When you start learning about building construction, one of the most important topics to understand is the types of columns in building. A column is a vertical structural element designed to transfer loads from the slab, beam, or roof down to the foundation. Knowing different column types helps beginners and civil engineering students understand how buildings remain stable and strong. In this complete guide, we will explain all major column types, their uses, advantages, and common applications in simple terms.
What is a Column in Construction?
A column is a compression member that resists axial loads and sometimes bending forces. It acts like a vertical pillar in a building, bridge, or other structure. The main role of a column is:
- To carry loads from the upper structure.
- To transfer loads safely to the foundation.
- To provide stability and strength to the building.
In modern construction, reinforced concrete (RCC) columns are the most common, but steel, timber, and composite columns are also widely used depending on project requirements.
Importance of Columns in Buildings
Columns are the backbone of a structure. If beams are like arms, then columns are the legs holding the body. Some key importance points include:
- They prevent building collapse by carrying loads effectively.
- They control deflection and settlement of the structure.
- They allow architects and engineers to create open spaces by reducing the need for load-bearing walls.
- They increase durability and lifespan of the structure.
Types of Columns Based on Materials
Columns are classified by their primary construction material. The most common types include reinforced concrete columns for compressive strength, structural steel columns for high tensile strength and speed of erection, composite columns (often steel-concrete) for enhanced load capacity, and masonry or timber columns for lighter residential applications.
Reinforced Concrete Columns
These are the most widely used columns in modern construction. RCC columns consist of concrete reinforced with steel bars. They are strong in both compression and tension.
Advantages:
- Durable and fire-resistant.
- Can be cast into any shape.
- Cost-effective for most projects.
Common Uses: Residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.
Steel Columns
Made of rolled steel sections such as I-sections, H-sections, or tubular shapes. Steel columns are very strong and suitable for high-rise buildings.
Advantages:
- High load-carrying capacity.
- Lightweight compared to RCC for the same strength.
- Easy to install and dismantle.
Common Uses: Multi-story buildings, bridges, and warehouses.
Timber Columns
These are traditional columns made of wood. Though less common in modern RCC construction, they are still used in rural houses, heritage structures, and temporary works.
Advantages:
- Easy to work with.
- Natural look for aesthetic design.
Common Uses: Old temples, rural houses, interior supports.
Composite Columns
Composite columns use a combination of steel and concrete to achieve better strength and performance.
Advantages:
- Excellent load resistance.
- Better fire resistance compared to steel.
Common Uses: High-rise towers, bridges, and modern infrastructure.
Types of Columns Based on Shape
Columns are categorized by their cross-sectional shape, which significantly influences their load-bearing capacity and architectural application. Common shapes include rectangular and square for typical construction, circular for effective multidirectional load resistance, L-shaped for corners, and even more complex fabricated shapes like hollow structural sections (HSS) for specialized designs.
Square or Rectangular Columns
The most commonly used column shape in RCC structures. They are easy to construct and provide good strength.
Circular Columns
These columns are aesthetically pleasing and often used in architectural designs. Circular columns also perform well in resisting loads from multiple directions.
L-Shaped Columns
Used in corners of buildings where two walls meet. They provide stability and effective load transfer.
T-Shaped Columns
Usually used in bridge construction and special architectural structures.
Polygonal Columns
Octagonal or hexagonal columns are used for decorative purposes in temples, monuments, and heritage structures.
Types of Columns Based on Load Transfer
Columns are primarily classified by how they transfer loads. Load-bearing columns carry gravity loads directly to the foundation. In contrast, tied or braced columns within a frame system also resist lateral forces like wind or earthquakes, transferring these loads through the structure’s lateral force-resisting system.
Axially Loaded Columns
These columns carry only axial compressive loads with no bending. They are rare in real structures as most columns also carry some bending moment.
Eccentrically Loaded Columns
- Uniaxial Eccentric Columns: Load acts eccentrically on one axis.
- Biaxial Eccentric Columns: Load acts eccentrically on both axes.
These are the most common in real construction due to beam-column connections.
Types of Columns Based on Slenderness Ratio
Columns are classified by slenderness ratio into short and long columns. Short columns fail by material crushing, as their strength is governed solely by cross-section and material. Long (slender) columns fail by elastic buckling under a much lower load, making their design critical for stability against bending.
Short Columns
If the effective length to least lateral dimension ratio is less than 12, it is considered a short column. They usually fail by crushing.
Long Columns
If the ratio is more than 12, it is considered a long column. Long columns fail due to buckling.
Types of Columns in Building Construction
To summarize, here are the main column types in buildings:
- RCC columns (Square, rectangular, circular, L-shaped, T-shaped, polygonal)
- Steel columns (I-section, H-section, tubular, lattice)
- Timber columns (round logs, rectangular sections)
- Composite columns (steel + concrete)
- Short and long columns based on slenderness
- Axially and eccentrically loaded columns
Comparison Table of Column Types
| Column Type | Material | Strength | Common Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| RCC Column | Concrete + Steel | High | Residential & Commercial Buildings |
| Steel Column | Rolled Steel Sections | Very High | High-rise Buildings, Bridges |
| Timber Column | Wood | Moderate | Traditional Structures |
| Composite Column | Steel + Concrete | Very High | Towers, Infrastructure Projects |
Common Mistakes in Column Design
- Wrong placement of reinforcement.
- Insufficient concrete cover.
- Poor curing after casting.
- Ignoring eccentric loads.
- Using undersized sections.
Best Practices for Column Design and Construction
- Always follow IS Codes or relevant standards.
- Provide proper reinforcement detailing.
- Ensure correct alignment and verticality during construction.
- Use good quality materials.
- Supervise concreting and curing properly.
FAQs on Types of Columns in Building
What is the most commonly used column in buildings?
The most commonly used type is the reinforced concrete (RCC) square or rectangular column.
Which column is best for high-rise buildings?
Steel and composite columns are best for high-rise buildings because of their high strength and reduced size.
What is the difference between short and long columns?
Short columns fail due to crushing, while long columns fail due to buckling. The difference is based on slenderness ratio.
Can timber columns be used in modern construction?
Yes, but mostly for temporary works or aesthetic purposes. They are not as durable as RCC or steel columns.
Which shape of column is stronger, square or circular?
Both are strong, but circular columns distribute stress more evenly and perform better under biaxial loads.
