Settlement (structural)

For settlement of the ground, see subsidence.
Timber frame building showing considerable, but tolerable settlement
Timber frame building showing considerable, but tolerable settlement

Settlement in a structure refers to the distortion or disruption of parts of a building due to either;

unequal compression of its foundations, shrinkage such as that which occurs in timber framed buildings

as the frame adjusts its moisture content, or by undue loads being applied to the building after its

initial construction.[1] Settlement should not be confused with subsidence which results from the load

bearing ground upon which a building sits reducing in level, for instance in areas of mine workings

where shafts collapse underground.

Some settlement is quite normal after construction has been completed, but unequal settlement may cause

significant problems for buildings. Traditional green oak framed buildings are designed to settle with

time as the oak seasons and warps, lime mortar rather than Portland cement is used for its elastic

properties and glazing will often employ small leaded lights which can accept movement more readily than

larger panes.