structural_systems Flashcards
(20 cards)
What are the three span categories to consider when selecting a structural system?
Short span, medium span, long span
What types of buildings typically use short span systems?
Houses, small offices, light renovations
What is the typical range for short spans?
8 to 20 feet (sometimes up to 22 feet with enhancements)
Which structural systems are commonly used for short spans?
Wood framing, light gauge steel framing, heavy timber
What is platform framing also referred to as?
Balloon framing or stick-built construction
What are typical spacing intervals for studs in wood or metal framing?
16 inches or 24 inches on center
Why are studs commonly spaced at 16 or 24 inches on center?
They align with 4-foot modules for plywood and drywall
What is a diaphragm in structural framing?
A structural sheathing (like plywood or OSB) that resists lateral loads and prevents walls from parallelogramming
Where are diaphragms typically located in a building?
At the wall corners and across floor surfaces (subfloors)
What is the role of the subfloor in a platform-framed building?
Acts as a diaphragm that transfers lateral loads and ties joists together
What structural benefit does heavy timber provide during a fire?
Charring protects the core of the beam, preserving structural integrity longer
Why might concrete be avoided in some local markets despite its advantages?
High costs due to formwork, curing time, and limited contractor availability
What structural material is often used when aesthetics are not a priority and cost is important?
Steel (wide flange beams)
Why are long spans (e.g., 60-90 feet) more expensive?
Require specialized materials and structural systems, increasing labor and material costs
What load implications must be considered when choosing a structural system?
Live load types (office, residential, manufacturing, warehouse) and concentrated equipment loads
Why might you choose to build with light gauge steel studs?
Similar construction method as wood but made from recycled steel, often used in commercial interiors
What is the purpose of the double top plate in wood framing?
Adds rigidity and ties adjacent stud segments together for better load transfer
What defines a structural system’s cost effectiveness?
Balance between span length, material cost, labor cost, and program requirements
Why is redundancy important in short span wood framing systems?
Allows the system to maintain structural integrity even if one member fails
What does OSB stand for and where is it commonly used?
Oriented Strand Board, used as wall sheathing and subfloor material
