Parapets play a vital role in the design of a house. Before we move on examining the various house parapet designs that can be ideal for your home, we need to have some clarity on what parapets are and why it is needed.
What is the parapet of a house?
A parapet is a low wall along the edge of a bridge, a roof, etc., meant to stop people from falling. The term parapet comes from the Italian word parapetto, which could be translated as a banister, a handrail, breastwork, guard rail or spandrel. In architecture, the term parapet is meant to identify the outermost walls of a house or building.
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Why do you need a parapet in your house?
Parapets constructed at the edge of the roof or any boundary ensure the safety of the occupants. This is why constructing parapets is not optional but should be considered mandatory. Apart from providing safety, parapets also enhance the aesthetics of the property, giving it a defining character.
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Benefits of parapet wall
- Provide safety barrier and prevent accidents
- Adds to aesthetic appeal
- Obstructs wind
- Ensures cleanliness
- Provides cover to machinery and equipment like water pipes
For all the reasons mentioned above, you would invariably see a dwarf wall, mostly known as a parapet wall, constructed along the edge of all roofs, terraces, walkways and balconies. Check out these house parapet design ideas to get inspired
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Types of parapet walls
Based on the look and function, parapet walls can be classified into the following types:
- Simple parapet wall
- Embattled parapet wall
- Perforated parapet wall
- Paneled parapet wall
- Sloped parapet wall
- Stepped parapet wall
- Flat parapet wall
- Curved parapet wall
See also: Home terrace design ideas
Most used materials to build parapets
Parapet walls are generally made up of reinforced cement concrete (RCC), brick masonry, steel, metal, wood and glass.
Height and thickness of parapet wall
Ideally, a parapet wall should not be less than three ft tall. If you are going to use RCC to build a parapet wall, maintain its thickness at nine inches.
