wall_floor_roof_assemblies Flashcards
(26 cards)
What is the importance of wall and floor assemblies in planning?
They tie together acoustics, structure, sustainability, insulation, and layout; essential for transitioning from conceptual planning to detailed design.
How do wall and floor assemblies relate to acoustics?
They control sound transmission between spaces and to the exterior through material selection, spacing, and insulation.
What do wall assemblies help determine during early design?
Thermal performance, moisture control, fire rating, acoustics, structural capacity, and aesthetics.
What is a key moisture concern for exterior wall assemblies?
Whether the wall needs to shed water, based on exposure, overhangs, and climate.
How does a temperate climate affect wall assembly design?
Requires balancing insulation and vapor barriers to retain heat in winter and cool in summer.
What’s the main concern in wall assemblies for a cold climate?
Minimizing heat loss and correctly placing vapor barriers and insulation.
What’s the main concern in hot, humid climates for wall assemblies?
Promoting air movement and preventing condensation while allowing seasonal cooling.
What is the strategy in hot, arid climates for wall design?
Using thermal mass (e.g., adobe or concrete) as a heat sink to regulate day/night temperatures.
How does use intensity affect wall durability needs?
High-traffic areas (e.g., schools) require durable finishes like CMU; low-traffic can use drywall.
What is the aesthetic concern with durable materials like CMU?
Avoiding a prison-like appearance while maintaining functionality.
What determines if a wall or floor needs a fire rating?
Its role in protecting egress paths, separating occupancies, or containing fire/smoke.
How are STC and IIC ratings used?
STC (Sound Transmission Class) measures airborne sound between spaces; IIC (Impact Insulation Class) measures structure-borne sound through floors.
What role does fenestration play in wall assembly?
It impacts solar gain, insulation performance, visual aesthetics, and water/air control.
What are tolerance issues in wall assemblies?
Material expansion/contraction, especially between different systems like curtain walls and masonry, requiring joints or flexible seals.
What is the difference between a partition and a bearing wall?
Partitions are non-structural interior walls; bearing walls carry loads from floors/roofs.
What’s a key trait of fire-rated partitions?
They extend from the floor slab to the underside of the structural slab above.
Is a curtain wall typically structural?
No, curtain walls are non-load-bearing and attach to the building frame.
What makes floor durability especially critical?
Floors bear weight, foot traffic, rolling carts, and furniture; they must withstand constant use.
Why are floor penetrations a major concern?
They can compromise fire ratings and lead to water damage if not sealed properly.
Why is the reflected ceiling plan (RCP) important?
It shows lighting, ductwork, sprinklers, and utility coordination, especially in office settings.
What is the NRC and why does it matter in ceilings?
Noise Reduction Coefficient; measures how well surfaces absorb sound to control interior acoustics.
Why is insulation especially important in roof assemblies?
Roofs are primary points of heat loss/gain; insulation impacts overall energy efficiency.
What durability factors impact roof design?
Climate conditions like snow, rain, sun, and UV exposure require material resistance.
What is emissivity in roofing?
It’s the material’s ability to reflect or emit heat, affecting urban heat island and energy codes.
