building tech Flashcards
(29 cards)
Q: What is the primary function of a foundation?
A: To support the building’s weight (structural loads) and ensure stability.
Q: Why is proper foundation design important?
A: It distributes loads evenly to prevent excessive settlement or movement and maintains structural integrity.
Q: Name the two main types of foundations.
A: Shallow foundations and deep foundations.
Q: Give examples of shallow foundations.
A: Spread (isolated) footings, strip (wall) footings,, raft (mat) foundations
Q: Give examples of deep foundations.
A: Piles (driven piles, bored piles), caissons (drilled piers).
Q: What is the biggest threat to foundations?
A: Water infiltration, which can cause cracking, mold growth, and structural damage.
Q: Name three waterproofing methods.
A: Membranes, bituminous coatings, drainage boards.
Q: What are two common drainage systems?
A: Perimeter drains (French drains) and sump pumps.
Q: How does grading help with drainage?
A: Sloping the land away from the foundation prevents water pooling.
Q: Why is structural steel widely used in construction?
A: It has high strength, ductility, and flexibility.
Q: What are common standardized steel shapes?
A: Beams, columns, and plates.
Q: What is the main advantage of structural steel over concrete?
A: High strength-to-weight ratio.
Q: What percentage of structural steel is recycled in the U.S.?
A: 98%.
Q: What is the difference between shear and moment connections?
A:
-Shear connections transfer only vertical and horizontal forces, allowing rotation.
-Moment connections resist bending forces and provide rotational stiffness.
Q: What are the three main ingredients in concrete?
A: Cement, aggregates, and water
Q: What is the hydration process?
A: The chemical reaction that binds concrete materials together, forming a solid mass.
Q: What is the difference between cast-in-place and precast concrete?
-Cast-in-place: Poured directly on-site, allowing for design flexibility.
-Precast: Manufactured off-site and transported to the construction site.
Q: What is reinforcement used for in concrete?
A: To compensate for concrete’s weakness in tension.
Q: Name three types of reinforcement materials.
A: Steel rebar, steel fibers, mesh.
Q: What is the most common type of wood framing used today?
A: Platform framing.
Q: Name two advantages of wood frame construction.
A: Flexibility in design, readily available materials.
Q: What are two limitations of wood as a construction material?
A: Susceptibility to moisture/decay and fire hazards.
Q: What is the difference between nominal and actual lumber sizes?
A:
- Nominal size is the rough-sawn dimension before finishing.
-Actual size is the final measurement after milling and drying.
Q: What is the actual size of a 2x4 piece of lumber?
A: 1 ½” x 3 ½”.
