Practical columns are vertical structural elements made of reinforced concrete installed between brick walls at specific intervals (usually every 3 meters).
Their function is not to support the entire building load like main columns, but to prevent the walls from cracking or collapsing due to lateral forces such as wind, earthquakes, or land subsidence.

Practical columns typically measure 10 x 10 cm to 15 x 15 cm, with small-diameter steel reinforcement (usually D8 or D10), and are fastened with stirrups spaced 15–20 cm apart.

The Main Function of Practical Columns in Building Structures
1. Increase Wall Strength and Stiffness
Practical columns help resist horizontal forces acting on walls, preventing the structure from shifting or cracking easily.
With the presence of practical columns, brick walls become stiffer and stronger against pressure from above and from the sides.

2. Preventing Cracks in Walls
One common problem in buildings without practical columns is hairline or diagonal cracks in the walls.
Practical columns function as "braces" that limit wall movement, especially due to temperature changes, vibrations, or foundation settlement.

3. Connecting Walls to the Building Structure
Practical columns also function to tie brick walls to the main structure, such as the sloof (bottom beam) and ring beam (top beam).
Thus, the wall does not stand alone but forms a stronger unit with the overall building structure.

4. Increasing Earthquake Resistance
In 1-2 story houses, the presence of practical columns is crucial for increasing earthquake resistance.
These columns help distribute earthquake forces throughout the structure, thus minimizing the risk of severe damage to the walls.

5. Helping Maintain Building Stability
In addition to strengthening walls, practical columns also help maintain the building's upright and stable shape, especially in buildings with many openings such as windows and doors.

Conclusion
Practical columns play a crucial role in maintaining the stability and safety of one- or two-story house structures.
Although they may seem simple, the installation of these columns must adhere to proper construction standards, including the size of the reinforcement, the spacing between columns, and the connections to the sloof and ring beams.

For best results, use quality concrete and steel materials that meet Indonesian National Standards (SNI).
PT Intisumber Bajasakti (ISBS), a trusted supplier of building and construction materials in Indonesia, provides various needs such as reinforced concrete, ready-to-use practical columns, cement, and other structural equipment.

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