Building vs. Construction – The Difference | Engineer Supply - EngineerSupply

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What is the difference between building and construction?

Blog difference between building and construction Construction and building are often used interchangeably. While this is totally fine in casual English, it can be helpful in the construction field to understand the difference. Technically, their dictionary meanings are synonymous. However, there is a difference in connotation and usage in the professional space.

Blog difference between building and construction

Typically, construction refers more broadly to any project in the field. For example, construction may include constructing a road. Whereas building typically refers to erecting a building such as a home or business.

This same idea can be applied to the product of the process. A team’s construction could be anything from a skyscraper to a parking lot. Conversely, a building is almost always a closed structure with walls and a roof.

Additionally, many engineers will use construction to mean the entire project from design to completion. In this framework, building refers only to the phase of actually erecting the structure.

In short, construction is usually a broader term compared to building. Construction tools may include drafting, measurement and other tools involved in the overall project. While basic construction tools are essentially the same as building tools, more advanced items may cover a much wider range of tasks.

While the differences between building and construction are not clearly set forth in their definitions, the common uses in the field are different. Understanding these can help you communicate more clearly.




Blog difference between building and construction

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Difference Between a Building and a Structure?

A structure is any type of man-made construction. For example, it may be a bridge or a dam. Conversely, a building is specifically a closed structure with a roof and walls. Again, a building is the more specific term whereas structure is much more general. A much more varied collection of construction tools may be used in creating a structure.

What Does Building Construction Mean?

Building construction is the process of constructing buildings. This is more specific than the general term “construction.” The result of building construction is always a building or an addition to a building. This may be in a residential or commercial setting. The majority of building construction projects are additions.

What Are the 5 Types of Building Construction?

The types of building construction are based on the fire resistance of the end product. Type I is fire-resistive, type II is non-combustible, type III is ordinary, type IV is heavy timber and type V is wood frame. The lower types require more advanced construction measuring tools and materials to ensure effective resistance.

What Are the Types of Building?

There are many ways to define different types of buildings. One of the most common categorizations classes a building as either residential, commercial, industrial, infrastructural, agricultural or specialty. This system bases the type of building on the intended purpose of the final structure. Different methods may be employed for each type.

What Is Modern Method of Construction?

Modern methods of construction are techniques developed by the construction industry to improve structural integrity, reduce cost, lessen building time and ensure greater sustainability. Many modern methods of construction require specialty construction tools. For example, precast flat-panel systems require premade parts and heavy equipment for placement.


Best Construction Level

#1: David White LT8-300P 26x Transit Level with Optical Plummet

Best construction level david white LT8-300P-46-D8871

This 26x transit level has an accuracy of 3/16 of an inch at distances of up to 150 feet, but it has a total range of 400 feet. The optics have a horizontal circle with a lock and tangent as well as a vertical arc with a lock and tangent. It also has a 5/8" x 11" thread size and a 1:100 stadia with a glass reticle. When you purchase this construction level, you will also get the following:

  • Optical plummet
  • Rain hood
  • Objective lens cap
  • Hard carrying case
If you’re ready to purchase this level, be sure to pick yours up at Engineer Supply.

#2: Topcon 32x Automatic Level AT-B2

Best construction level topcon-32x-2110220B0

This automatic level will allow surveyors and construction professionals to get accurate level, angle, height and distance measurements. The optics have a 32x magnification, a 1/32-inch accuracy, and a built-in compensator that will stabilize the line of sight (even in the presence of fine vibrations that can be caused by heavy equipment on the job site). The telescope has a focus range of 7.9 inches and can be used in confined spaces. It also has an internal magnetic dampened compensator, which will allow you to level the line of sight within a range of 15 arc minutes at an accuracy of 0.3 arc seconds. You can even get it with the following accessories:

  • Diagonal eyepiece.
  • Optical micrometer.
  • Light pack (which can be helpful low-light conditions).
  • 40x eyepiece (which will improve accuracy and magnification).
Be sure to pick yours up at Engineer Supply today!

#3: Sokkia B20 32X Automatic Level

Best construction level sokkia-B20-32X-2110120B0

This construction level has been proven to provide both precision and durability. It also features enhanced reliability in all types of environmental conditions. Its tough and compact body has an IPx6 Rating. So, it will be resistant to damage caused by water, humidity, and dust. It also has a number of useful features, which can include but may not be limited to:

  • Precise and reliable automatic compensator — It has four high-tensile suspension wires and a magnetic dampening system, which will ensure accuracy and stability (even when it’s exposed to temperature changes, vibrations, or shock).
  • Superior telescope — It can provide an exceptionally bright and sharp view that will minimize eye strain. It also has an ultra-short focus of 7.9 inches (20 cm) from the end of the telescope, which makes it easier to use in confined spaces.
  • Quick collimation — The two knobs of endless horizontal motion drives can be operated with either hand, which allows for faster and easier aiming.
  • Horizontal angle measurement — Horizontal angles can be read in one-degree or one-gradian units, and the freely rotatable circle will allow you to perform any angle reading from zero.
The stadia lines on the reticle will allow you to perform any distance measurement, and it’s easy to adjust with one screw. The circular level vials are adjusted with two screws, but both of them are quick and easy with the provided tools.

#4: Topcon RL-200 2S Dual Slope Rotary Laser Level Pro Package

Best construction level topcon-RL-200-314920782

This self-leveling, dual-slope rotary construction laser level is great for exterior applications and it includes the following:

  • Rechargeable battery kit.
  • LS-100D laser detector with the Holder 6 rod clamp.
  • RC-400 remote control.
  • Hard carrying case.
The red laser beam has an operating range of 3,600 feet in diameter with a laser detector, and it has an accuracy of 3/64 of an inch at distances of up to 100 feet.

#5: Topcon RL-H5A DB Alkaline Horizontal Laser Level with LS-80L Receiver

Best construction level topcon-RL-H5A-DB-1021200-07

This construction laser level has an operation range of up to 800 meters, and it comes with a smart long-range receiver. The laser has a rotation speed of 600 rpm with a self-leveling range of five degrees. The battery can last up to 100 hours, and the body has an IP66 Rating (which allows it to withstand dust, a sudden shower, or even heavy rainfall). When you purchase this laser level for construction, it will come with a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty as well as the following accessories:

  • Topcon LS-80L Laser Detector.
  • Sensor holder.
  • Carry case.
Be sure to pick yours up at Engineer Supply today!
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