What Is Parapet Wall And Their Types

Introduction of Parapet Wall

A parapet is a wall built over the edge of a roof, terrace, balcony, walkway, or other structure. The construction of parapet walls can usually be seen on buildings, bridges, and roads.

Parapet walls are made in almost every building. The need for parapet walls is usually in a low-rise building, a high-rise building, or a normal building. Because mostly where there will be slabs, the terrace needs protection.

Initially, the King’s parapet wall was used to protect buildings from military attacks, but today it is primarily used as a guard rail.

In this article, for this type of construction, the Parapet wall, types of parapet walls, and Construction of Parapet walls, etc., are discussed.

What Is Parapet Wall?

The parapet wall serves as part of the building. A parapet wall is a low and thin wall built on the edges of the roof, terrace, walkway, balcony, etc.

A parapet wall is essential to protect the safety of immigrants above the roof of the building.

Parapet walls help to enhance the aesthetic appearance of the building from the outside. It has different types according to the construction effect of the parapet wall, which the architect uses in the structure for aesthetic purposes.

According to design, parapet walls are usually made of glass, reinforced cement concrete (RCC), brick masonry, and steel.

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Need of Parapet Wall

Our house or building has its own terrace. Used for various purposes such as walking, sitting and recreational activities, etc. In the absence of a parapet wall, height can lead to accidents such as human falls.

Thus the parapet wall at the edge of the roof is of great importance to provide safety to the occupants on the terrace of the building and to ensure the ending of the roof.

In buildings, it is also necessary to block the interior space of the terrace from the building wisely and cover and protect the space. Using parapet walls ensures the safety of the occupants of the building.

Uses of Parapet Wall

The various uses of parapet walls are described below,

A parapet wall is used to hide tools, stored materials, machinery, equipment, devices, etc., on the roof.
Parapet walls help to enhance the beauty of construction.
To provide those vehicles safely on the bridge and prevents descending from the bridge. In the case of bridges are specially used for the purpose of the safety of the people.
The parapet wall provides safety to human beings on the roof and prevents accidents like falling from the roof for any reason.
It prevents the entry of dust particles on the roof.
It helps to reduce the wind load on the roof.

Height of Parapet Walls

The height of the parapet wall is important in the construction of parapet walls. The parapet wall is usually kept at a minimum height of 3 feet.

Thickness of Parapet walls

The parapet wall is usually kept to a minimum thickness of 6 inches. In a high-rise building, the parapet wall of RCC should have a thickness of 6 inches.

Types of Parapet Wall

The different types of parapet walls, depending on appearance and functions, are as follows.

The types of parapet walls, depending on the design, are as follows

Plain Parapet Walls
Perforated Parapet Walls
Embattled Parapet Walls
Paneled Parapet Walls

Depending on the shape and function, the type of parapet walls is as follows,

Flat Parapet Walls
Curved Parapet Walls
Stepped Parapet Walls
Sloped Parapet Walls
Bridge Parapet Walls

1. Plain Parapet Walls

The construction of the plain parapet is very simple and easy, and its repair work requires less skill.

The plain parapet wall is formed from the masonry wall, which is the vertical extension of the wall at the roof’s edge. It is used as a common type of parapet wall, which is usually provided for roofing safety purposes.

The top part of some plain parapets is designed like coping to be able to withstand the resistance of structural loads. This coping enhances the appearance of the plain parapet.

2. Perforated Parapet Walls

Perforated parapets have a more aesthetic appearance than plain parapets. It gives an aesthetic look and feels through the pattern of holes in it.

It uses perfection, such as circles, trefoils, flower shapes, etc., designed to decorate the parapet.

Various precast materials are used in this type of parapet. Different sizes of precast patterns are available in the market. This precast pattern is constructed in the parapet wall.

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3. Embattled Parapet Walls

In the old days, embattled parapet wall was mostly used on the roofs of forts and palaces. Thus, the embattled parapet wall is called the castle parapet because it was used in forts in ancient times.

This type of parapet is done aesthetically by giving different shapes to the walls. This type of parapet is used to improve the beauty of the constitution.

The parapet wall is provided with a lower and higher part, respectively. In ancient times the purpose of such construction was to shoot arrows at enemies. And as important in defense of the fort.

4. Paneled Parapet Walls

The wall of paneled parapet wall is similar to the oldest wall and plain parapet wall type. The only special feature is the addition of decorative panels to the outside of the display.

Different shapes can be created for decoration in panels. But no holes are placed in this type of parapet.

Nowadays, the use of this type of parapet, in general, is very prevalent because it gives an expensive look to the building and does not cost much time.

Special care is not required in the construction of this type of parapet. However, special care is taken in designing the hole, like the circle, or square, in this type of parapet. Thus, it gives a decorative appearance.

5. Flat Parapet Walls

The use of flat parapet walls is very common and widely used in general buildings. Flat parapet walls are constructed as barriers in general residential units and industrial buildings, and flat roof structures.

A little slope is provided in the flat parapet walls. Nowadays, there are various new designs and technologies in the construction of modern buildings.

Due to this, the design of fiberglass parapet walls and steel railings with parapet-walled glass gives attractive effects in buildings.

6. Curved Parapet Walls

Curved parapet walls are commonly known as arch parapet walls. In addition, curved parapet walls are used for flat and sloping roofs.

Curved parapet walls create a design by increasing the height of the building. In addition, curved parapet walls help give the structure a stylish and attractive look.

7. Stepped Parapet Walls

This type of parapet wall is commonly used for sloping roof structures. The construction of this type of parapet is designed in the shape of a step, like a ladder.

Stepped parapet walls are used for decorative purposes on sloping ceilings. From which the roof structure of the building looks flat type.

It helps to make the front elevation of the building attractive. In addition, this type of parapet wall design can hide slopping curbs.

8. Sloped Parapet Walls

These types of parapet walls are commonly used for sloped roof structures. Used for construction such as industrial and truss buildings.

These parapet walls help drain rainwater in one place.

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9. Bridge Parapet Walls

To provide those vehicles safely on the bridge and prevents descending from the bridge. In the case of bridges are specially used for the purpose of the safety of the people.

The construction of the bridge parapet wall is made from different materials. But it typically uses solid or framed material. In addition, materials such as structural steel, aluminum, wood, and reinforced concrete can be used.

According to European standards, the parapet wall is defined as a “vehicle restraint system” or “pedestrian restraint system.”

Importance Notes for Parapet Wall Construction

The following are some important points to keep in mind when constructing parapet walls,

The height of the parapet wall in the building should normally be 3 feet.
The thickness of the parapet wall in the building should normally be 6 inches.
Plaster should be applied on both sides of the parapet wall to sustain it for a long time.
Proper proportions of cement and sand should properly seal the joint between the roof and the parapet wall.
Parapet walls should be free of the plumbing system and electrical wiring.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Purpose of a Parapet Wall?

Parapet walls primarily serve as safety features to prevent falls from roofs, balconies, terraces, and bridges. They also contribute to the aesthetic appearance of a building.

What Are the Different Types of Parapet Walls Based on Design?

The types include plain parapet walls, perforated parapet walls with decorative patterns, embattled parapet walls historically used for defense, and paneled parapet walls with added decorative panels.

How Are Parapet Walls Constructed?

Parapet walls are typically constructed using materials like reinforced cement concrete (RCC), brick masonry, glass, or steel. They are built on the edges of roofs or elevated structures with a minimum height and thickness for safety.

What Are the Uses of Parapet Walls?

Parapet walls are used to prevent falls, enhance building aesthetics, hide equipment or tools on roofs, block dust entry, reduce wind loads, and provide safety for vehicles and pedestrians on bridges.

Are There Specific Guidelines for Parapet Wall Construction?

Yes, guidelines include maintaining a minimum height and thickness, applying plaster on both sides, sealing joints properly, and ensuring parapet walls are clear of plumbing and electrical elements.