Skyscrapers are a natural development over the history of architecture and construction. Humans’ fascination with building tall structures has long since been recorded (the pyramids being a peak example). It wasn’t until relatively recently that we have been able to create buildings that practically touch the clouds.
Before the middle of the 19th century, a building more than ten stories high was impractical and practically impossible to build. The advancements of construction technology changed all of that, though. With the invention of a new brake system for elevators and the invention of mass-producing steel, redefined the limits of how high we can build. Suddenly, we were able to work and inhabit spaces in the air that were solid, durable, and fire-resistant.
It may seem complicated how skyscrapers are constructed, but once it’s all broken down, the process isn’t too complicated, there’s just a lot that goes into it. Continue on to find out exactly how skyscrapers are built below.
Skyscrapers are lauded for their convenience and luxury, and a lot goes into how a skyscraper is built. Although most of the methods are the same, such as needing the right types of foundations, these massive structures now come in a variety of shapes and styles. Who knows how they’ll make them or what future building materials will be used, but one thing is for sure: skyscrapers are the perfect example of progress and ingenuity.
Sources:
How Stuff Works| How Products Are Made| Slate| Building the Skyline| Glass Magazine
