There are different levels in the building. These levels are used to make the construction process easy.
Levels are indicated in the construction drawings to make the process of understanding, a lot easier for the engineers and supervisors.
Here, I have listed some commonly used types of levels in building construction.
- Plinth Level
- Sill Level
- Lintel Level
- Natural Ground Level (NGL)
- Building Ground Level (BGL)
- Finish Floor Level (FFL)
These levels are used in various building construction works. These levels are taken as benchmarks while executing the work on the site.
Let us about these types of building levels in detail.
Table of Contents
1. Plinth Level
The plinth is the part of the superstructure which is located between the surrounding ground and the finished floor. The level of this floor surface is knowns as plinth level.
2. Sill Level
The lower part of the base of the window is known as sill level.
Check out the below image for a clear understanding of the sill level.
3. Lintel Level
As we know, the lintel is a horizontal structural piece on top of a window or door that serves as support by distributing the weight of the building above the window or door.
The top surface of the lintel is known as lintel level. (refer below figure)
4. Natural Ground Level (NGL)
Natural ground level (NGL) is the level of ground surface without any modification like excavation or soil filling. Normally, it is measured with the reference of Mean-Sea Level (MSL).
5. Building Ground Level (BGL)
Building ground level ( BGL) is the level of the ground inside the building. Normally, it varies from 150mm to 450mm, from the Natural Ground Level (NGL).
The primary reason for raising the height of any building is to restrict the entry of water inside the building due to rainfall or storm. The height of the Building Ground Level may enhance if the building is located in sloppy areas as well as in the areas where heavy rainfall commonly occurs.
It is normally a concrete floor surface without any finishing such as tiles.
6. Finish Floor Level (FFL)
Finished floor level (FFL) is the top surface of building ground level (BGL) after completion of finished surfaces such as tile, marble, etc.