MCRP 12-10B.1, page 334

Appendix I Urban Building Analysis As in other types of operations, success in urban combat depends largely on the ability to analyze the military aspects of terrain. Marines must be able to recognize certain terrain features when evaluating urbanized terrain. 1. Types of Mass-Construction Buildings. Mass-construction buildings are those in which the outside walls support the weight of the building and its contents. Additional support, especially in wide buildings, comes from using load-bearing interior walls, strongpoints (called pilasters) on the exterior walls, cast-iron interior columns, and arches or braces over the windows and doors (Figure I-1). Modern types of mass-construction buildings are wall and slab structures, such as many modern apartments and hotels, and “tilt-up” structures commonly used for industry or storage. Mass-construction buildings are built in many ways: The walls can be built in place by using brick, block, or poured-in-place concrete. The walls can be prefabricated and then tilted up, or they can be reinforced-concrete panels. The walls can be prefabricated and assembled like boxes. Figure I-1. Mass-Construction Buildings