Ruwbouw

Ruwbouw is a Dutch term meaning rough construction or shell construction. It denotes the phase in a construction project during which the basic structure is erected and the project takes its fundamental shape, prior to finishing work.

In shipbuilding, ruwbouw refers to the assembly of the hull and major structural components from the keel up to the point where the hull is watertight and ready for outfitting. Activities typically include cutting and fitting frames, welding hull plates, erecting the shell, and installing bulkheads and decks. Once the ruwbouw is complete, the project proceeds to the afbouw or afwerking, the finishing stage, during which internal systems and fittings are installed.

In construction of buildings, ruwbouw covers the erection of the load-bearing structure, including columns, beams, floors, and roof framework, while finishing elements such as plaster, cladding, and interior partitions are tackled later. Materials used in ruwbouw vary by sector, with steel and concrete being common in modern ship and building projects, and timber historically significant in some contexts.

Quality control during ruwbouw focuses on structural integrity and dimensional accuracy. In shipbuilding, checks address alignment, weld quality, and hull integrity, along with adherence to design drawings and safety standards. In building construction, inspections ensure that the skeleton meets engineering specifications before proceeding to finishing works.