Keskikerros

Keskikerros is a Finnish term that literally means "middle layer" or "middle floor." It is used in various fields to describe the central level or layer within a stratified system, and its precise meaning depends on the context.

In architecture and building construction, keskikerros commonly refers to the intermediate floors of a multi-storey building—the levels that are neither on the ground floor nor on the topmost floors. The term is used in planning and structural discussions to indicate locations for apartments, offices, or mechanical spaces that occupy mid-height. Its exact interpretation can vary with building type, design practices, and regional terminology.

In materials science and engineering, keskikerros describes the middle layer in layered or laminated systems. For example, in a sandwich panel or laminate, it denotes the core layer situated between outer skins or pintakerros (surface layers). The central layer often provides properties such as insulation, stiffness, or impact resistance, while the outer layers contribute surface finish and environmental protection.

In soil science or geology, keskikerros may be used to denote a middle stratum within a soil profile or rock sequence, situated between upper and lower layers. As with architecture, the term’s usage is context-dependent and may be supplemented with more precise descriptors.

Etymology and related terms: kesk- means middle, kerros means floor or layer. Related terms in Finnish include pintakerros (surface layer) and alakerros (lower layer), though usage varies by discipline.