Glass Types in Construction: Properties, Uses & IS Specifications

 

Types of Glass and Properties (As per Indian Standards)

Indian Standards (BIS – Bureau of Indian Standards) specify requirements for different types of glass used in building and construction. Major relevant codes are:

• IS 2835:1987 –                                       Flat Transparent Sheet Glass
• IS 14900:2000 –                                     Transparent Float Glass
• IS 2553 (Part 1 & 2):1990 –                 Safety Glass
• IS 3548:1988 –                                       Glazing in Buildings (Safety Requirements)
• IS 16982:2018 –                                      Insulating Glass Units
• IS 16231:2013 –                                      Solar Control Glass
• IS 14286:1995 –                                      Wired Glass

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1. Sheet Glass (IS 2835:1987)

• Description: Flat, transparent glass made by drawing or rolling.
• Properties:
  • Thickness: 2 mm to 12 mm
  • Light transmission: 80–90% (depending on thickness)
  • Used in windows, partitions, glazing.

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2. Float Glass (IS 14900:2000

• Description: Clear, distortion-free glass manufactured by float process.
• Properties:
  • Thickness: 2 mm to 19 mm
  • High optical clarity
  • Smooth, flat surfaces
  • Can be toughened, laminated, coated.

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3. Toughened / Tempered Safety Glass (IS 2553 Part 1:1990)

Description: Heat-treated float glass with 4–5 times higher strength than ordinary glass.

• Properties:
  • Breaks into small blunt pieces (safety feature)
  • Thickness: 4 mm to 19 mm
  • Heat resistant (250–300 °C)
  • Used in doors, facades, shower cubicles, railings.

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4. Laminated Safety Glass (IS 2553 Part 2:1990)

• Description: Two or more layers of glass bonded with PVB (polyvinyl butyral) interlayer.
• Properties:
  • Holds together when shattered
  • Sound insulation (30–40 dB reduction)
  • UV radiation control (blocks 90% UV)
  • Used in skylights, car windshields, bulletproof glass.

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5. Wired Glass (IS 14286:1995)

• Description: Glass with wire mesh embedded.
• Properties:
  • Fire-resistant (withstands 45–60 minutes of fire)
  • Prevents falling of shards after breakage
  • Used in fire doors, industrial buildings.

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6. Insulating Glass Units (IGU) (IS 16982:2018)

• Description: Double or triple glass panes separated by dehydrated air/gas.
• Properties:
  • Thermal insulation (U-value 1.1–2.5 W/m²K)
  • Sound insulation
  • Prevents condensation
  • Used in high-rise buildings, energy-efficient facades.

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7. Solar Control Glass (IS 16231:2013)

• Description: Glass with special coatings or tint to reduce solar heat gain.
• Properties:
  • Reduces glare
  • Controls UV & infrared radiation
  • Improves energy efficiency
  • Used in green buildings, facades.

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8. Frosted / Obscure Glass (As per IS 2835 tolerances)

• Description: Glass surface treated by sandblasting or acid etching.
• Properties:
  • Diffuses light
  • Provides privacy while allowing illumination
  • Used in bathrooms, office partitions.

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9. Reflective Glass (Coated Glass as per IS 16231)

• Description: Float glass coated with metallic oxide.
• Properties:
  • Reflects solar radiation
  • Improves aesthetics
  • Reduces heat ingress
  • Used in commercial building facades.

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10. Coloured / Tinted Glass (IS 14900:2000 – Float Glass, tinted types)

• Description: Float glass with added metal oxides.
• Properties:
  • Absorbs solar radiation
  • Reduces glare
  • Enhances appearance
  • Used in windows, facades, decorative applications.

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 *Measuring Tape, Conversion & Land Measurement Guide

*

1) Measuring Tape Specifications

1. Width of tape → 12 mm, 16 mm, 19 mm, 25 mm, 30 mm.

   • Narrow tapes (12–16 mm) = carpentry, tailoring.
   • Wide tapes (19–30 mm) = construction, survey, site use.

2. Length of tape → 2 m, 3 m, 5 m, 7.5 m, 10 m, 15 m, 30 m, 50 m, 100 m.

   • Pocket tape = 2–5 m.
   • Survey tape = 30–100 m.

3. Material → Steel (strong, accurate), Fiberglass (rust-free), Cloth (soft).

4. Graduations → Metric (mm, cm, m), Imperial (inch, feet, yard), or both (dual scale).

5. Accuracy class →

   • Class I = High accuracy.
   • Class II = Normal construction.
   • Class III = General use.

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2)Basic Conversions (International Units)

• 1 inch = 25.4 mm.

1 foot = 12 inch = 304.8 mm = 0.3048 m.

• 1 meter = 100 cm = 1000 mm = 39.37 inch = 3.2808 feet.

• 1 yard = 3 feet = 36 inch = 0.9144 m.

1 acre = 43,560 sq ft = 4047 sq m = 4840 sq yd = 0.4047 hectare.

1 soot (local) ≈ 3 mm

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3)Examples of Conversions

• 48 inch = 4 feet.
• 1 meter = 3.281 feet = 39.37 inch.
• 3 meter = 9 feet 10 inch ≈ 3.28 yard.
• 5 meter = 16 feet 5 inch ≈ 5.47 yard ≈ 1667 soot.
• 1 acre = square plot of ~208.7 ft × 208.7 ft.

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4) Calibration of Tape

1. Check zero point → hook must slide 1–2 mm.
2. Compare with standard steel scale at 0, 100, 500, 1000 mm.
3. Allowable error:
   • Up to 5 m = ±0.5 mm.
   • Up to 10 m = ±1.0 mm.
   • Up to 20 m = ±1.5 mm.
4. Note → steel expands in heat, so precision requires temperature consideration.

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5) Indian Land Measurement Units

🔹 Guntha

• 1 Guntha = 1089 sq ft = 101.17 sq m.
• 40 Guntha = 1 Acre.

🔹 Cent

• 1 Cent = 435.6 sq ft = 40.47 sq m.
• 100 Cent = 1 Acre.

🔹 Bigha (varies by state)In UP/Bihar: 1 Bigha ≈ 27,000 sq ft.

• In Assam: 1 Bigha ≈ 14,400 sq ft.
• In Gujarat: 1 Bigha ≈ 17,424 sq ft.

🔹 Katha (varies by state)

• Bihar: 1 Katha = 1361 sq ft.
• Assam: 1 Katha = 2880 sq ft.
• Bengal: 1 Katha = 720 sq ft.

🔹 Gaj (Square Yard)

• 1 Gaj = 1 sq yd = 9 sq ft = 0.836 sq m.
• 1 Gajam (used in Telangana/Andhra) = 9 sq ft.

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6) Quick Site Notes

• For building work: use feet, inch, meter, soot.
• For land survey: use yard, acre, guntha, cent, gaj.
• For record keeping: always convert to sq m (standard).

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thank you,🙏

 

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* Types of Slab Reinforcement – Complete Guide

Slabs are flat structural elements that transfer loads to beams, columns, or walls. To resist bending, shear, temperature, and shrinkage stresses, reinforcement steel (rebars/mesh) is provided.

Slabs are mainly divided into One-Way and Two-Way slabs, depending on how they transfer loads.

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* One-Way Slab Reinforcement

📖 Definition:

A one-way slab is a type of slab in which loads are carried mainly in one direction (short span).
👉 Condition: Longer span (Ly) ≥ 2 × Shorter span (Lx).

* Characteristics:

• Load carried in short span only.
• Main reinforcement → placed along short span (Lx).
• Distribution reinforcement → along long span (Ly).
• Economical span: 3.5–4.5 m.

* Types of One-Way Slabs:

      1)  Simply Supported One-Way Slab

• Supported on two opposite sides.
• Loads carried in one direction.
• Used in verandahs, corridors.

               2) Continuous One-Way Slab

• Supported over multiple beams/walls.
• Extra top steel at supports for negative moments.
• Common in corridors, sheds.

              3)Cantilever One-Way Slab

• Supported only on one side, free on the other.
• Main steel at top face.
• Example: Balconies, sunshades.

                4)Overhanging One-Way Slab

1. • Slab extending beyond the support line.
   • Acts like a cantilever beyond support.
   • Requires extra top reinforcement.

             * Reinforcement Rules (IS 456:2000):

•           Min. steel: 0.12% (HYSD) or 0.15% (Mild steel).
•          Spacing:
  • Main bars ≤ 3d or 300 mm.
  • Distribution bars ≤ 5d or 450 mm.

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* 2. Two-Way Slab Reinforcement

📖 Definition:

A two-way slab is a slab in which loads are carried in both directions (short span & long span).
👉 Condition: Ly/Lx ≤ 2.

* Characteristics:

• Load transferred in both directions.
• Main reinforcement in both spans.
• Better crack control and economy in steel.
• Common in residential & commercial buildings.

* Types of Two-Way Slabs:

Simply Supported Two-Way Slab

• Supported on all four sides.
• Carries loads in both directions.

1. Continuous Two-Way Slab

• Extends over multiple supports.
• Extra top reinforcement at supports.

3 .Restrained (Fixed) Two-Way Slab

• Edges are fixed into beams/walls.
• Hogging moments resisted at edges.

* 4. Two-Way Slab with Torsional Reinforcement

• At corners where supports prevent free lifting.
• Diagonal corner bars provided as per IS 456.

* Special Types of Two-Way Slabs:

• Flat Slab → Slab directly supported on columns, no beams.
• Waffle (Ribbed) Slab → Grid-like system, economical for long spans.
• Domes / Folded Plates → Special architectural forms.

* Reinforcement Rules (IS 456:2000):

• Min. steel: 0.12% (HYSD) or 0.15% (Mild steel).
• Spacing:
  • Main bars ≤ 3d or 300 mm.
  • Distribution bars ≤ 5d or 450 mm.
• Corner reinforcement: Required if corners are restrained.

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* 3. Comparison – One-Way vs Two-Way Slab

Feature	One-Way Slab	Two-Way Slab
Load transfer	Only in short span	In both directions
Condition	Ly ≥ 2 × Lx	Ly/Lx ≤ 2
Main reinforcement	Short span only	Both spans
Distribution steel	Long span	Both directions
Typical span	3.5 – 4.5 m	4 – 6 m or more
Examples	Verandahs, balconies, corridors	Residential floors, commercial buildings, tanks

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✅ In short:

• One-Way Slab → Steel in one direction, used in corridors, balconies, verandahs.
• Two-Way Slab → Steel in both directions, used in building floors & larger spans.

* Indian Standard References for Slab Reinforcement

* 1. IS 456:2000 – Plain and Reinforced Concrete – Code of Practice

This is the main code for slab design & reinforcement in India.

Clause 22.2 → Effective span of slab.

Clause 23.2 → Slab thickness & deflection control.

Clause 26.5.2.1 → Minimum reinforcement (0.12% for HYSD, 0.15% for Mild steel).

Clause 26.5.2.2 → Maximum spacing of bars:

Main reinforcement ≤ 3 × effective depth (d) or 300 mm.

Distribution reinforcement ≤ 5 × effective depth (d) or 450 mm.

Clause 27.3 → Distribution reinforcement in slabs.

Clause 27.4 → Torsional reinforcement at corners of two-way slabs.

🔹 2. IS 875 (Part 1 & 2) – Code of Practice for Design Loads

Part 1 (Dead Loads) → Unit weights of materials.

Part 2 (Imposed Loads) → Live loads for residential, commercial, and industrial floors.

👉 Used to calculate slab load before designing reinforcement.

🔹 3. IS 1343:2012 – Prestressed Concrete Code

Reference for prestressed slabs (not RCC).

Useful if slab is prestressed instead of reinforced.

🔹 4. IS 3370 (Part 1 & 2): 2009 – Concrete Structures for Storage of Liquids

For water tanks (two-way slab action in base and roof slabs).

✅ Summary

IS 456:2000 → Main code for one-way & two-way slab reinforcement (design, detailing, spacing, torsion).

IS 875 → For calculating dead load & live load on slabs.

IS 1343 → For prestressed slabs.

IS 3370 → For liquid-retaining slab structures.

​What are the Best Door Locks and Hinges for Your Home?

1️⃣ Types of Doors (by Material & Construction)

1) Solid Timber Door – Classic wooden door, strong and premium; used for main entrances and interiors.

A solid timber door is a door made entirely from solid wood, often from a single piece or multiple pieces joined together with traditional joinery techniques. It's distinct from engineered or hollow-core doors which use composite materials.

​Key Specifications:

• ​Material: 100% natural wood. Common species include hardwoods like oak, mahogany, and teak for exterior doors, and softwoods like pine or fir for interior ones.

• ​Construction: Typically built with a frame-and-panel c1onstruction to prevent warping and cracking. This involves vertical stiles and horizontal rails that hold the door panels.

• ​Aesthetics: Known for its rich, natural beauty, warmth, and texture. Can be stained or painted to match any decor.

• ​Durability: Highly durable, strong, and resistant to dents and scratches.

• ​Insulation: Offers excellent natural thermal and acoustic insulation, helping to reduce noise and maintain indoor temperature.

• ​Weight: Heavier than hollow-core or PVC doors, which contributes to their strength and soundproofing but can make installation more complex.
• ​Maintenance: Requires regular maintenance (sealing, painting, or staining) to protect the wood from moisture, sunlight, and pests.

• ​Customization: Can be custom-crafted in almost any shape, size, or style.

2) Flush Door – Flat, smooth face with plywood/MDF core; widely used for bedrooms and interiors.

          Key Features:

• ​Construction: It consists of a core material (hollow, solid, or cellular) sandwiched between two thin sheets of wood veneer, laminate, or plywood.
• ​Hollow Core: The most common type, with a honeycomb interior. It is lightweight, affordable, and best for interior use where security and sound insulation are not critical.
• ​Solid Core: Contains a dense interior (like particleboard). It is heavy, durable, and provides excellent sound and thermal insulation, making it ideal for exterior doors, bedrooms, and offices.
• ​Appearance: Its sleek, unpaneled surface is easy to clean and maintain, and it seamlessly blends into contemporary spaces.

3) Panel Door – Frame with inset wood/glass/MDF panels; decorative, traditional stylKey * * *  *     *  Specifications:

• ​Construction: The door is built from a frame of vertical pieces (stiles) and horizontal pieces (rails). Within this frame, thin panels are fitted into grooves, allowing them to "float" and expand/contract with changes in humidity without cracking the door.

• ​Materials: Traditionally made from solid wood (hardwood or softwood), modern panel doors are also available in engineered wood (MDF), fiberglass, or steel, often with a wood veneer to mimic a classic look.
• ​Panel Count: Panel doors are most commonly identified by the number of panels they contain (e.g., 2-panel, 4-panel, 6-panel). The most popular residential style is the classic 6-panel door.

• ​Panel Style: The panels can be either flat (recessed below the frame) for a clean, modern "Shaker" look or raised (thicker in the center) for a more traditional, formal appearance.

• ​Use: Panel doors are highly versatile and are used for both interior and exterior applications. They offer superior strength, durability, and a classic aesthetic compared to a flat, flush door.

         4)  MDF / door 

     ​MDF is made by breaking down wood residuals into fine fibers, which are then combined with wax        and a resin binder. This mixture is formed into a panel using high temperature and pressure, creating  a dense, smooth, and uniform sheet.    

​Key Specifications for Doors:

• ​Composition: Primarily wood fibers and resin. This lack of a natural grain means the material is consistent throughout, with no knots, voids, or splits.

• ​Aesthetics: The smooth, uniform surface is ideal for painting, providing a flawless finish without the visible grain of natural wood. It can also be routed or molded into various shapes for panel doors.

• ​Stability: Unlike solid wood, MDF is highly stable and does not expand or contract significantly with changes in temperature and humidity, which prevents warping and cracking.

• ​Durability: It is denser and stronger than particleboard. However, it is not as strong as solid wood and can be susceptible to damage from water if not properly sealed. It also doesn't hold screws as well as solid wood.

• ​Cost: It is generally more affordable than solid wood.

5) FRP Door – Fiber Reinforced Plastic; waterproof, termite-proof, lightweight; best for bathrooms. entrance door and other.

        Key Details

• ​What it is: A door made from a polymer resin reinforced with glass fibers (fiberglass). This composite structure makes it incredibly strong and stable.
• ​Core Material: The core is often filled with insulating material like polyurethane foam, which provides thermal and sound insulation.
• ​Appearance: They can be manufactured to look like other materials, including a convincing wood grain texture, a smooth painted finish, or other decorative patterns.

        ​Main Advantages

• ​Exceptional Durability: Highly resistant to dents, scratches, warping, cracking, and splitting. It can withstand harsh weather without deteriorating.
• ​Waterproof and Moisture Resistant: Unlike wood, it won't swell, rot, or warp in humid or wet conditions. This makes it perfect for bathrooms, coastal areas, and commercial facilities with rigorous cleaning.
• ​Low Maintenance: FRP doors don't need frequent painting or staining. They are easy to clean with simple soap and water.
• ​Pest and Chemical Resistant: They are immune to termites and other pests and resist damage from chemicals.
• ​Energy Efficient: The insulating core helps maintain indoor temperatures, which can lead to lower energy bills.

      ​Common Uses

       ​FRP doors are ideal for places where durability, hygiene, and low maintenance are crucial. This                 includes:

• ​Homes (especially for entry doors and bathroom doors)
• ​Hospitals and laboratories
• ​Food processing plants
• ​Pharmaceutical facilities
• ​Schools and industrial buildings

6)  PVC Door – Economical, lightweight plastic door; common in bathrooms and rental units.

          uPVC Door – Rigid PVC witA PVC door is a type of door made from Polyvinyl Chloride, a durable plastic polymer. 

They are a popular and cost-effective alternative to traditional doors made of wood or metal.

1. ​Here are the key details:

   • ​Material: Made from rigid PVC, often referred to as uPVC (unplasticized polyvinyl chloride). This material is lightweight yet strong.
   • ​Durability: PVC doors are highly resistant to moisture, rot, rust, and pests like termites. They do not warp or swell in humid conditions.
   • ​Low Maintenance: They are easy to clean with just soap and water and don't require painting or staining.
   • ​Insulation: PVC has good thermal and acoustic insulation properties, which can help with energy efficiency and soundproofing.
   • ​Common Uses: Because of their resistance to moisture, they are frequently used for bathrooms and other interior spaces. They are also used for exterior doors due to their durability and weather resistance.
2.  reinforcement; corrosion-free, strong; used in bathrooms and balconies.

7)  Aluminium Door – Slim, rust-proof frames with panels or glass; used in balconies and offices.

• Durable and Strong: Aluminum is a naturally strong and resilient material. It resists warping, cracking, and rust, making it highly durable and long-lasting.
• ​Lightweight: Despite its strength, aluminum is a very lightweight material, which makes the doors easy to operate and install.
• ​Low Maintenance: Aluminum doors don't require painting, staining, or special treatments. They are resistant to corrosion and simply need an occasional wipe to keep them clean.
• ​Versatile Design: The material's strength allows for very thin frames (known as "slim sightlines"), which can hold large glass panels. This makes them ideal for modern, minimalist designs and for maximizing natural light.
• ​Eco-Friendly: Aluminum is 100% recyclable, making it an environmentally sustainable choice.

8) Steel / Metal Door – Very strong, fire-resistant options; used for main security and industrial areas.

       Key Characteristics

• ​Security: Steel doors are considered the strongest and most secure type of door, offering exceptional resistance to forced entry, impacts, and fire. They are often used in high-security commercial and industrial settings.

• ​Durability: Both steel and other metal doors are highly durable and resistant to warping, cracking, and insect damage. They hold up well in harsh weather conditions.

• ​Insulation: Many steel and metal doors have an insulated core (such as polyurethane or polystyrene foam), which provides good thermal and acoustic insulation, making them energy efficient.

• ​Maintenance: They are generally low-maintenance, requiring only a protective coating to prevent rust, which is often factory-applied.

• ​Weight: Steel doors are heavier than other types, which contributes to their strength but can make installation more difficult. Doors made from lighter metals like aluminum are easier to handle.

• ​Versatility: While often associated with a plain, industrial look, modern steel and metal doors come in a variety of designs, colors, and textures, including faux wood grain, to suit different aesthetic needs.

9)   Glass Door – Toughened/laminated safety glass; stylish, used in offices or interiors. 

• ​Toughened Glass: This glass is heat-treated to make it up to five times stronger than regular glass. If it breaks, it shatters into small, relatively harmless granular pieces, reducing the risk of injury.
• ​Laminated Glass: This consists of two or more layers of glass bonded together with an interlayer (usually PVB). If broken, the glass fragments stick to the interlayer, holding the pane together and preventing large, sharp pieces from scattering.

​These safety features, combined with their aesthetic appeal, make them ideal for:

• ​Offices: Creating bright, open-plan environments and stylish meeting rooms.
• ​Interiors: Enhancing residential spaces with natural light and a feeling of spaciousness.

10) Composite / Engineered Door – Hybrid with plywood + MDF + veneers; stable and premium.

Composite, or engineered, doors are a premium option that combines different materials for improved stability and performance. Unlike solid wood doors, which can warp or crack, engineered doors are built with layers of plywood and medium-density fiberboard (MDF) with a wood veneer finish.

​This hybrid construction provides a strong, stable core that resists seasonal changes and moisture, resulting in a door that is less likely to swell or shrink. The final wood veneer layer gives it the beautiful, high-end appearance of a solid wood door.

11)  Fire-Rated Door – Designed to resist fire; mandatory in staircases and shafts.

Fire-rated doors are crucial safety components, specifically engineered to withstand fire for a specified period. They are often mandatory in commercial buildings, multi-story residences, and public spaces, especially for exits leading to staircases, elevator shafts, and other crucial escape routes. Their primary function is to compartmentalize a fire, preventing its spread and protecting occupants during an evacuation.

12)  Smart Door – Doors fitted with digital/smart locks; used in modern residences.

A smart door is a modern residential door that is integrated with a digital or smart lock. These locks offer a keyless entry experience using features like keypads, fingerprint readers, or smartphone control. They provide enhanced security, convenience, and remote access, making them a popular feature in contemporary homes.

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 ⇉  Standard Door Sizes (as per IS codes)

• Main Door → Width 900–1100 mm, Height 2100–2400 mm
• Bedroom Door → Width 800–1000 mm, Height 2100 mm
• Toilet/Bathroom Door → Width 700–800 mm, Height 2000–2100 mm

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⇉  Door Frames (Chowkhats)

1. Wooden Frame – Teak, Sal, Hardwood; common size 100 × 60 mm.
2. FRP Frame – Waterproof and termite-proof; low maintenance.
3. Steel Frame – Strong, durable, fire-rated use.
4. uPVC Frame – Corrosion-free, lightweight, good for balconies/toilets.

* Fasteners for Frames → Anchor bolts M10 × 100 mm or M12 × 100 mm.
* Number per Frame → 6–8 (3 each side, 2 top if needed).

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⇉   Door Shutter Thickness

• Wooden / Flush → 30–35 mm
• FRP / PVC → 25–30 mm

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⇉   Laminate Finishes (IS 2046)

1. Matte – Non-reflective, elegant, hides scratches.
2. Glossy – Shiny, modern, easy to clean.
3. Textured – Feels like wood/stone; premium look.
4. PVC / Membrane – Seamless plastic foil; modular use.
5. Thickness – 0.7 mm to 1.5 mm (1.5 mm+ for main doors).

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 ⇉  Hinges

1. Butt Hinge – Standard for most doors.
2. Concealed Hinge – Hidden when door closed; premium look.
3. Spring Hinge – Auto-closing.
4. Parliament Hinge – Allows wide 180° opening.

📏 Sizes → 75 mm, 100 mm, 125 mm (3 per door, 4 for heavy doors).

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 ⇉  Door Fittings

• Tower Bolt → 100–300 mm, used for internal security.
• Door Stopper → Floor, wall, or magnetic type.
• Fasteners → Anchor bolts M10 × 100 mm, 6–8 per frame.
• Screws → 25–40 mm stainless steel screws for hinges/locks.

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⇉   Locks

1. Padlock – Portable, extra security.
2. Deadbolt – Strong, used for main doors.
3. Mortise Lock – Installed inside door; main/bedroom use.
4. Cylindrical Lock – Key outside, knob inside; bedroom use.
5. Knob Lock – Lock inside knob; bathrooms/toilets.
6. Lever Handle Lock – Easy to operate; bedrooms/interiors.
7. Rim Lock – Surface mounted; quick fix.
8. Smart Lock – Fingerprint, PIN, RFID, mobile app; main door use.

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 ⇉  Recommended Combinations (Residential Projects)

• Main Door → Wooden/FRP/Steel door, Mortise or Smart lock, 4 hinges, 8 fasteners.
• Bedroom Door → Flush/MDF, Cylindrical or Mortise lock, 3 hinges, 6 fasteners.
• Toilet/Bathroom Door → FRP/PVC, Knob lock or simple deadbolt, 3 hinges, 6 fasteners.

“How to Choose the Right Concrete Bonding Agent – Simple Guide”

 

 Concrete Bonding Agents – Types, Uses, and specifications

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* Introduction

In construction, one common problem is that new concrete does not naturally bond with old concrete. To solve this, engineers use a Concrete Bonding Agent, which acts like glue and ensures strong adhesion between layers. This makes repairs, overlays, and extensions more durable.

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*  What is a Concrete Bonding Agent?

A bonding agent is a chemical (liquid or powder) used to make old concrete stick to new concrete.

Without it, the new concrete layer may peel off because concrete does not naturally bond well once it is hardened.

* Why Use a Bonding Agent?

• To repair damaged surfaces.
• For plastering and floor topping over old slabs.
• To avoid cracks or separation between old and new layers.
• To increase strength, durability, and waterproofing.

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* How to Apply (Easy Steps)

1. Clean the old surface – remove dust, grease, and loose particles.
2. Apply the bonding agent with a brush, roller, or spray.
3. Wait until tacky – don’t let it dry completely.
4. Place the new concrete or mortar.
5. Cure properly for long-lasting bonding.

* Tip: Think of it like Fevicol (glue) for concrete – without it, the new layer won’t stick properly.

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*  Types of Concrete Bonding Agents

1. PVA (Polyvinyl Acetate) Based

• Properties: Economical, water-based, good for plaster and small repairs, not suitable for wet areas.
• Specifications:
  • Solid content: 40–50%
  • Coverage: 4–6 m²/liter
  • Drying time: 30–60 minutes

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2. Acrylic / SBR (Styrene-Butadiene Rubber) Latex Based

• Properties: Strong, flexible, waterproof, reduces shrinkage, ideal for patching and flooring.
• Specifications:
  • Solid content: 40–50%
  • Coverage: 5–8 m²/liter
  • Can be mixed into mortar/concrete for improved performance

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3. Epoxy Based

• Properties: High bond strength, chemical and water resistant, used for RCC joints and structural repairs.
• Specifications:
  • Two-component (resin + hardener)
  • Coverage: 2–3 m²/kg
  • Pot life: 30–45 minutes
  • Compressive strength: >70 N/mm²

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*  Comparison Table

Type	Bond Strength	Water Resistance	Cost	Best For
PVA	Low–Medium	Low	Affordable	Small repairs, plaster
Acrylic/SBR	Medium–High	Good	Moderate	Flooring, patching
Epoxy	Very High	Excellent	Expensive	Structural repairs

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*  Conclusion

Choosing the right bonding agent depends on your project:

• PVA → for small, dry repairs.
• Acrylic/SBR → best all-rounder, waterproof and durable.
• Epoxy → for heavy-duty structural works.

With the right bonding agent, your old and new concrete layers bond strongly, ensuring long life and durability.

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* FAQs on Concrete Bonding Agents

Q1: What is the main purpose of a concrete bonding agent?
Ans- To make old and new concrete surfaces bond strongly, preventing cracks and separation.

Q2: Which bonding agent is best for waterproofing?
Ans-Acrylic/SBR based agents are the best choice as they provide flexibility and water resistance.

Q3: Can I use PVA bonding agent for outdoor concrete repairs?
Ans-Not recommended – PVA is not durable in wet or external conditions.

Q4: Why is epoxy bonding agent expensive?
Ans- Because it provides very high strength and chemical resistance, making it suitable for structural works.

Q5: How do I choose the right bonding agent?
Ans- Select based on repair type: PVA for small repairs, Acrylic/SBR for general waterproof works, Epoxy for structural and heavy-duty applications.