The primary function of a wall is to enclose or divide space. Piers are usually in the form of a thick section of wall, placed at intervals along the wall to carry concentrated vertical loads or provide lateral support to the wall. These walls can be made of different materials such as brick or stone masonry, plain concrete and reinforced masonry.
A load-bearing wall should satisfy the following requirements:
- Stability: It should be stable against overturning by lateral forces and buckling caused by excessive slenderness.
- Weather Resistance: All the external walls whether load bearing or panel constructions should provide adequate resistance to rain, sun and wind.
- Fire Resistance: The walls should offer sufficient resistance to fire as they behave as vertical barriers for spread of fire in the horizontal direction.
- Heat Insulation: It should be possible for walls to attain insulation against heat.
- Sound Insulation: The walls should be made of such materials and by such technique so as to insulate the building against sound.
- Privacy and Security: The walls should provide sufficient privacy and afford security against theft.
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