Centre line method of estimating a building — key rules: Identify the correct statements about using the centre line method to compute quantities for walls and associated items in a building.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: All the above

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
The centre line method is a fast and reliable estimating technique for buildings with repetitive wall geometry. Instead of measuring each wall face separately (long-wall/short-wall), quantities are obtained using the total centre line length multiplied by item-specific cross-sections, with careful junction corrections.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Rectangular/symmetric planning so that junction corrections are systematic.
  • Different wall thicknesses (e.g., main wall vs. partition) may exist.
  • Items measured include excavation, foundation concrete, brickwork, and DPC where applicable.


Concept / Approach:

For any layer having uniform cross-section, quantity = centre line length * cross-sectional area. When wall thickness changes or walls intersect, the centre line length requires adjustments (usually by half the meeting wall thickness at each junction) to avoid double counting.


Step-by-Step Solution:

1) Compute centre line lengths for each distinct thickness section.2) Apply junction corrections: subtract or add half the meeting wall thickness as per layout.3) Multiply corrected centre line by item cross-section (e.g., t * depth for masonry).4) Sum over all layers/items (excavation, PCC, footing, brickwork, DPC).


Verification / Alternative check:

Cross-check with long-wall/short-wall method on a small bay; both should match within rounding if junction corrections are applied properly.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Options (a)–(c) are individually correct; hence “All the above” is the right consolidated choice.


Common Pitfalls:

  • Forgetting to recompute centre line for different wall thicknesses and offsets.
  • Omitting half-thickness deductions at T-junctions and cross-junctions, causing quantity inflation.


Final Answer:

All the above.

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