Construction tech Flashcards
(136 cards)
1
Q
Esmond Road FeasibilityWhat were the alternatives you considered?
A
Due to the size of the plot available and the requirements of the nationally described space standards for new dwellings, which required 79m2 for a new dwelling, the only viable method for introdcing a new dwelling was to use a basement excavation. The unit was self contained and included a light well.
2
Q
Esmond Road FeasibilityWhat were the national space standards you described?
A
The national space standards set minimum gross internal areas for new dwellings. Due to the size and layout of the site, I knew any orientation of the two bedroom dwelling would be over two storeys. Abiding by the national space standards meant the dwelling needed to have a gross internal area of 79m2.
3
Q
Warley Hill, office refurbBefore reocmmending cavity wall insualation what British Standard did you consult?
A
I refered to PAS 2035, which is the publically availbel specification for retrofit of UK buildings. I consulted with a PAS 2035 retrofit assessor to determinet the most suitable method for improving the thermal perofrmance of the property.
4
Q
Warley Hill, office refurbWhat inspection did you recommend before cavity wall insulation was adopted as the design solution?
A
I recommended that we complete an inspeciton of the cavity to understand the existing levels of insulaiton within the cavity and also to determine the cavity width. This would also allow for us to determine the peformance requirment of the newly installed caivty wall insulation.
5
Q
Warley Hill, office refurbWhat were the grants and under what scheme?
A
The scheme was Eco3, which is a government scheme for energy suppliers to fund the installatino of energy improvement measures to households. The grant that was available was for the payment of cavity wall insulation to dwellings that had an energy performance E or lower.
6
Q
Warley Hill, office refurbHow were the grants applied for?
A
During the project I applied for the grant through EDF. This involved meeting a surveyor on site, they completed a survey of all of the dwellings at the property and requested EPC surveys. Once the energy perofrmance of the dwellings had been confirmed, polysterene insulation was installed and for the dwellings that met requirements the cost was removed.
7
Q
What are the characteristics of JCT MTC?
A
Used for regular programme of works with single contractorGenerally used for maintenace or minor worksDefined timer period and buildingsAgreed schedule of ratesClient issue orders for works to be done
8
Q
What are the functions of trickle vents?
A
Allows fresh air to brought in propertyTakes polluted air outWithout loosing excessive heat
9
Q
SBHGHow did you complete snagging inspections to ensure the quality of works to the windows?
A
I used a 6 point checking system to check for:1- Frame damage, 2- Function of windows3 - Prescense of trickle vents 4- Damage of panes5- Locks and keys 6 - Seals and junctions
10
Q
Do you know of any BRE guidance on repairs?
A
The BRE good reapir guide provides infromation on good building works and apprpriate repairs for different elemetns undergoing different damage.
11
Q
SBHGHow did you advise that the windows not having trickle vents meant they would not meet building regulations?
A
Building regulation part F gives minimum ventilation 3 bedroom flat of the size required 50000m2 Background ventilationOnly one window to the rear had trickle ventsInadequate ventilation
12
Q
SBHGHow did you overcome the issue of windows not having trickle vents?
A
Asked the contractor to provide a detail for bottom rail trickle ventsReviewed detail and presented to plannersOnce approved instructed contractor to fit retrposectively
13
Q
Emma HouseHow did you determine the constrction?
A
Requested as built drawings from the clientIntrusive inspections have been complted by FFTCompleted a site inspection of balconies and penthouse
14
Q
Emma HouseWhat was the wall construction
A
Cavity masonry substrateTimber battens and cladding on top
15
Q
What is Euroclass?
A
Euroclass is a classification system that groups materials based on how much it contributes to the development of a fire in its early stages.
16
Q
What does Euroclass A2 mean?
A
Non-combustible material and no noticeable contribution to fire.
17
Q
On Emma House, why did you use A2 materials?
A
ntrusive investigations were carried out to the property prior to my involvement to allow a fire engineer to complete the EWS form. He concluded that in order for the property to be classified as option A Euroclass A2 materials were requried.
18
Q
What is an external wall system?
A
External/Outside wall of a residential building inc:CladdingInsulationFire break systems
19
Q
What is an EWS1 process and form?
A
Process and resulting form to confirm status of EWSAssessed by a suitable expertConfirmed as safe or unsafeIn line with government guidanceProvides assurance to lenders/insurers/buyers
20
Q
On Emma House, how did you ensure your proposed materials could be used with the existing substrate?
A
I contacted all of the manufacturers for the replacement cladding materials to understand the fixing systems and whether they could be used in conjunction with blockwork. For the timber strips, I attended site, took measurements and created detail drawings that I could send to manufacturers to ensure they would fit the existing steel frame.
21
Q
On Emma Hosue, you mentioned you tried to reduce costs for the project by using existin substrate, how else did you try to value engineer the project?
A
Contacted a range of manufacturersRequested costs for each of the materialsPresented the costs for each of the materials to the client
22
Q
Emma HouseHow did choosing a materials that resembled the existing cladding maximise the chances of planning being accepted?
A
By choosing materials that resembled the existing cladding timber strips it would minimise the impact of the works and increase chances of approval.
23
Q
What were the materials that you chose for Emma House?
A
I chose a cement fibre board product for the cladding from Rockpanel woods. This presented a Eurolcass A2 material that would resemble existing, and also had a propreitary fixing system that could be used in line with the substrate of the building. For the balcony shading, I contacted various solar shading manufacturers for product that could be fixed to the existing steel frame. The product i chose was an aluminium box section as it had the correct classification and any RAL colour could be applied.
24
Q
What should be included in a feasibility study?
A
Determine whether project is viableIdentify numerous feasible optionsIdentify any potential barriers and legislation to the project
25
What are the nationally described space standards?
Standard that deals with internal space of new dwellingsDefined at level of occupancyFloor areas of key parts of rooms i.e. bedoroom and storage
26
How did you use the nationally described space standards at Esmond Road?
The report required the reconfiguration of the property to include a new 2 bedroom apartments. 2 bedroom apartments a minimum of 79m2 gross internal floor areas including storage.In order to meet these regulations a basement excavation was required.
27
How did you advise the client on the potential budget costings of the feasibility options you provided?
Budget costings were developed through records of other simiar projects and the use of BCIS.
28
On Warley Hill what was the polypearl cavity insulation product used?
Insulation bead that is filled into the cavityBeads are uniform in size and coated with glue to prevent settlementForms a matrix to allow for any penetrating water to drain down in the cavity as intended.
29
What was the benefit of using the Polypearl system as opposed to dry lining each flat?
Allowed for a government grant to supplement costWorks would not be required in every flatRemoved the requirement for additional internal insualtion
30
Were there any negatives with the use of the polypearl cavity wall insulation?
In order for the government grant to be given each flat required an up to date EPC and for a survey to be completed for energy efficiency. This did present a risk of the project running past the completion date.
31
What was the relevant building regulation and how was it applied to the specfication and instruction of the polypearl product?
The relevant building regulation is Part L. It required the improvement in thermal performance of the existing elements to have an improved U-value of 0.55 W/m2.k. The polypearl system improved the U value to 0.23.
32
What was the government grant applied for int his project?
The Energy Company Obligation Scheme ECOEliglble properties to save enery through subsidised Improvements.
33
What was the process of acquiring the grant?
Make contact with EONPut in contact with relevant third party installerEPC's were required to all dwellings within the flatInstallation was completedFlats with poor enough energy performance were removed from cost
34
Tell me about the impact of different design solutions and construction processes on cost and programme.
Typically more comprehensive and complicated method of construct may cause for increases in cost, for example the repair of timber window rather than its replacement. However, where a client finds value in a project should be determined, as a good quick fix may be of value to a client who is intending to address a more comprehensive repair in the near future.
35
Tell me about your advice on the selection and application of particular processes within your area of experience.
I have recently advised a client on the specification of fire door repair and replacement programme. I completed an inspection with prospective contractors to get an understanding on repairs to be specified. I advised the client that if they wanted to have better cost certaintity they should complete a survey sepeartely before tendering, which could delay the process, or they could procure the survey within the spec and use a shcedule of rates afteward
36
How have you liased with specialists and consultants to develop project specific design and constructino solutions,
I have consulted with specalist to develop design solutions outside of my expertise. In particular structural engineers and M&E consultants. Recently I consulted with a structural engineer to develop a working platform within a riser that spanned over 3 storeys.
37
Talk me throgh how you have reported on the impact of different design solutions on cost of a constrcution project.
Recently I was asked to provide cost alternatives to the replacement of a slate roof covering to a mansard roof construction. Due to the building being listed we I could not change materials. I advised that as the external slopes were not in bad condition we could reduce cost by only replacing the internal slopes, which would also help to reudce the cost of the scaffold.
38
talk me through how you have reported on the impact of different design solutions and construction processes on programme.
Recently I advised on repairs to timber cills to windows that were accessed via scaffold. I advised the client that the timebr cills could be repaired and would not have an affect on the programme but would likely need attention on the next mainteance programme. Or a more comprehensive repair would be to over cap them with aluminium cills, but would likely affect the programme.
39
Are you aware of the RIBA Plan of Work?
The RIBA plans of works was initiated in 1963Provides a framework for architects with their clientsGreater clarity to stages of a projectHas evolved over the years to reflect changesInductrustry wide tool
40
What stages of the RIBA plan of works have you been involved in?
Various different stages throughout my career I was usually involved 2 - 4 in my early career Now involved 1 - 6 usually On polygon 1-6 of 2013 version
41
What foundation types are you aware of?
Raft - Spread the load of superstructure over large base. Reduces the lead per M2Pad - Provide base for reinforced concrete or steel columns (RC)Piled - Seried of columns inserted into the ground to transmit loads to lower load bearing strata Strip- Suitable for most sub-soils (RC) Trench- RC trench fill .
42
When might piled foundations be used?
Screw,continuous flight auger, driven, cast in situ, secant, borePile foundations are mainly used where the soil is weak at the surface and there is a need to bypass this soil to reach a stronger lower base such as rock, or where a very heavy structure such as a high rise building is being constructed.
43
What are the advantages of a concrete framed structure over a steel framed structure?
Safety advantages mainly. Concrete can withstand higher temperatures for longer periods. Excellent protection over explosions Fast and time means money. Mean radient heat - expelling heat into the building at night
44
What building elements are classed as the super structure?
Everything above ground Walls RoofWindows and doorsFloors
45
What are the components of a timber pitched roof structure?
Ridge BoardRaftersBattensPurlinJoistWall plates
46
How might an internal partition be altered to provide better acoustic performance? (Wall Type 4)
Part E - Resistance of the passage of soundIndependant timber or steel framesMineral wool Double skin plaster board each sideJunctions well jointed and caulked
47
Give me some examples of the different heating systems present in the properties you maintain.
Combi gas boiler and radiator space heating
48
What form of floor construction would you expect to find in a 1970’s purpose-built block of flats (to ensure sufficient fire protection?
Reinforced Concrete slab
49
Explain the principles of compartmentation in relation to purpose-built blocks of flats
Designed to contain fire within originDampers within ventilation systems Inturnmicent closers within vertical ventilated cavitiesFire stopping around windows and dooors externallyIntermicent collars and closers around service penetrations30 min protecction walls, ceilings, floors and fire doors
50
What are British Standards?
Publications issued by the British Standards Institution- BSRecommended minimum standards for materials, components, design and construction projects.
51
Are flat roofs ever flat?
No, roofs less than 10◦are considered 'flat'firrings or cut insulation aids fall and drainage
52
What is the difference between a FCU and an AHU?
Fan Coil Unit is a standalone system that circulates air in a small space whereas an Air Handling Unit circulates the air through a ducting system and is part of an HVAC system
53
Can you talk me through some changes to the building regulations recently?
The introduction of Part O - overheating - to reduce the solar heat gain from properties with large amounts of glazing.The introduction of part S - infrastrcuture for electric car heating - to future proof homes for the use of electric cars.
54
What is BIM?
Building information modelling is software used to allow different professional groups of a project to plan, design and construct buildings.
55
What are the advantages of BIM?
It is effective at minimising variations required as the design can be agreed between all professionals to ensure that they align.
56
What information do you need for a planning application?
Site details, SLP, client details, the size of the development, materials to be used, changes required to highways, if the area is in a conservation area, If there are parking arrangements that need to change.
57
Give me some advantages and disadvantages of steel.
It is very strong and can span large distances but this comes at a cost of size. It can be awkward to install if it is very large particularly on residential jobs. It is susceptible to corrosion and can weaken if directly exposed in a fire.
58
What are O&Ms and who approves them?
Operations and maintenance manuals. The contractor must prepare this and provide it to the client and PD for inclusion in the H&S file.
59
What is a hot topic in construction at the moment?
Sustainability is a hot topic throughout the industry at the moment and recently the UK's first cement free mortar has been launced. Portland cement is responsible for 8% of the worlds emissions and cement free mortart could help to reduce that figure by 70%.
60
What are the three types of water protection systems for basements?
Type A - BarrierType B - IntegralType C - Drained
61
What is the relevant building standard for water protection systems for basements?
BS8012:2009
62
What is a type A water protection system?
Barrier system.Incorporates a waterproof/impermeable layer into the construction of the building. It can be laid on the outside, within the structure or internally.A double layer can be used to help ensure no water ingress.
63
What is a type B water protection system?
Integral system.The water protection system is built into the structure of the building, either using waterproof cement or structural steel.
64
What is type C water protection system?
Drainage system.Water is allowed to penetrate into the property and then is drained through the cavity.A pump or drainage sytem will then take it out of the property.
65
Warley HillHow did you apply the building regulations to the circulation areas and the door widths?
All doors had a clear opening of 900mm Clear width of hall or landing 900mmLocalised obstructions (radiators) not in front of door ways
66
SBHG Window Replacement programmeWhat was the purpose of the window replacement programme?
Our client wanted to replace windows to their stock that had reached the end of life and also where they had been referred by residents. Timber: 60 Years (with mainteance)UPVC: 35 YearsThis also had the added benefit of improving the thermal performance of the properties.
67
SBHG Window Replacement programmeWhat type of windwos were used for the programme?
Primiarly timber double glazed windows were used to the front of the property. They utlised slimlite glazing to allow for their apperance to close resemble the existing.We then used, where applicable, heritage UPVC windows with double glazing to the rear.
68
SBHG Window Replacement programmeWhat type of contract was used for the programme?
JCT MTC ContractThis was applied to allow for other works to be procured and for workst to be raised in different areas.
69
SBHG Window Replacement programmeWhat was the approximate cost of the project?
Approximately 2million over 2 years.
70
SBHG Window Replacement programmeWhat snagging inspections were carried out?
I completed weekly inspections of properties as they were completed. I carried out a six part inspection checklist of all windows:1) Check for trickle vents2) Check the frame for damage3) Check glazing for damage4) Check all ironmongery and locks were present5) Check if windows were sealed6) Check if the operation of the windows were complete
71
SBHG Window Replacement programmeWhat issue did your snagging inspections pick up?
I noticed that some timber windows did not have trickle vents installed.
72
SBHG Window Replacement programmeHow was the issue relevant to building regulations?
The lack of trickle vents would affect building regulations part F (ventilation).Due to the size of the flat (3 bed over 2 floors) there was a requirement for 8000mm2 of background ventliation.Without any additional trickle ventilation the windows would not meet building regulations.
73
SBHG Window Replacement programmeWhat action did you take to make sure the windows met regulations?
I instructed the contractor that the windows needed to have trickle ventilation installed. They advised they ahd nto been installed due to the arched apetures.I instructed them to install the trickle vents to the bottom rails of the property.
74
SBHG Window Replacement programmeWhat building regulations does FENSA certification cover?
Part A - Structure; being strong enough to support lintelPart C - Resistance to moisture, making sure vertical damp proof course is not penetratedPart K - Ensuring any glass below 800mm of floor level has toughened glassPart L - All windows must have U value of 1.6
75
Emma House Cladding RefurbishmentWHas the scope of your role as Employers Agent?
I was appointed to develop the employers requirements for the project and then issue them out to tender.Once tenders were recived I analysed them and recommended the one that I thought was most appropriate. The contract is still in the process of beginning. But I have also completed the statutory regulation reguirements i.e. planning.
76
Emma House Cladding RefurbishmentWhat materials did you present to your client?
For the cladding I presented a variety of cement fibre products, but I reocmmended that the rock panel woods was used due to costs and how close it was to the existing product.For the balcony strips, this was more difficult as the product was more niche. I presented a single product but from a range of manufacturers to show value.
77
Emma House Cladding RefurbishmentHow did you ensure the works would gain planning permission?
I selected materials that were sympathetic to the original construction.For the cladding I picked a rockwood panel that could mimic the existing timber cladding. For the timber strips I picked a aluminimum strip that could mimic the existing colours.
78
Emma House Cladding RefurbishmentWHat criteria did you use to sleect the materials for the replacement of the timber cladding and balcony strips?
#NAME?
79
Emma House Cladding RefurbishmentWhat steps did you take to reduce the cost of the project?
Before selecting materials I contacted various manufacters to understand the costs of the supply of the materials in comparison to each other. I also selected mateirals that would fit the existing substrate to minimise facilitation works.
80
Emma House Cladding RefurbishmentHow did you ensure the selected mateirals were compatible with the existing substrate of the cladding and timber strip framework?
Intrusive investigations were completed before the start of the project. This determined the substrate of the cladding.I also completed a site inspection and developed detail drawings of the fixing structure for the timber strips.I provided this information to manufacturers to ensure the materials could be used with existing substrate.
81
Esmond Road FeasibilityWhat challenges did you face when developing this feasibility report?
The main challenge I faced was understanding how I could implement a flat with sevre space restrictions. This meant that I needed to develop an understanding of how basement excavations are carried out i.e. hoarding, excavations, tanking, underpinning. I then also needed to understand what legal constraints were associated with that i.e.Planning, building control, party wall.
82
Esmond Road Feasibility Could you explain the process that you used to developed a range of sulitions that would meet building regulations and the nationally described space standards?
I completed a measured survey while on site. This allowed me to develop existing drawings. I was then able to sketch out different configurations of the new dwelling while enusring that they met the nationally prescribed space standards. This also allowed me to conisder how much work would be invovled in each of the options. Whiel also outlining the positives and negatives of each.
83
Esmond Road Feasibility How did you ensure that the potential budget costs related to the solutions were accurate?
I used BCIS to develop a cost for each of the individual tasks.
84
Warley Hill Office Convervsin & RefurbWhat type of contract was used for the project and why?
The JCT IM with CDP was used for the project.Due to the expense of the project being approximately £400, and that specilaist sub contractors for the roof and windows were going to be used.The CDP allowed for the design responsibility for all mechanical and electrical services to be placed on the contractor.
85
Warley Hill Office Conversion & RefurbWhat solution did you suggest to increase the thermal performance of the flats?
I advised that we could increase the thermal insulation of the walls to improve thermal performance. Which could have been achieved with cavity wall insulation, external wall insulation, or internal wall insulation.
86
Warley Hill Office Conversion & RefurbWhat was the potential benefit of the solution you suggested?
By using CWI it allowed for minimal disturbance of the residents and access was only needed for surveys rather than installation.It also meant that there would be no requirement for planning as it would not be changing the appearnace of the property.
87
Warley Hill Office Conversion & RefurbWhat was the total cost of the insulation?
The total cost of the insulation was approximately £30k, with the use of the grant this reduced by approximately 50%.
88
Warley Hill Office Conversion & RefurbWas there any governemnt grant available to fund the installation?
Yes, there was ECO3 grant/ energy company obligation grant. This was a grant to help improve the energy performance of your homes by the government funding them.
89
Warley Hill Office Conversion & RefurbHow would you liase with specialists and consultants to develop project-specific design and construction solutions?
Where area of projects extend outside of my knowledge or expertise I would use a consultant or specialist from my organisations approved sub consultant list. These are consultants that all have technical service agreements.Recently I have instructed an asbestos surveyor to give a method statement for removing door frames that were in close proximity to a chrysotile floor tile.
90
What are the main types of curtain walling ?
spandrel panelshopfront windowrain screen claddingCladding = Cladding is the application of one material over another to provide a skin or layer. In construction, cladding is used to provide a degree of thermal insulation and weather resistance, and to improve the appearance of buildings
91
What is the RIBA plan of works ? and what are the stages ?
The RIBA Plan of Work organises the process of briefing, designing, constructing and operating building projects into eight stages and explains the stage outcomes, core tasks and information exchanges required at each stage.```0 - Strategic Definition1 - Preparation and briefing2 - Concept design3 - Spatial Coordination - PA4 - Technical Design - BC & T5 - Manufacturing and Construction6 - Handover7 - In Use```
92
How does the RIBA plan of Works 2020 differ from 2013?
More sustainable feature, sustainability, title of some of the riba stages, spatial coordination
93
Can you name some non traditional construction in your local ?
Airey House - Concrete pre fab columns with concrete panels fitted to these. With steel stud created at regular intervals to allow for placement of windows and doors.Cussin - Steel framed house with opre cast concrete panel infuils externally finished with clay slip tiles or render. Defects linked to the steel frame and corrosion.Both a result of demand for housing post ww2.
94
Can you name some brick bonds ?What bond is your case study ?
StretcherHeaderEnglishFlemish
95
How would you identify Japanese knotweed ?
RICS have an information paper* Red or green/purple tinge* Bamboo like appearance* Zig zag stem* Cream flowers* Shovel shaped green leaves
96
What are the types of mortar used ?
Type O• Weak strength 350 PSI• Used for repointing or some stone workType N• Strength 750• Common type with slow curing and good workabilityType S• Strong 1800 PSI• Used in exterior walls and foundationsType M• Strongest 2500 PSI• Used in exterior walls, foundation and high load bearing walls
97
What is a green roof ?
A green roof or living roof is a roof of a building that is partially or completely covered with vegetation and a growing medium, planted over a waterproofing membrane. It may also include additional layers such as a root barrier and drainage and irrigation systems.
98
Can you name some British standards ?
BS 8300 - Design of an accessible and inclusive built environmentBS 9999 - Fire safety in the design management and use of buildingsBS 9991 - Fire safety in the design management and use of buildings ResiBS 845 - Specification for ancillary components for masonry - Wall ties, tension straps, hangers and bracketsBS 8000 - 12 - Decoration and wall coveringsBS - EN 459 - Building LimeBS EN 998-2 - Specification for mortar for masonry
99
What are the benefits of a single ply membrane ?
```Benefits include :• Easy to install so in turn cheaper installation costs• Resistant to UV damage• Durable• Cheap to repair• Hardwearing• Various colour choices• Low maintenance• Recyclable• Longer lifespan```
100
What is the use or need for a vapour barrier in warm roof construction?
To stop the internal moist air moving into the insulation and roof covering section. (interstitial condensation)
101
How would you know if the proposed ventilation was suitable in terms of the requirements from approved documents?
I would references the required output in relation to the proposed ventilation looking at both approved document F - Ventilation and approved Doc C - Site preparation and resistance to contaminates and moisture.
102
What are some additional considerations in relation for a cold roof ?
* Floor to ceiling heights* External roof heights* Existing roof covering* Ceiling joists location* Cross ventilated cavity (to avoid interstitial condensation)
103
What is a flashing ?
Flashing is a sheet of thin, impervious material used to prevent water penetration or seepage into a building and to direct the flow of moisture in walls. Flashing is particularly important at junctions such as roof hips and valleys, joints between roofs and vertical walls, roof intersections or projections such as chimneys, dormers, vent pipes, window openings, and so on.There are two categories of flashing, exposed and embedded. Exposed flashings are partially exposed to the outside and usually made of a sheet metal, while embedded (or concealed) flashing can be metal or non-metal and are typically used at the base of cavity walls, above openings, at sills and shelf angles (a structural steel member that supports and transfers the brick’s dead load back to the building frame), and under copings.
104
What options are available for houses that cannot be connected to the main drains/sewers?
* Septic tanks* Rain water harvesting* Grey water irrigation
105
What is the first fix stage in construction?
First fix (sometimes described as shell and first fix ) is a short-hand term used to describe the processes that are undertaken during construction works up to the point of applying internal surfaces – typically plaster. It is normally used in relation to the work of specific trades such as carpenters, plumbers and electricians.Generally first fix will include constructing the structure, cladding, flooring, doorframes, stairs and so on and installing cables for electrical and ICT distribution, pipework for water and gas distribution and heating ventilating and air-conditioning (HVAC) distribution. First fix is not normally visible when looking at the finished building. Where possible first fix should be tested before second fix (for example, plumbing riser stacks).* Electrically – Installation of conduits and back boxes and pulling through cables ready for final connection.* Mechanical – pipe and duct work put down or run accordingly ready to be boxed in
106
What is the second fix stage in construction?
Second fix takes place after the internal surfaces have been applied. It comprises those items that are visible in a finished area and are held back to avoid damage, or sadly sometimes theft. This may include fitting internal doors, skirting, architraves, handrails, fixtures and fittings, including connection of appliances (such as electrical equipment, sanitaryware, radiators, and so on) testing and commissioning.Typically there will be a change of trades operating on the site, and a break in activity for some trades between first and second fix.* Electrically – Cable connections and closing of plugs and switches, installation of lights and sensors.* Mechanical – Mounting radiators, extending pipework to fixtures and fittings. Installation of ventilation.
107
What are the elements of a domestic heating and hot water system?
* Cold water storage* Expansion tank* Boiler* Hot water cylinder* Radiators
108
What are the elements of a domestic electric system?
* DB Board* Consumer unit* RCD - Residual-current device* MCB – Minatare circuit breaker
109
What are the typical distances between ceiling joists in a rafter and purlin roof?
400-450mm centres
110
What is the difference between a gable, hipped and mansard roof?
* Gable – Triangular end supporting the two slopes.* Hipped – all roof pitches meet at multiple or single ridge and slope down to all the walls.* Mansard Roof – Steep front face pitch with a shallow pitch/flat roof on top. Usually have dormer windows projecting through.
111
What is the difference between a jack rafter and a common rafter?
* A common rafter is any rafter extending between the exterior wall and the ridge.* A Jack rafter is a shorter secondary rafter used in the construction of a hipped roof
112
What considerations should you take when slating/tiling a roof?
Pitch of the roof. What the existing roof load was and if the existing timbers are strong enough.
113
What issues should be considered when replacing a flat roof?
* Age* Extent of repairs required* Access* Costs* Planning requirements* Use of the room* Insulation
114
What building regulation implications are there when carrying out roof refurbishments ?
Part L – Conservation of fuel and power - Comes into effect when 50% or more of the roof is being refurbished. The thermal efficiency also needs to be upgraded or meet current regulations as close as possible.
115
What are weep holes ?
Small openings in the outer wall of masonry construction and are found around openings aboveBrick and stone are porous materials and can absorb and store water. The inclusion of weep holes in masonry walls is intended to serve two purposes:Drainage: They provide an opening that allows the drainage of any moisture that may reach the back of a wall, or the inside leaf of a wall (such as a cavity in cavity wall construction) from the outside through penetration, capillary action, condensation, leakage or flooding.Ventilation: They allow ventilating air to the back of a wall to help prevent mildew, dry rot and damp which might otherwise reduce the life or performance of building materials such as cavity wall-ties, cavity insulation and so on.
116
What is the typical width of a cavity?
* Traditional cavity would be 50mm| * Modern cavities are 100mm but can be greater for better thermal efficiency.
117
What is the spacing between wall ties?
* 450mm vertically * 900mm horizontally* 300mm vertically from the vertical edges of all openings, movement joints and roof verges* 225mm horizontally from the vertical edges of all openings, movement joints and roof verges* Ref Approved Doc A – Structure – 2C8* BS EN 845-1
118
How would you identify cavity wall tie failure? Why does it occur and what are the remedies?
* Bowing walls* Horizontal cracking every 4 or 5 courses* Potential staining to the mortar* Failed ties are due to corrosion* BRE Digest 239
119
What is OSB? How is it different to plywood?
* Orientated Strand Board is formed by layering strands or flakes in specific directions and compressing the strands with resin.* Plywood is laminated layers of wood.* OSB is cheaper and can warp if exposed to moisture. Ply tends to hold nails better.
120
Describe two methods available to prevent penetration of water and moisture into basements ?
* Type A – Barrier Protection* Type B – Structurally Integral Protection* Type C – Drained Protection (Cavity Drain System)* BS 8102:2009
121
What typical issues are faced with steel framed houses?
Structural metal frame and a roof truss constructed of tubular metal with a shallow pitched asbestos roof and profile metal sheets. Usually bricked or rendered at ground floor. Mortgage providers tend not to prefer them. The steel frame can corrode. The ground floor slabs can crack. Metal lathing corrodes. Asbestos roof starts to deteriorate. The only way to confirm if the structure is sound is by opening it up. They are generally less energy efficient that timber and brick.
122
What are the comparatives between steel and concrete framed construction?
* Programme – Steel is quicker to erect and the reduced time on site reduces overheads.* Quality Control – Pre-fab of steel means better quality control to pouring concrete frames in situ. Offsite pre-fab increases the overall speed and improves safety.* Design Flexibility – Both can create large open column free spaces. Concrete can form any shape whereas steel is limited to how you can shape it.* Sustainability – steel is recyclable but concrete buildings are generally more energy efficient.* Cost – Steel is more expensive but programme savings may make up for this.
123
What is an underpinning sequence and why is it necessary ?
Underpinning requires removing the subsoil beneath the foundation and filling it with concrete. If it is done in one go over large spans, the structure will drop. Therefore, underpinning is carried out in sectional sequences so that the structure is still supported fully whilst the new concrete is poured and cures.
124
What are the different methods of construction between early 20th century house and modern house foundations, walls and roof.
* Foundations – 1900 house would have stepped brick. Modern house would have concrete strip.* Walls – 1900 house would be solid brick or have an uninsulated cavity. Modern house will have a cavity with minimum 100mm insulation.* Roof – 1900 house would have rafter and purlin roof or king/queen post with covering stone, slate or clay tiles. Modern house would probably have a trussed rafter pre-fab. Covered in a variety of materials depending on who owns the house.
125
What are strip foundations ?
A continuous strip of concrete supporting load-bearing walls. For a single storey building strip foundations will typically be 450mm wide and at least 200mm deep, and for two storey building 600mm wide and 200mm deep. Strip foundations are used to support a line of loads, either due to a load-bearing wall, or if a line of columns need supporting where column positions are so close that individual pad foundations would be inappropriate.
126
What is a raft foundation ?
A reinforced concrete raft or mat is used on very weak or expansive soils such as clays or peat. They allow the building to ‘float’ on or in the soil. A raft is used where the soil requires such a large bearing area that wide strip foundations are spread too far, making it more economical to pour one large reinforced concrete slab. A raft is an alternative to piles as it can be less expensive. Raft foundations are used to spread the load from a structure over a large area, normally the entire area of the structure. They are used when column loads, or other structural loads are close together and individual pad foundations would interact.
127
What is a pad foundation ?
Used when isolated loads need to be supported, for instance to support the columns of a steel or post and beam frame house. The load is concentrated on a small area.Pad foundations are used to support an individual point load such as that due to a structural column. They may be circular, square or rectangular. They usually consist of a block or slab of uniform thickness, but they may be stepped or hunched if they are required to spread the load from a heavy column. Pad foundations are usually shallow, but deep pad foundations can also be used.
128
What is a piled foundation ?
Pile foundations are deep foundations. They are formed by long, slender, columnar elements typically made from steel or reinforced concrete, or sometimes timber. A foundation is described as 'piled' when its depth is more than three times its breadth (ref. Atkinson, 2007).Pile foundations are principally used to transfer the loads from superstructures, through weak, compressible strata or water onto stronger, more compact, less compressible and stiffer soil or rock at depth, increasing the effective size of a foundation and resisting horizontal loads. They are typically used for large structures, and in situations where soil is not suitable to prevent excessive settlement.
129
What are the options for basement waterproofing?
* Type A System: Barrier Protection* Type B System: Structural Integral Protection* Type C System: Cavity Drainage System
130
What is a Type A System?
A Type A system uses a barrier protection geo-synthetic method typically applied during construction. E.g Bonded sheet membrane, liquid applied system, cementitious systems and crystallization powders and slurries.Three methods of application: External Applied, Sandwiched or Internal Applied.
131
What is a Type B System?
Type B systems rely on the structural integrity of the construction materials typically watertight concrete with a free water content at 0.45 or below.Low permeability concrete with good joint detailing.
132
What is a Type C System?
A type C system is known as a cavity drainage protection. Type C doesn't resist hydrostatic pressure like a type A & B but provides protection via water management using drainage channels and pumps.
133
What is substructure?
All structure below the superstructure i.e. all structure below the ground including the ground floor bed.
134
What is superstructure?
All internal and external structure above the substructure.
135
What are MMC ?
Although 'modern methods of construction' (MMC) is a 21st century term, it describes an approach to building properties more quickly, reliably and sustainably that has been developing over several decades.
136
What would the typical construction of a Victorian property be ?
* Solid brick walls,* Shallow strip foundations* Timber floor and roof joists* Timber roof structure and slate covering* Brick chimney stack* Bays windows* Timber windows
