Piers
In architecture, the term ‘pier’ can be used interchangeably for several different building elements. In general, it is an upright support for a structure or superstructure, but it can also refer to the sections of load-bearing structural walls between openings and different types of column.
Piers are most commonly made of concrete, masonry or treated timber, and installed into prepared holes or shafts.
Piers can serve a similar purpose to piles, but are not installed by hammers and have the potential, if based on a stable substrate, to support a greater load. Pier shafts have been excavated with widths of more than 1.8 m and depths of more than 30 m , capable of supporting high-rise buildings.
Piers can also be used in foundations as a means of raising a structure from the ground, in particular if the structure is on a slope or near a large body of water. They differ from conventional foundations in that they support the structural load at a number of distinct points. This typically requires less excavation and soil disruption than other types of foundation.
The simplest cross-section of a pier is square or rectangular, although other shapes are common. In medieval architecture, drum piers (circular supports), cruciform piers (cross-shaped), and compound piers (combined with pilasters, columns or shafts) were common architectural elements. Compound piers were often used to form an arcade of arches, meeting the ribs descending from the vaults above.
The lower section of a pier may be widened to better distribute the downward pressure of a particularly large superstructure.
Piers used for supporting bridges are often installed in the form of caissons, which are sunk into position to the bearing stratum by excavating from the interior. For more information, see Caisson.
The term 'pier' may also be used to refer to a marine structure that projects into a body of water, supported by a series of columns, typically allowing docking of marine craft, but also used for pleasure. The open structure of piers allows water to flow underneath, in contrast to more solid wharfs or quays.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Experts from University of Exeter reveal innovative glass blocks which could enable buildings to create their own electricity.
BRE form partnership with software supplier Graitec to drive uptake of BIM.
Ever fancied exploring a unique Stalinist housing project in a Trabant car? This tour could be for you.
Recent legal case ends with a decision of great importance regarding student accommodation.
We could be on the brink of a demand revolution. But will the opportunities be seized?
Estates Professional Services framework
Public sector can save £35 million on estates through new CCS framework.
Industrial Energy Efficiency Accelerator
BSRIA promote the government's new strategy to help strengthen the global competitiveness of British industry.
Have a read of our introductory guide to briefing documents for building design.
Have a look at Riga's most striking new building, the National Library of Latvia.
NEC contracts and collaborative working
It's an exciting time for NEC users, but it can only succeed with openness and inclusivity between clients and contractors.
New designs revealed for Qatar World Cup 2022 stadium, based on traditional Arab headwear.
The results of the sixth large-scale cladding tests have been published - another failure.